2015–2019 BS (5th generation)
2015–2019 Subaru Outback Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob takes a CR1620 (2015–2016 flip-key remotes); CR2032 on later push-button-start Limited/Touring smart keys. Check which key your trim uses coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
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Quick answer
The 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob takes a CR1620 (2015–2016 flip-key remotes); CR2032 on later push-button-start Limited/Touring smart keys. Check which key your trim uses coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob battery
- Pry the fob open gently at the seam with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, working around the edge. Many fobs have a hidden release slot near the key ring or emergency-key blade.
- Note the battery orientation (usually positive side up) before removing the old cell.
- Avoid touching the new battery's faces with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten its life.
- If the fob doesn't work after replacement, check that the battery is seated fully and the contacts weren't bent. Most vehicles do not need re-pairing after a battery change.
Which Subaru Outback model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Subaru Outback built from 2015 through 2019 — the BS (5th generation), mid-size wagon/crossover. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback
- 2015Full redesign: all-new FB25, 3.6R moves to CVT, EyeSight driver-assist available for the first time on Outback
- 2018Facelift: revised front/rear styling, updated Starlink infotainment, standard EyeSight on most trims
- 2019Final year of this generation; last model year covered by the FB-engine oil-consumption settlement window
2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob take?
- A single CR1620 (2015–2016 flip-key remotes); CR2032 on later push-button-start Limited/Touring smart keys. Check which key your trim uses coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob?
- This fob takes a CR1620 (2015–2016 flip-key remotes); CR2032 on later push-button-start Limited/Touring smart keys. Check which key your trim uses, so start there. The two cells share a 20 mm diameter but differ in thickness, and the thicker one does not always seat in a housing built for the thinner.
How do you open a 2015–2019 Subaru Outback key fob?
- Slide out the mechanical emergency key first, which usually releases a catch, then part the halves with a plastic pry tool or a coin wrapped in tape. A screwdriver will mark the case and can crack the seam.
Sources
- sportsubarusouth.com, Subaru Outback oil type by model year
- AMSOIL lookup, 2019 Outback 2.5L FB25 oil spec/capacity
- awdadventure.com, Subaru Outback tire fitment by year (2015–2019)
- Rohnert Park Transmission, Subaru Outback CVT problems guide by model year
- Subaru Battery Settlement, official settlement site (2015–2020 Outback coverage)
- Consumer Reports, 2015 Subaru Outback reliability (CVT complaint)
- classaction.org, Subaru windshield settlement given preliminary approval (Khona/Powell case background)
- Reddit r/subaru, 2019–2020 CVT warranty extension to 10 yr/100k thread