These instructions apply to the Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG) 2000-2007.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
The second-generation Impreza (GD saloon / GG wagon, 2000–2007) registers its keyless-entry remotes through a pair of registration connectors hidden behind the driver’s side sill trim — not by cycling the ignition as some other Subarus do. Use this to re-register your existing remotes or add a spare. Up to three transmitters can be stored per car.
This procedure registers the keyless-entry remote (the lock/unlock buttons). A brand-new ignition key also has to be coded to the engine immobiliser before it will start the car, which is a separate job that needs dealer or locksmith equipment. Registering the remote does not code the immobiliser.
What you’ll need
- All the remotes you want the car to recognise (you must register the full set in one session)
- A trim tool to release the driver’s side sill cover
Register the remotes
- Remove the driver’s side sill cover and locate the two registration connectors at the lower section of the front pillar. Connect them together.
- Push the driver’s door-lock switch to UNLOCK so the doors unlock.
- Holding the door-lock switch at UNLOCK, press any button on the remote twice.
- The door locks will cycle — locking and unlocking in sequence by themselves. That confirms the first remote is registered.
- To add a second and third remote, repeat steps 3 and 4 with each one while the connectors are still joined.
- When all remotes are done, disconnect the registration connectors. Test each remote, then refit the sill cover.
Registering a fresh set overwrites the stored codes, so a lost remote is automatically dropped when you re-register only the remotes you still have.
Frequently asked questions
How many remotes can a GD/GG Impreza hold? Three.
Where are the registration connectors? Behind the driver’s side sill cover, at the lower part of the front pillar — two connectors you join together to put the car into registration mode.
The door locks didn’t cycle after I pressed the button twice. Make sure the registration connectors are properly joined and that you are holding the driver’s lock switch at UNLOCK while pressing the remote. If the remote’s LED doesn’t light at all, change its battery first.
Will this let a new key start the car? No — that requires immobiliser coding of the key, which is a dealer/locksmith job. This only registers the remote’s lock/unlock function.
Looking up a warning light or trouble code on your Subaru? Our sister site autodtcs.com covers diagnostic trouble codes.
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