Replace the Key Fob Battery

A short key range or a remote that only works up close usually means a flat fob battery on the first-generation Subaru XV (GP, 2012–2017). The remote and the keyless-access key both take a single CR1620 coin cell, and you can change it in a couple of minutes with a small flat-blade screwdriver.

How to replace the XV key fob battery

1. Slide out the mechanical key blade, then gently prise the key head apart at the seam with a flat-blade screwdriver wrapped in tape to protect the case.
2. Lift the transmitter circuit board and its case out of the key head.
3. Release the retaining hooks and split the transmitter case to expose the coin cell.
4. Remove the old CR1620 and fit the new one with the negative (−) side facing up, taking care not to touch the contacts or the board.
5. Clip the transmitter case back together, refit it into the key head, and press the two halves of the head together until they click.
6. Resynchronise the remote by pressing the lock or unlock button six times.

If the buttons still do nothing, re-open the fob and check the cell is seated the right way up and making firm contact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What battery does a Subaru XV (GP) key fob use?

A CR1620 3-volt lithium coin cell, for both the standard remote and the keyless-access key. Some older Subaru remotes use a CR2025 — check the cell you remove and replace it with the same size.

Which way up does the battery go?

Negative (−) side up in the XV fob. Fitting it upside down is the most common reason a freshly-changed fob still doesn’t work.

Do I have to reprogram the key after changing the battery?

No reprogramming is needed — just press lock or unlock six times to resynchronise the remote with the car. The mechanical blade still locks and unlocks the driver’s door if the remote ever fails.

If replacing the battery doesn’t restore remote operation and a warning appears, decode any stored code on autodtcs.com.