Subaru WRX key fob battery

Separate remote fob

1. This remote is its own fob, separate from the metal key, which makes it one of the easier ones to open.
2. Turn it over: some older fobs use one small screw, newer ones just clip. Pry at the seam once any screw is out.
3. Replace the cell, keeping the + side where it was, and check the small metal tab still touches it.
4. Close the fob and test it. If it does not work, open it again and check the cell is seated flat.

A CR2025 is 20 mm across and 2.5 mm thick. CR2032, CR2025 and CR2016 share the same width but not the same thickness, so a swap between them can leave a loose contact or a case that will not close.

Key with remote in the head

1. This type has the buttons built into the key head. The cell is inside that head, between two clipped halves.
2. Find the seam around the head. Twist a coin or small flat screwdriver in the notch at the blade end or side until the halves part.
3. Inside you may find a small circuit board in a tray. Lift the board out if the cell is underneath, swap the cell with the same side up, and refit the board.
4. Close the head, check there is no gap, and try the buttons.

A CR1620 is 16 mm across and 2.0 mm thick. It is easy to confuse with the 20 mm CR20xx sizes, which will not fit.

Smart key (push-button start)

1. Find the small release on the edge or back of the fob and hold it while you pull out the metal emergency key.
2. Use the slot where the metal key sat. Twist, do not lever hard, and work along the seam until the halves separate.
3. Pop the old battery out with a toothpick or plastic pick, not a metal blade, and seat the new one with the + side matching the old one.
4. Snap the halves back together, slide the metal key home, and press each button, then try the start button from the driver's seat.

Subaru access keys usually hide an emergency key; with it out, the cover opens at the slot.

A CR2032 is 20 mm across and 3.2 mm thick. CR2032, CR2025 and CR2016 share the same width but not the same thickness, so a swap between them can leave a loose contact or a case that will not close.