If you've noticed your car isn't unlocking from across the parking lot anymore, it's probably time to swap out your 2014 subaru crosstrek key fob battery before it quits on you entirely. There's nothing more annoying than standing in the rain or a cold parking garage, clicking that button repeatedly, only for nothing to happen. We've all been there, and honestly, it's one of those small maintenance tasks that we tend to put off until the very last second.
The good news is that you don't need to head to the dealership and pay them fifty bucks for something you can do yourself in about three minutes. It's a straightforward fix that requires zero mechanical skills and just a couple of dollars for a new battery. Let's break down how to get this done so you can get back to your day without the stress of a non-responsive key.
Recognizing the signs of a dying battery
Usually, these fobs don't just die out of nowhere. They give you a few warnings first, though they can be easy to miss if you're in a rush. One of the first things you'll notice is a significant drop in range. If you used to be able to lock your Crosstrek from your front door but now you have to be standing right next to the driver's side window, your 2014 subaru crosstrek key fob battery is definitely on its last legs.
Another common sign is inconsistency. Maybe it works on the first click one time, but then takes three or four tries the next. If the little red LED light on the fob looks dim or doesn't light up at all when you press a button, that's your smoking gun. Subaru remotes are pretty reliable, but those little coin-style batteries only have so much juice in them, especially after nearly a decade of use.
What battery do you actually need?
Before you crack the fob open, you need to make sure you have the right replacement. Most 2014 Subaru Crosstreks use one of two types of fobs depending on whether you have a traditional turn-key ignition or a push-button start system.
If you have the standard key where the remote is built into the head of the metal key, you're most likely looking for a CR1620 battery. If you have the "Smart Key" or the keyless entry/push-button start fob (the one that stays in your pocket), it usually takes a CR2032.
I'd always suggest double-checking the battery that's currently inside your fob before you buy a new one, just to be 100% sure. You can find these batteries at just about any grocery store, pharmacy, or hardware store. They're usually in the section with the watch batteries or near the checkout counters. If you want to save a few bucks, buying a multipack online is usually the way to go since you'll probably need another one in a few years anyway.
Tools you'll want to have handy
You don't need a full toolbox for this, but having a couple of things nearby will make it way easier. A small flathead screwdriver is your best friend here. If you have one of those tiny screwdrivers used for repairing eyeglasses, that works perfectly.
If you're worried about scratching the plastic casing of your fob, you can wrap the tip of the screwdriver in a thin piece of cloth or even a bit of Scotch tape. Some people use a guitar pick or a sturdy plastic pry tool, which is even safer for the finish. You'll also want a clean workspace—a kitchen table or a desk is better than doing this over grass or a shag carpet where a tiny screw or clip could disappear forever.
Stepping through the replacement process
Alright, let's get into the actual work. If you have the integrated key (the one with the buttons on the key head), look for a tiny screw on the back. You'll need to remove that first. Once the screw is out, you can gently pry the two halves of the plastic case apart. There's usually a small notch on the side specifically designed for this.
If you have the keyless entry fob (the rectangular one), it's even easier. You don't have a screw to deal with. First, find the small silver release button on the back and pull out the emergency metal key. Once that's out, look at the slot where the key was. You'll see a little gap. Put your flathead screwdriver in there and give it a gentle twist. The case should pop open without much effort.
Once you're inside, you'll see the circuit board and the battery. Carefully pop the old 2014 subaru crosstrek key fob battery out. Pay close attention to which way it's facing! Most of the time, the positive (+) side—the side with the writing on it—faces up.
Putting it all back together
Slide the new battery into the slot. You want to make sure it's seated firmly and that the metal contact tabs are actually touching the battery. If those tabs look a bit flat, you can very gently (and I mean very gently) lift them up a tiny bit to ensure a good connection.
Now, just snap the two halves of the fob back together. If it's the key-style fob, put that tiny screw back in. If it's the smart fob, just press the edges together until you hear a satisfying click all the way around. Slide your emergency key back in, and you're basically done.
The best part? You usually don't have to do any fancy "reprogramming" or "syncing" after changing the battery. Your Crosstrek should recognize the signal immediately. Go out to the driveway and give it a test click. If the lights flash and the doors lock, you're golden.
Troubleshooting common issues
If you've swapped the battery and it still isn't working, don't panic. First, check the orientation of the battery again. It's incredibly easy to accidentally flip it over. Even the best of us do it.
If the orientation is right, check the battery itself. Sometimes batteries sit on store shelves for years and lose their charge, or you might have just gotten a "dud." If you have a multimeter, you can check the voltage, but otherwise, trying a second battery from the pack is a quick way to rule that out.
Another thing to look for is dirt or gunk inside the fob. Over the years, pocket lint and dust can get inside and interfere with the buttons. If things look gross in there, take a Q-tip with a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol and gently clean the contact points on the circuit board and the rubber buttons. Just make sure everything is completely dry before you close it back up.
Why it's worth doing yourself
Beyond just saving money, knowing how to change your 2014 subaru crosstrek key fob battery gives you some peace of mind. It's one less thing to worry about when you're heading out on a road trip or just trying to get through a busy week. Plus, once you know how to do it for your Subaru, you'll realize that almost every car key fob works in a similar way. You'll be the hero of the family when your spouse or kids have a dead remote.
It's also a good reminder to check your spare key. Most people forget about the second set of keys tucked away in a drawer until they actually need them. Batteries drain over time even when they aren't being used, so it's a smart move to replace the battery in your spare at the same time. That way, if you ever lose your main key, you aren't stuck with a dead backup.
Final thoughts on maintenance
The 2014 Crosstrek is a hardy little car, but it's the small things like a dead remote that can really sour the ownership experience. Taking ten minutes to handle this little task ensures your car stays as convenient as it was the day you bought it.
So, next time you notice you have to be right on top of the car for the doors to unlock, don't wait. Grab a screwdriver, pick up a fresh battery, and knock it out. It's a simple win for the day, and your Subaru will thank you for it by actually opening its doors when you ask it to.