Which Subaru Models does this Subaru Forester Replacement Key guide apply to?
If you have a Subaru Forester between 1999-2008 with a faulty keyless entry, there is a way to restore it without paying for a brand new replacement key.
Follow this guide if your keyless entry no longer works; If the button does not press down, doors do not unlock or there is physical damage.
The three parts to the key
– Key stem (What is inserted into the barrel/locks)
– Wireless keyless entry transmitter (for opening/closing the doors of your Subaru)
– Transponder (for turning the car on and off).
Wireless Transmitters
Between years 1999-2008, all the wireless transmitters are interchangeable, you can program a wireless transmitter one from one car, to work with another. This means you can buy a key from a junkyard, and reprogram it to suit your car.
Wireless Transponders
Please note that we will not be touching the transponder in this subaru forester replacement key guide, as that will need to be reprogrammed using a specialized tool.
Please note that we will not be touching the transponder in this replacement key guide, as that will need to be reprogrammed using a specialized tool.
Perform the following steps
- Find your donor key with a working transmitter & buttons that press down nicely. Junkyard, eBay, forums, etc
- Remove the single screw holding the donor key together & remove the transmitter
- Remove the single screw holding your faulty key together & remove the transmitter
- Swap transmitters over from donor key to faulty key
- Follow the guide Reprogram subaru forester key
Subaru Forester Replacement Key applicable models
Subaru Forester SF
Year Range: 1999-2002
Models: GX, Limited, Special Edition, GT, Base, S, L, Premium
Automatic & Manual
Subaru Forester SG
Year Range: 2003-2008
Models: X, XS, XT, Sports, Premium, L.L Bean Edition, XT Limited
Automatic & Manual