Blog

This guide is for reprogramming your Subaru Forester 1999-2008 keyless entry system.

I had a Forester 2001 & 2003 at the same time, so whilst testing the two vehicles I was able to figure out they shared a lot of common parts, as well as the keyless entry system being very similar.
I was able to reprogram a Subaru Forester GT 2001 key with my Subaru Forester XT 2003.
nb. The Foz 2001 key now opens/closes the 2003 XT but you need to buy a replacement shell with a blank key. The blank key needs to be cut to suit your XT and the transponder from the GT needs to be moved across to it.

Below are the steps required to reprogram your key fobs.
1. Unlock car with working remote
2. Take off drivers kick panel, join the two white connectors.
3. Take a seat.
4. (models without ‘door unlock’ button on drivers door)
Press lock twice on your remote. You will hear the doors locks open and close.
4. (models with ‘door unlock’ button  on drivers door’)
Hold down the ‘door unlock’ button on the drivers door and whilst keeping it held down press lock twice on your remote. You will hear the doors locks open and close. You can now release your finger from the ‘door unlock’ button.
5. To program additional remotes repeat step 4
6. Disconnect the two white connectors
7. Re-install the drivers kick panel.
8. Get out of car, close your door.

Check this video for an outline of the steps above in this Reprogram Subaru Forester Key guide.