Can I drive my Subaru without the key fob?
Generally, you cannot drive a Subaru that uses keyless ignition without the key fob present. A working fob or a properly paired spare is usually required. Some models offer emergency start options if the fob is dead or missing, but the availability and procedure depend on the year and trim of your vehicle.
Details vary by model and generation. In practice, the key fob (or a spare) must be detected by the car for push-button start to work, and a dead or absent fob may prevent you from starting the engine. If you’ve lost your fob or the fob battery is dead, you’ll typically need to obtain a replacement or use dealer-assisted services to regain access and starting capability.
How Subaru's keyless system generally works
Subaru models equipped with Keyless Access and Push Button Start rely on a detected fob to authorize starting and driving. The system immobilizes the engine if a valid fob isn’t detected inside or near the vehicle, preventing the car from starting. The exact method to start or unlock the doors can differ between model years and trims, so consult your owner’s manual for the precise steps.
Here are the common conditions under which a Subaru with keyless ignition will start and drive, and what to do if you don’t have the fob.
- The key fob must be detected in or near the vehicle for push-button start to work.
- The fob’s internal battery should be functioning so it can communicate with the car.
- A valid, paired fob is required; if no valid fob is detected, the engine will not start.
- In some models, there is an emergency or backup method to start the car if the fob battery is dead, but the procedure and availability vary by model and year.
- A physical key blade is usually used to unlock the doors; it does not automatically start the engine in most push-button Subaru systems.
In short, ensure you have a working key fob present in or near the vehicle for normal operation. If you don’t, you may not be able to start or drive the car.
What to do if you don’t have the fob or it’s not working
If you don’t have the fob, or the fob battery is dead and you can’t start the car, you’ll typically need to pursue one of these options. The exact steps can depend on your model and location, so check your owner’s manual or contact Subaru support for model-specific guidance.
- Use the spare physical key if your fob contains one and you have access to its mechanical key blade to unlock the doors. Note that starting the car still often requires the fob signal.
- Call Subaru Roadside Assistance or your insurance’s roadside service for help with lockout, fob replacement, or jump-start needs.
- Visit a Subaru dealership or authorized service center with proof of ownership (driver’s license, vehicle registration, and VIN) to obtain a replacement key fob and have it programmed to your car.
- Prepare for potential costs and lead times for programming a new fob, as well as any required vehicle diagnostics.
Dealers can typically supply and program a new fob, re-link it to your vehicle’s immobilizer, and help you regain driving capability. If you’re stranded, roadside assistance is the fastest route to temporary access or a temporary solution while you arrange a replacement.
Bottom line and safety considerations
For most Subarus with push-button start, you should assume you need a functioning key fob to drive. If the fob is lost or dead, don’t attempt to bypass the system; instead contact a dealer or roadside service to obtain a proper replacement and ensure the immobilizer is correctly programmed. Driving without a valid fob is not recommended and could be illegal in some jurisdictions.
Summary
- Keyless Subarus generally require the fob to be present to start and drive. A spare or replacement fob is the reliable path back to driving.
- If the fob is missing or its battery is dead, consult your owner’s manual for model-specific emergency start procedures and contact Subaru support or a dealer for replacement keys and programming.
- A physical key blade may help with door access, but starting the car without a valid fob is typically not possible in most modern Subarus.
