What year did Subaru start keyless entry?
Subaru first offered remote keyless entry in 1998, starting with select Legacy and Outback models in the U.S. market. Since then, the feature has spread across the lineup and evolved into more advanced keyless access systems in many trims.
Origins of Subaru’s keyless entry
Remote keyless entry (RKE) uses a key fob to remotely lock, unlock, and sometimes arm the vehicle's alarm. Subaru's foray into factory-installed RKE began in 1998 on select Legacy and Outback models in the U.S. market, ahead of many rivals. The feature gradually expanded to additional models and trims in subsequent years.
Milestones in Subaru's keyless entry adoption
The following milestones show when Subaru introduced and expanded keyless entry across its vehicles.
- 1998 model year: Remote keyless entry offered on select Legacy and Outback models in the U.S., marking Subaru's first factory RKE option.
- Early 2000s: Remote keyless entry becomes available on more trims and models as Subaru broadens its lineup.
- Mid-2000s: Push-button start or "Smart Key" capable systems begin appearing on higher-end trims across several models.
- 2010s onward: Keyless access systems (Smart Key/Push-Button Start) become common across new Subaru models, though availability varies by market and trim.
These milestones illustrate a gradual progression from a niche convenience to a standard feature across Subaru's vehicles, with ongoing refinements and market-specific variations.
Current state of Subaru keyless entry
Today, most new Subaru models offer some form of keyless entry, and many trims include push-button start and Smart Key interfaces as standard or widely available options. Features can vary by market, trim level, and model year.
Summary
Subaru first introduced remote keyless entry in 1998 on select Legacy and Outback models. Over the next two decades, the feature expanded across the lineup and evolved into smarter keyless access systems with push-button start, becoming common across many models by the 2010s. While exact features and availability vary by market and trim, keyless entry remains a standard convenience in modern Subaru vehicles.
Which Subaru models have keyless entry?
Find Your Next Subaru with Keyless Ignition in Normal, IL
- Subaru Crosstrek.
- Subaru Outback.
- Subaru Forester Hybrid.
- Subaru Forester.
- Subaru Ascent.
- Subaru Legacy.
- Subaru Impreza.
- Subaru WRX.
How long has Subaru had remote start?
Discover The 2023 Subaru Outback Remote Start Feature
Generally speaking, every Subaru Outback model produced in 2015 and beyond provides remote start capability. Further, if your Outback is equipped with a keyfob–most newer models are–you can use that to remote start your Subaru, as well.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
The worst years for Subaru Outback include 2010–2014 and 2017–2020 due to major issues like airbag defects, engine failure, CVT transmission problems, electrical faults, and frequent windshield cracks.
What year did Subaru go keyless?
What models have Keyless Access and Push Button Start? All 2015 and later Subaru models offer it as an option on higher trim levels. If you're looking for a used Subaru, it was introduced incrementally: 2013: Outback, BRZ.
