Why wont my Subaru key open the door?
As a Subaru owner, it can be frustrating when your key suddenly stops working to unlock your car door. This issue can arise for several reasons, ranging from simple fixes to more complex problems. In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes and provide actionable solutions to help you get back on the road.
Common Reasons Your Subaru Key Won’t Open the Door
There are several potential reasons why your Subaru key might not be working. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward resolving the issue. Here are the most common culprits:
- Dead Key Fob Battery: If you’re using a key fob, the most likely reason is a dead or weak battery. Over time, the battery in your key fob can lose its charge, preventing it from sending the signal to unlock your car.
- Mechanical Key Issues: If you’re using a traditional key, wear and tear on the key itself or the lock mechanism can cause problems. Dirt, debris, or corrosion in the lock can also prevent the key from turning.
- Faulty Key Fob Programming: Sometimes, the key fob may lose its programming due to a glitch or after a battery replacement. This can prevent it from communicating with your car’s locking system.
- Car Battery Problems: If your Subaru’s battery is dead or very low, the electronic locking system may not function properly, even if your key fob is working fine.
- Damaged Lock Actuator: The lock actuator is the component that physically locks and unlocks the door. If it’s damaged or malfunctioning, your key may not work as expected.
How to Fix the Problem
Once you’ve identified the potential cause, you can take steps to resolve the issue. Here’s what you can do:
- Replace the Key Fob Battery: If the battery is dead, replace it with a new one. Most Subaru key fobs use a standard coin cell battery, which you can find at most hardware or electronics stores. Be sure to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for replacing the battery.
- Clean the Lock Mechanism: If you suspect dirt or debris is causing the issue, use a lock lubricant or compressed air to clean the lock. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract more dirt over time.
- Reprogram the Key Fob: If the key fob has lost its programming, you may need to reprogram it. This process varies by model, so consult your Subaru’s owner’s manual or visit a professional locksmith or dealership for assistance.
- Check the Car Battery: If your car battery is low or dead, jump-start the vehicle or replace the battery. Once the car has power, test the key fob again.
- Inspect the Lock Actuator: If none of the above solutions work, the lock actuator may need to be repaired or replaced. This is a more complex repair that typically requires professional assistance.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the above solutions and your Subaru key still won’t open the door, it’s time to seek professional help. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing car lock and key issues. Whether it’s a faulty key fob, a damaged lock actuator, or something else entirely, our experienced technicians can get to the bottom of the problem and provide a reliable fix.
Don’t let a stubborn car door ruin your day. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get back on the road with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my car key not opening?
Car key sensor is not working: If the key is not working at all, it may be due to the drained battery, faulty fob, low car battery, or faulty keyless entry system (if applicable). You can try replacing the fob batteries, diagnosing the fob or towing the vehicle to a service centre to fix the issue.
Why won't my Subaru key unlock my car?
The Key Won't Unlock the Door Remotely. Pressing the button on your key fob, only to be met with a still-locked car, may mean that the key has a dead battery. If you just have keyless entry, this can be a major nuisance, and you may want to get the battery placed soon.
Why is my Subaru not letting me turn the key?
A key that won't turn in the ignition could be due to the steering wheel lock. An oft-overlooked feature on most modern cars, the steering wheel lock is another anti-theft measure. If you turn the wheel on a car with the key removed from the ignition, the steering wheel will eventually lock in place.
Why is my key not opening my door?
This is the most common reason why a key might not work. You can try replacing the battery and see if that fixes the problem. The key is damaged. If the key is bent or broken, it may not be able to fit into the lock properly. You can try using a spare key or having a new key made. The lock is damaged.
Why is my Subaru door not opening?
Faulty wiring or loose connections can disrupt the power supply to the door locks. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connections. Repair or replace damaged wires and ensure all connections are secure. If the door locks still don't work correctly, test the door lock switches on both the driver and passenger sides.
Why is my automatic door not unlocking?
Simply replacing the batteries should solve the problem. If that doesn't work, there could be an issue with the electrical system. A loose wire or corroded connection could prevent the signal from reaching the lock actuators. Another possibility is that the actuators themselves are damaged.
Why is my car door not unlocking with a key?
Some common reasons behind your manual car key not working are a damaged lock cylinder, a worn-out key, a contaminated key hole, and a car lock needing lubricant. To unlock your car door without a key, you can try using a slim jim, creating space using an inflatable door wedge, or pulling the lock with a shoestring.
Why is my car key not unlocking my car?
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a remote car key not working. Over time, the battery in your key fob will naturally lose its charge, leading to a loss of functionality.
Why is my Subaru not responding to my key?
You will need to resolve the battery issue first and then go from there. Once the battery is charged or replaced depending on what needs to be done, the key fobs may start working once again. If not, the key fives may need to be reprogrammed or initialized once again after the main battery issue has been resolved.
Why is my key fob not unlocking my car?
The most common culprit behind an electric key fob's failure is, as you might guess, the battery. This is a relatively easy issue to fix, although you may need to get a ride to get to buy a replacement fob battery.
