Subaru FORESTER 5th Generation 2019-2024 Keyless Access with Push-Button Start System Car Owner Manuals

Subaru FORESTER 5th Generation 2019-2024 Keyless Access with Push-Button Start System

Keyless Access with Push-Button Start System

The access key should not be left in areas such as the glove box, seat, door pocket, cargo area, or within 6.6 ft (2 m) around the vehicle (e.g., in the garage). The key may be locked inside or the battery may discharge rapidly. The push-button ignition may not turn on depending on key location.

Precautions

• Although you can replace the battery yourself, it is recommended to have a SUBARU dealer replace it to avoid damage.
• Do not get the access key wet; wipe and dry immediately if wet.
• Avoid strong impacts to the key.
• Keep the key away from magnetic sources.
• Never leave the key in direct sunlight or hot areas like the dashboard.
• Do not wash the key in an ultrasonic washer.
• Do not leave the key in humid or dusty locations.
• Do not place the key near computers or home appliances.
• If the key is dropped, the mechanical key inside may become loose.
• Do not press buttons while on an airplane; secure the key in a bag to prevent accidental button presses.

NOTE: Operational/non-operational setting for keyless access can be changed via “Disabling keyless access function” F2-17 or by a SUBARU dealer. For push-button ignition operation when keyless access is non-operational, refer to “Access key – if access key does not operate properly” F9-17.

Radio Wave Interference

Keyless access uses weak radio waves. Interference may occur in the following conditions:

• Near strong radio wave facilities like broadcast stations or power lines
• When other vehicle keys or remote transmitters are nearby
• Near wireless devices such as cell phones or metallic objects
• Battery discharged or electronic appliances nearby

Battery life is approximately 1–2 years. If lost, remaining keys should be reregistered. Up to 7 access keys can be registered. Store the key number plate carefully.

Steering Lock Initialization

1. Turn push-button ignition switch to “OFF”.
2. Open and close the driver’s door.
3. Wait ~10 seconds until the steering is locked.

Locking and Unlocking with Keyless Access

Operating Ranges: Approximately 16–32 in (40–80 cm) from door handles and rear gate ornament. LED flashes when key is detected in range.

Operating Tips

• Locking/unlocking works only when key is detected within range of door handle or lock sensor.
• Key too close to vehicle body may cause malfunction; repeat operation from a distance.
• Elevated or ground-level positioning may reduce functionality.
• Anyone in range may operate the system; only handles, lock sensors, rear gate opener, or rear lock button work within range.
• Key inside vehicle may prevent locking; ensure you have the key before locking.
• Strong radio waves or phone usage may reduce range; see “Locking and unlocking” F9-17.
• Wet door handles may prevent proper operation.

How to Use Keyless Access

• Locking requires push-button ignition switch off; cannot lock when in “ACC” or “ON”.
• Gloved hands may prevent unlocking.
• Touching the sensor three times or more may be ignored.
• Locking too quickly may not complete; pull rear door handle to confirm.
• Doors can be locked even if one is open; close afterward to lock.
• Within 3 seconds after locking, cannot unlock via keyless access.
• Always carry the access key to prevent lockout.
• Hazard warning flasher operation and audible signal volume can be adjusted by a SUBARU dealer. Multi-function display models can set via display; see “Hazard warning flasher setting” F3-82.

Unlocking

Carry the access key and grip the door handle:

• Driver’s door handle: unlocks driver’s door only.
• Front passenger’s handle: unlocks all doors including rear gate. Electronic chirp sounds twice; hazard flashers flash twice.

Opening Rear Gate

1. Rear gate opener button: Carry access key and press button; only rear gate unlocks. Electronic chirp and hazard flashers activate twice.

Locking with Door Lock Sensor

1. Door lock sensor: Carry key, close all doors and rear gate, touch sensor. All doors and rear gate lock; chirp sounds once, hazard flashers flash once.

NOTE: If you touch the sensor again without unlocking first, nothing happens; unlock once then lock.

Locking with Rear Lock Button

1. Rear lock button: Carry key, close all doors including rear gate, press button. All doors and rear gate lock; chirp sounds once, hazard flashers flash once.

Power Saving Function

Keyless access disables to protect battery in these cases:

• Case 1: Not used for 2+ weeks with all doors locked. Recovery: Turn ignition to “ON”, unlock doors via other methods, lock doors, or open/close a door.
• Case 2: Key left in operating range 10+ minutes with all doors locked. Recovery: Unlock via handle, rear gate opener, touch lock sensor, remote system, power switch, or open front door.

Door Unlock Selection Function

Additional door unlock settings are available. For full details, refer to the vehicle manual section F9-17.