Auto User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry

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2023 Subaru Forester Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry system

The 2023 Subaru Forester sports cutting-edge remote keyless entry and immobilizer technology that perfectly balances convenience and security. The purpose of the immobilizer is to hinder efforts at theft by requiring a specially programmed key or fob to start the car. In addition, the Remote Keyless Entry feature makes it simple for users to access and operate their vehicles. With just a key fob, they can remotely lock and unlock doors, open the rear gate, and even start the engine. The 2023 Forester’s extensive system offers a simple and safe driving experience while also improving security and making daily tasks easier.

2023 Subaru Forester Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Immobilizer

The immobilizer system is designed to prevent an unauthorized person from starting the engine. Only keys registered with your vehicle’s immobilizer system can be used to operate your vehicle. If engine start is attempted with an unregistered access key fob or key, the engine will not start. Even if the engine does start, it will stop after a few seconds. This system, however, is not a 100% anti-theft guarantee.

CAUTION

  • Do not place the key under direct sunlight or anywhere it may become hot.
  • Do not get the key wet. If the key gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth immediately.
  • Do not modify or remove the system. If modified or removed, the proper operation of the system cannot be guaranteed.

NOTE

  • To protect your vehicle from theft, please pay close attention to the following security precautions:
    • Never leave your vehicle unattended with its keys inside.
    • Before leaving your vehicle, close all windows and the moon-roof, and lock the doors and rear gate.
    • Do not leave spare keys or any record of your key number in the vehicle.
  • The vehicle has a maintenance-free type immobilizer system.

Security indicator light
Key replacement Your key number plate will be required if you ever need a replacement key made. Any new key must be registered for use with your vehicle’s immobilizer system before it can be used. The maximum number of keys that can be registered for use with one vehicle is as follows.

  • Four (models without “keyless access with push-button start system”)
  • Seven (models with “keyless access with push-button start system”)

One key that has already been registered is required in order to register a new key.

NOTE
If you lose a key, the lost key’s ID code still remains in the memory of the vehicle’s immobilizer system. For security reasons, the lost key’s ID code should be erased from the memory. To erase the lost key’s ID code, all keys that will be used are required. For details about new key registration and erasing the lost key’s ID code, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Certification for immobilizer system

  • For models with “keyless access with push-button start system”:
  • For models without “keyless access with push-button start system”:

CAUTION
FCC WARNING
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Canada-spec. models
This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSS. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

  1. This device may not cause interference; and
  2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

CAUTION

  • Do not expose the remote transmitter to severe shocks, such as those experienced as a result of dropping or throwing.
  • Do not take the remote transmitter apart except when replacing the battery.
  • Do not get the remote transmitter wet. If it gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth immediately.
  • When you carry the remote transmitter on an airplane, do not
    press the button of the remote transmitter while in the airplane.
    When any button of the remote transmitter is pressed, radio waves are sent and may affect the operation of the airplane.
    When you carry the remote transmitter in a bag on an airplane, take measures to prevent the buttons of the remote transmitter from being pressed.

Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry system1

Access key fob

  1. Lock/arm button
  2. Unlock/disarm button
  3. Rear gate unlock button
  4. PANIC button

Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry system2

Transmitter

  1. Lock/arm button
  2. Unlock/disarm button
  3. Rear gate unlock button
  4. PANIC button

The remote keyless entry system has the following functions.

  • Locking and unlocking the doors, rear gate and fuel filler lid
  • Unlocking the rear gate
  • Sounding a panic alarm
  •  Arming and disarming the alarm system.

The operable distance of the remote key-less entry system is approximately 30 feet (10 meters). However, this distance will vary depending on environmental conditions. The system’s operable distance will be shorter in areas near a facility or electronic equipment emitting strong radio waves such as a power plant, broadcast station, TV tower, or remote controller of home electronic appliances.

NOTE

  • For models with “keyless access with push-button start system”, the remote keyless entry system will not be activated when the push-button ignition switch is in any position other than the “OFF” position.
  • For models without “keyless access with push-button start system”, the remote keyless entry system will not be activated when the key is inserted in the ignition switch.
  • The hazard warning flashers will flash once or twice when the access key fob/transmitter button is pressed in the following cases.
    • When locking the doors
    • When unlocking the doors
    • When unlocking the rear gate

Operation of the hazard warning flashers in the above cases can be set to “On” or “Off” by a SUBARU dealer. Consult your SUBARU dealer for details.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the Immobilizer in the 2023 Subaru Forester?
The Immobilizer is designed to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle by requiring a programmed key or fob for ignition.

How does the Immobilizer work?
The Immobilizer system typically uses a transponder chip in the key or fob to communicate with the vehicle’s immobilizer module. The module verifies the key’s authenticity before allowing the engine to start.

Can I start the Forester without a programmed key or fob?
No, the Immobilizer system requires a properly programmed key or fob for the engine to start, providing an extra layer of security against theft.

What happens if I insert an unprogrammed key into the ignition?
If an unprogrammed key is used, the Immobilizer system will prevent the engine from starting.

How many keys or fobs can be programmed for the Forester?
Multiple keys and fobs can typically be programmed for the vehicle. Check the owner’s manual for specific instructions on adding or removing keys.

Is it possible to reprogram keys or fobs for the Forester?
Reprogramming keys or fobs is typically a task performed by authorized Subaru dealerships or service centers.

Can I use the Remote Keyless Entry feature to lock and unlock doors remotely?
Yes, the Remote Keyless Entry system allows you to lock and unlock doors remotely using the key fob.

Does the Remote Keyless Entry system also control the rear gate?
Some models may offer the ability to open the rear gate remotely using the key fob, providing added convenience.

What is the range of the Remote Keyless Entry system?
The range can vary, but it typically extends up to a certain distance from the vehicle, allowing for remote access from a reasonable distance.

Can I start the engine remotely with the key fob?
Some models may offer remote engine start capabilities through the key fob, allowing you to warm up or cool down the vehicle before entering.

Are there any safety features related to the Immobilizer and Remote Keyless Entry system?
These systems primarily enhance security, but they indirectly contribute to safety by preventing unauthorized access to the vehicle.

Are there any indicators or warning lights related to the Immobilizer and Remote Keyless Entry system on the dashboard?
There may not be specific dashboard indicators for these features, but the owner’s manual will provide information on their operation.

Can I disable the Immobilizer temporarily for any reason?
The Immobilizer is a security feature that is generally not designed for temporary deactivation. It is always active when the vehicle is locked.

Can the Immobilizer system be bypassed in case of a key or fob malfunction?
Bypassing the Immobilizer system is typically not possible, and key or fob malfunctions may require reprogramming or replacement.

How can I find more information about the Immobilizer and Remote Keyless Entry system in the 2023 Subaru Forester?
Refer to the owner’s manual, visit the Subaru website, or consult a Subaru dealership for detailed information about these features and their operation in the 2023 Forester.

Useful Link

View Full User Guide: Subaru Forester 2023 Base User Guide

Download Manuals: https://www.subaru.com/owners/vehicle-resources/manuals.html

2023 Subaru Forester Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

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