Auto Keys
Subaru Key Replacement, Key Fob Programming & Smart Key Service
From DAT17 transponder keys to push-to-start proximity fobs, we cut and program Subaru keys at your location across Palm Beach County.
Subaru keys progressed from DAT17 transponder blades to remote head keys and finally push-to-start proximity smart keys. The chip and immobilizer moved with them, so the year and whether your Subaru is turn-key or push-to-start decide which key it needs.
Our mobile techs cut and program keys for the most common Subaru lines in Palm Beach County, including the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek. We carry blanks and programming tools in the van, confirm the exact fob by VIN and by inspecting your original key, and finish most jobs curbside in one visit.
Subaru smart keys fall in the CWTWB1U811, CWTB1G077, HYQ14AHK, and HYQ14AHC families across the years, but we confirm the exact fob by VIN before ordering, since trims and years can carry different keys.
Subaru models we service
Subaru key types by generation
Subaru keys changed significantly from one era to the next. The right blank, chip, and programming path depend on the year, trim, and ignition type, which is why we ask for the details before selecting a key.
Mid 2000s to mid 2010s: DAT17 transponder keys
Subaru used the DAT17 keyway with transponder keys and remote head keys (commonly FCC CWTWB1U811). The chip has to match the immobilizer, so a blade that fits the lock will not start the car on its own.
Early to late 2010s: remote heads and early smart keys
Subaru continued remote head keys (commonly FCC CWTB1G077) and introduced push-to-start proximity smart keys (FCC HYQ14AHK) on higher trims, so the same model could be turn-key or push-to-start by trim.
Late 2010s to present: proximity smart keys
Modern push-to-start Subarus use proximity smart keys (FCC HYQ14AHC) with an emergency blade inside. Lost smart keys are programmed to the specific vehicle.
Subaru key data by model
Verified blank, chip, and FCC references are marked accordingly. Where a value depends on trim, button count, or production date, confirm it from the original key, a VIN lookup, or a supplier catalog before cutting or ordering.
Data is drawn from professional locksmith key references. It is a starting point for identification, not a guarantee for your specific vehicle.
Subaru Outback Key Replacement
The Outback spans DAT17 transponder keys, remote head keys, and push-to-start proximity smart keys, so the year and ignition type decide the approach.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005-2014 | Transponder / remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head commonly FCC CWTWB1U811; confirm by button count | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2010-2017 | Remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head commonly FCC CWTB1G077; confirm by button count | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2015-2020 | Smart key (proximity) or remote head by trim | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity FCC HYQ14AHK; confirm trim | Proximity or OBD programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2021-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity FCC HYQ14AHC | Proximity programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
- •Subaru smart keys fall across the HYQ14AHK and HYQ14AHC families; we confirm the exact fob by VIN before ordering.
Subaru Forester Key Replacement
The Forester follows the same key progression as the Outback, from DAT17 transponder keys to push-to-start proximity smart keys.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005-2014 | Transponder / remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head commonly FCC CWTWB1U811; confirm by button count | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2010-2017 | Remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head commonly FCC CWTB1G077; confirm by button count | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2015-2018 | Smart key (proximity) or remote head by trim | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity FCC HYQ14AHK; confirm trim | Proximity or OBD programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2019-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity FCC HYQ14AHC | Proximity programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
Subaru Crosstrek Key Replacement
The Crosstrek uses remote head keys on early models and push-to-start proximity smart keys on newer trims; we confirm the exact fob by VIN.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2017 | Remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head commonly FCC CWTB1G077; confirm by VIN | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2018-2024 | Smart key (proximity) or remote head by trim | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity commonly FCC HYQ14AHK or HYQ14AHC; confirm by VIN | Proximity or OBD programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
- •The Crosstrek shares era-matched fobs with the Outback and Forester; we confirm the exact key by VIN before cutting or ordering.
Subaru Ascent Key Replacement
The Ascent is Subaru's three-row SUV and has been push-to-start with proximity smart keys throughout its run; we confirm the exact fob by VIN.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity smart key; confirm FCC from the original fob or VIN | Proximity programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
- •Ascent smart keys fall in the same era families as the Outback and Forester; we confirm the exact fob by VIN before ordering.
Subaru WRX Key Replacement
The WRX moved from remote head keys to push-to-start proximity smart keys on the latest generation, so the year and ignition type decide the key.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2021 | Remote head key | DAT17 | Transponder; confirm by VIN | Remote head key; confirm FCC by button count or VIN | OBD programming | DAT17 blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2022-2025 | Smart key (proximity) | DAT17 emergency blade | Smart key; confirm by VIN | Proximity smart key; confirm FCC from the original fob or VIN | Proximity programming | DAT17 emergency blade | Confirm with original fob |
Common Subaru key problems
- •Worn DAT17 transponder blades that turn the lock but no longer start the engine reliably.
- •Remote head keys where the buttons stop responding but the blade still works.
- •Proximity smart keys that fail or get water-damaged after beach and boat days.
- •Dead smart-key coin batteries mistaken for a failed fob.
- •All-keys-lost situations on push-to-start models that require programming to the vehicle.
- •Confusion between remote head keys and proximity smart keys on the same model year.
Subaru programming notes
- •Adding a spare while you still have a working key is faster and cheaper than an all-keys-lost job.
- •Smart keys are programmed to one specific Subaru and cannot be reused on another vehicle.
- •We confirm the exact fob from the CWTWB1U811, CWTB1G077, HYQ14AHK, or HYQ14AHC families by VIN before ordering.
- •A no-start with a good battery is often the chip or immobilizer, not the engine, and the key may need reprogramming.
- •We confirm whether the Subaru is turn-key or push-to-start before bringing the correct key.
What to have ready before service
Sending these details when you call (561) 839-9919 lets us bring the right blank and programming tools on the first trip so your Subaru job is done in one visit.
Real Subaru locksmith scenarios
These are the Subaru situations we actually get called for in Palm Beach County, with the technician's read on each one: what is happening, whether a mobile locksmith can solve it, and what the job typically involves. They are educational examples, not testimonials.
Worn DAT17 blade with intermittent starting
The key has to be wiggled or held at an angle in the ignition, and starting is hit or miss.
Likely causes
- •A worn DAT17 blade after years of daily use.
- •A worn ignition lock wafer set.
Programming
Required if a new transponder key is cut
Ignition repair
Only if the cylinder is worn
Key replacement
Often, to restore a crisp cut
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Cut a new key to the confirmed code and program it.
- •Rebuild or replace the ignition cylinder if it is worn.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We cut a fresh DAT17 key to the original code so the blade engages cleanly again.
Transponder key turns but the engine won't start
On an older turn-key Subaru the engine cranks but never catches, and the security light shows.
Likely causes
- •The transponder is not being read by the immobilizer.
- •A failed chip or a key that was never fully programmed.
- •A worn blade not seating in the lock.
Programming
Usually required
Ignition repair
Only if the lock or reader is also faulty
Key replacement
Often
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Reprogram the existing key if the chip is intact.
- •Cut and program a new DAT17 transponder key if the chip has failed.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm whether the chip is being read and reprogram or replace the key so the immobilizer recognizes it.
No key detected on a push-to-start Subaru
A push-to-start Outback, Forester, or Crosstrek shows a key not detected message even with the fob in the cabin.
Likely causes
- •Dead or weak coin battery in the smart key.
- •A failed or water-damaged fob.
- •All fobs lost so none can be detected.
Programming
Required for a new fob
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the fob has failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery and retest.
- •Hold the fob to the start button to use the backup detection, then diagnose.
- •Program a new smart key and cut the DAT17 emergency blade.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test the fob, replace the battery, or program a new smart key after confirming the correct fob by VIN.
Dead smart key battery mistaken for a failed fob
The fob stops unlocking the doors and the car barely detects it, so you assume the fob is dead.
Likely causes
- •A drained coin battery after a couple of years.
- •A fob exposed to heat or moisture.
Programming
Only if a new fob is needed
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Only if the fob has failed
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery and retest detection.
- •Program a new smart key if the fob itself is faulty.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test the fob and battery first and only replace the fob if it has truly failed.
Lost all Subaru keys
Every key is gone and the car will not start or detect a fob.
Likely causes
- •All keys misplaced, stolen, or lost on the water.
- •Only one key came with a used Subaru and it was lost.
Programming
Required
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Required
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Program a new transponder or remote head key on turn-key models.
- •Program a new smart key and cut the DAT17 emergency blade on push-to-start models.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We generate and program a new key or smart key to the vehicle on site after confirming the correct part by VIN.
Spare key while you still have one
You have one working key and want a backup before it is lost or damaged.
Likely causes
- •A single key on a used Subaru.
- •A household sharing one key between drivers.
Programming
Required to pair the spare
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut and program a spare transponder or remote head key.
- •Program a spare smart key and cut its DAT17 emergency blade.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. Adding a spare while you still have a working key is the fastest and cheapest key job we do.
Water-damaged smart key after a beach or boat day
The fob got wet at the beach or on the boat and now detection and buttons are unreliable.
Likely causes
- •Salt water or moisture corroding the fob board.
- •A swollen or shorted coin battery.
Programming
Required for a new fob
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the fob is corroded
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the battery and dry the fob to test function.
- •Program a new smart key if the board is corroded.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test whether the fob can be revived and program a new smart key when water damage is permanent.
Remote head buttons dead but the blade still starts the car
Lock and unlock from the remote head key stopped working, yet the blade still starts the car.
Likely causes
- •A failed button membrane or transmitter on the remote head key.
- •A weak coin battery.
Programming
Required for a new remote head key
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the remote has failed
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Replace the battery and retest the buttons.
- •Program a new remote head key.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We replace and program a new remote head key so the buttons work again.
Broken remote head key shell
The car still starts, but the plastic shell or the DAT17 blade on the remote head key has cracked or come loose.
Likely causes
- •Years of daily handling and drops.
- •A failed shell or a loose blade rivet.
Programming
Only if a new key is supplied
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Shell swap or full key
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Rehouse the existing electronics and DAT17 blade in a new shell.
- •Program a new remote head key if the board is also damaged.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We can move the working electronics into a new shell or supply and program a fresh remote head key.
Remote head versus proximity confusion on the same model year
You are not sure whether your Outback, Forester, or Crosstrek uses a remote head key you turn or a push-to-start smart key.
Likely causes
- •The same model year offered both setups by trim.
- •Only one key came with the vehicle so there is nothing to compare.
Programming
Required for a new key
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare or replacement
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Confirm the correct key and fob by VIN before ordering.
- •Cut and program the matching remote head or smart key.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm the exact key by VIN and by inspecting your original, then bring the right key.
Used Subaru that came with one key
You bought a used Outback, Forester, or Crosstrek and it only came with a single key or fob.
Likely causes
- •The second key was never handed over at sale.
- •The remaining key is old and you want a reliable backup.
Programming
Required to pair the spare
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Confirm the correct blank and fob by VIN before ordering.
- •Cut and program a spare key or smart key.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm the exact key by VIN and add a spare while the existing one still works.
Key will not turn in the ignition
The key goes into a turn-key Subaru's ignition but will not rotate to start.
Likely causes
- •A worn ignition lock cylinder.
- •A worn or slightly bent DAT17 blade.
- •A steering lock binding against the wheel.
Programming
Only if a new transponder key is needed
Ignition repair
Often required if the cylinder is worn
Key replacement
If the blade is worn
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Rock the wheel to release a bound steering lock.
- •Cut a fresh DAT17 key to the confirmed code.
- •Rebuild or replace the ignition cylinder.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We free a bound steering lock, cut a fresh DAT17 key to the confirmed code, or service the cylinder.
Subaru Key & Fob FAQs
Can you replace a Subaru key if I lost all of them?
Yes. We program a new key or smart key to your vehicle on site. All-keys-lost jobs on push-to-start models take a little longer because the key is programmed directly to the car.
Do you program Subaru smart keys (push-to-start)?
Yes. We supply and program proximity smart keys such as the HYQ14AHK and HYQ14AHC and cut the DAT17 emergency blade inside.
My Subaru key turns but won't start. What's wrong?
The transponder in the key has to match the immobilizer. If the blade is fine but the engine won't start, the chip may have failed and the key needs reprogramming or replacement.
Is my Outback turn-key or push-to-start?
Both exist across the years. If you insert and twist a key it is turn-key; if you press a button it is a smart key. Tell us which so we bring the correct key.
How much is a replacement Subaru key?
It depends on whether it is a transponder key, a remote head key, or a smart key, plus the year. We quote an up-front price before we head out.
Can you cut a spare Subaru key from my working one?
Yes. A spare made from a working key is the cheapest insurance against a future lockout, and we cut and program it on the spot.
Do you come to my home or workplace?
Yes. We are fully mobile and service Subarus wherever they are parked across Palm Beach County.
Why is my Subaru smart key not detected?
It is often a dead coin battery rather than a failed fob. We can test it, replace the battery, or program a new smart key if needed.
What do you need to make a Subaru key?
The year, model, VIN, whether it is turn-key or push-to-start, and proof of ownership. A photo of your current key helps us match it.
Do you service the Crosstrek as well as the Outback and Forester?
Yes. We handle the Crosstrek, Outback, Forester, and the rest of the Subaru lineup, confirming the exact fob by VIN in each case.
Other makes we cut & program keys for
Understand your Subaru key before you call
Plain-English guides from our locksmiths on how Subaru keys, fobs, and immobilizers actually work, so you know what you are dealing with.
Subaru keys near you
We bring Subaru key cutting and programming to your door across Palm Beach County.
Locked Out? We're on the Way.
Don't wait around. Our mobile technicians are stationed throughout West Palm Beach ready to dispatch to your location immediately.