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🔑 Subaru Forester Remote Programming Guide (1998–2021) — Manual & OBD Notes

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This guide covers Subaru Forester remote (keyless entry) programming across common year ranges from 1998 to 2021.

⚠️ Important
These procedures program remote locking functions only (lock/unlock).
They do NOT program immobiliser transponder chips, smart/proximity keys, or push-to-start systems.

If your Subaru Forester won’t enter programming mode or the remote isn’t accepted, the vehicle may require diagnostic key or immobiliser programming.

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https://needcarkeys.com.au/subaru-forester-key-programming-gold-coast/

Before You Start (Critical Subaru Note)

Many Subaru Forester models in these year ranges require the Remote Registration cables to be connected together.

If you attempt diagnostic remote programming and it immediately returns FAILED (before any prompts to press remote buttons), it often indicates diagnostic remote programming is not supported and you must use the manual registration connector method instead.

Remote Registration Connectors (Where to Find Them)

These connectors are typically located:

  • Under the driver-side kick panel
  • Next to the accelerator pedal
  • Two white cable connectors that must be plugged into each other

✅ These two connectors must be connected before manual remote registration will work.

1998–2002 — Forester Remote Programming (Manual)

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected

After connecting the cables, use the correct method depending on whether your Forester has a central locking switch on the driver door controls.

Procedure A (1998–2002) — With Central Locking Switch

Max 4 remotes

This applies if the driver door controls have a central locking switch (LOCK/UNLOCK on the door).

  1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
  2. Press and HOLD the central locking switch to the UNLOCK position
    • The interior lamp will flash
    • The vehicle may emit an audible sound
    • This indicates remote registration mode is active
  3. On the first remote, press UNLOCK, then LOCK
    • Doors should lock/unlock to confirm successful programming
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional remotes
  5. When finished, disconnect the Remote Registration cables and test operation

Procedure B (1998–2002) — No Central Locking Switch

Max 2 remotes

This applies if the door controls do not have a central locking switch.

  1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
  2. UNLOCK the vehicle using the key in the driver’s door lock
  3. On the first remote, press UNLOCK, then LOCK
    • Doors should lock/unlock to confirm successful programming
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional remotes
  5. When finished, disconnect the Remote Registration cables and test operation

2002–2008 — Forester Remote Programming (Manual)

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
✅ Method: Central locking switch on door controls
Max 3 remotes

  1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
  2. Press and HOLD the central locking switch to the LOCK position
    • Interior lamp will flash
    • Vehicle may emit an audible sound
    • This indicates registration mode is active
  3. Press UNLOCK, then LOCK on the first remote
    • Doors should lock/unlock to confirm successful programming
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional remotes
  5. Disconnect the Remote Registration cables and test operation

🔁 If Step 2 fails when holding LOCK, try holding the switch in the UNLOCK position instead.

2008–2012 — Forester Remote Programming (Manual)

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
✅ Method: Central locking switch on door controls
Max 3 remotes

  1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
  2. Press and HOLD the central locking switch to the LOCK position
    • Interior lamp will flash
    • Vehicle may emit an audible sound
    • This indicates registration mode is active
  3. Press UNLOCK, then LOCK on the first remote
    • Doors should lock/unlock to confirm successful programming
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional remotes
  5. Disconnect the Remote Registration cables and test operation

🔁 If Step 2 fails when holding LOCK, try holding the switch in the UNLOCK position instead.

2012–2018 — Forester Remote Programming (Manual)

⚠️ If diagnostics instantly returns FAILED (before any prompts), it likely means no diagnostic remote programming is possible. Use the manual method below and ensure the registration connectors are present and connected.

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
✅ Method: Central locking switch on door controls
Max 3 remotes

  1. Confirm the registration connectors exist and are plugged into each other
  2. Press and HOLD the central locking switch to the LOCK position
    • Interior lamp will flash
    • Vehicle may emit an audible sound
    • This indicates registration mode is active
  3. Press UNLOCK, then LOCK on the first remote
    • Doors should lock/unlock to confirm successful programming
  4. Repeat Step 3 for any additional remotes
  5. Disconnect the Remote Registration cables and test operation

🔁 If Step 2 fails when holding LOCK, try holding the switch in the UNLOCK position instead.

2018–2021 — Forester Remote Programming (OBD / Diagnostic Notes)

Some Subaru platforms from 2018 onwards can program remotes via diagnostics, but the process varies by model/software.

  • Remotes are often programmed via a “Program Remotes” option in the same menu used for transponder programming
  • Some 2018+ models use different software and may not follow older patterns

If your Forester won’t accept manual registration, or diagnostics isn’t available for your specific model, professional assistance is recommended.

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⚠️ Common Reasons Forester Remote Programming Fails

  • Remote Registration connectors not connected
  • Incorrect remote frequency or part number
  • Vehicle battery voltage too low
  • Aftermarket alarm/immobiliser interference
  • Some late models require diagnostic programming only
  • Some models do not support diagnostic remote programming (FAILED immediately)

Need Help or It Didn’t Work? 🚗

If your Subaru Forester won’t enter programming mode or the remote isn’t accepted, the vehicle may require diagnostic key or immobiliser programming.

We provide Subaru Forester key services across:

  • Gold Coast
  • Northern NSW
  • 📍 Mobile service — no towing required

📞 Call or text Mike on 0494 149 841

Need Car Keys ? 0494 149 841

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