This guide covers Subaru Impreza remote (keyless entry) programming across common year ranges from 1997 to 2023.

⚠️ 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 Impreza 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-impreza-key-programming-gold-coast/

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Before You Start (Critical Subaru Note)

For many Subaru Impreza models in these year ranges, remote programming requires the Remote Registration cables to be connected together.

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

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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 plugged into each other before manual remote registration will work.

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1997–2000 — Impreza Remote Programming (Manual)

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
✅ Method: Key door unlock + remote button sequence
Max 2 remotes

1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
2. UNLOCK the vehicle using the key in the driver’s door lock
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

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2000–2008 — Impreza Remote Programming (Manual)

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
After connecting, use Procedure A or Procedure B depending on whether your vehicle has a central locking switch on the driver’s door controls.

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Procedure A (2000–2008) — With Central Locking Switch

Max 4 remotes

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

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. 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

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Procedure B (2000–2008) — 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. 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

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2008–2011 — Impreza Remote Programming (Manual)

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

1. Ensure the Remote Registration cables are connected
2. Press and HOLD the central locking switch to the LOCK position
   • The interior lamp will flash
   • The vehicle may emit an audible sound
   • This indicates remote 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.

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2011–2016 — Impreza Remote Programming (Manual)

⚠️ If diagnostics immediately returns FAILED (before any prompts), it likely means no diagnostic remote programming is possible.
Check that the registration connectors are present and connected.

✅ Requirement: Remote Registration cables must be connected
✅ Method: Central locking switch method
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
   • The interior lamp will flash
   • The vehicle may emit an audible sound
   • This indicates remote 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.

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2016–2023 — Impreza Remote Programming (OBD / Diagnostic Notes)

Some Subaru platforms from 2016 onwards can program remotes via diagnostics, but the process varies by model/software.

• Remotes on “G” key platforms are often programmed via a simple diagnostic procedure
• Normally, remotes are programmed using a “Program Remotes” option in the same menu used for transponder programming
• Some 2018+ systems may use different software for remote registration

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

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⚠️ Common Reasons Impreza 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)

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Need Help or It Didn’t Work? 🚗

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

We provide Subaru Impreza key services across:

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

📞 Call or text Mike on 0494 149 841