HOW TO USE YOUR SUBARU KEYLESS ENTRY, SECURITY AND IMMOBILIZER KEY SYSTEMS
Outback, Tribeca Legacy, Impreza, Forester: XT, GT, WRX, STi, Premium
2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000

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Learn to use your Subaru remote, alarm system, and remote start system 
Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Tribeca, Forester, XT, GT, WRX STi, XS...

sorted by year and type of system

Summary of changes: start here, then come back and check this table below
information is always subject to change and correction, tips and hints welcomed

Immobilizer keys require codes to cut and program them. Subaru dealers can get your codes https://subarudealers.locksmithsdrm.com
 
all 2010 models page
2009, 2008 Outback, Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza, Forester
all come with standard Immobilizer Key
Picture of new for 08 keys and remotes
Audible chirp on/off
Program Remote
Alarm, disable or turn back on
Remote start (not Impreza)
2008 Forester
same as 2005-6-7 Forester
2007
Remote start
Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback (same as 06)
alarm; program remotes; immobilizer keys
2006
Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback
alarm; program remotes; immobilizer keys
2005
Impreza-Forester
Legacy, Outback Alarm
Legacy, Outback program remotes

Immobilizer keys used on STi, Legacy, Outback, Forester

1999-2004
Alpine system used on
Legacy, Outback 1999-2004
Impreza 2000-2004
Forester 2000-2004
1995-2000
Code Alarm System
used on 
Impreza through 2000 model
Legacy through 1998 model
Forester 1998 model
SVX 1992-1997

Need parts, remotes, keys? Visit AllSubaru.com

97-99 
Non US Spec Forester
more are welcomed, please send concise and tested instructions and a small photograph of the remote

An unofficial page by Joe Spitz who is responsible for all content, 
This page is not authorized or supported by SoA or any dealership.
Always contact your local dealer for any new or repair issues or warranty questions.
comments and tips welcomed contact

All information, text, formatting © J Spitz  Unauthorized reproduction, copying or use prohibited 
information is always subject to change and correction

you are here: http://www.cars101.com/subaru/keyless.html  3.18.11

SUMMARY of changes: see below for all the information
information is always subject to change and correction

new 2009 New smaller one piece key remote on Legacy, Outback and Tribeca. All Subarus now have Immobilizer Keys.

new 2008 New one piece key and remote for Outback, Legacy, Tribeca.
New: all Imprezas have Immobilizer keys, and new for any Subaru, a Laser cut key.
Chipped immobilizer key now standard on all Legacy, Outback, Tribeca and Impreza models, and on the Forester XT and XT Sports. Not on Forester X, X Premium or  LLBean
2008 Forester is the same as 2007
new 2007 New Remote Start system is optional on Outback, Legacy, Tribeca. Chipped key (immobilizer) now standard on all Legacy, Outback (except Outback Basic), Tribeca, STI, WRX and Forester XT models.
new 2006 New remotes with recessed buttons that are harder to accidently press on Outback, Legacy and Impreza. Immobilzer key standard on WRX, STI, Forester XT, and all Tribeca, Legacy and Outback models.
new 2005 Impreza-Forester and Legacy-Outback:new remote fobs, and all new Immobilizer keys on STi, Forester XT, Legacy GT, Outback XT, LL Bean, VDC, Outback sedan.  Remote entry works much the same.
New 2003 Remote buttons now colored. Orange (large) for lock, Blue (small) for unlock. A 'chirp' replaces the audible honk of 00-02 models.
The chirp is once for lock, two times for unlock, multiple times if a door is ajar when you try to lock them. This is optional. To turn the audible on or off unlock all the doors and hold *both* buttons down until the horn honks. It will always chirp 5 times if a door is not fully closed when you lock with the remote.
New 2000 The alarm flashing light has been moved to the center of the dashboard gauge, part of a complete remodel of the entire vehicle
1999: Forester and Impreza continue with Code Alarm system.
Legacy uses new Alpine system available replacing Code-Alarm.
Keyless remote was standard (alarm upgrade was optional) on most 1999 Legacy Outbacks. The exception is some fleet (rental etc) cars didn't have it.
1998 no changes
1997 remote by Code Alarm changed to unlock only the driver's door with one push. Hold unlock to open remaining doors.
1996: remote by Code Alarm. unlocks ALL doors with one push.
1995 Passive Security System (no remote)
This system armed by locking the doors with or without the key. Windows could even be open and the system would arm.
De-activate by using a key in the door or ignition key to 'acc' or 'on' position.. Note: yes, the key could be turned too quickly.
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2009
 
new for 2009 Subaru remote entry
new smaller remotes in 2009 Outback, Legacy and Tribeca
more to come

 

2008

2008 Impreza keys
Above: New for 08 Impreza laser cut keys. Laser keys are new for Subaru. These are all Immobilizer chipped keys. Also comes with 2 keyless remotes. The light gray one is the valet key, it opens driver door and starts car.
one piece key and remote, new for 2008 Subaru
Above: photo shown: new for 2008 Outback, Legacy and Tribeca one piece key/remote. Valet key (no remote) is in the middle

 


2009, 2008 Outback Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza
Audible Chirp when locking/unlocking give you an audible signal when the doors lock and unlock. If desired, you may turn the audible signal off.
Do the following to deactivate the audible signal. You can also use the same steps to restore the function.
1. Sit in the driver’s seat and shut all doors and the rear gate.
2. Hold down the UNLOCK side of the power door locking switch.
3. While holding down the “UNLOCK” side of the power door locking switch, pull the key out and re-insert it into the ignition switch at least 6 times within 10 seconds
after Step 2.
4. Open and close the driver’s door once within 10 seconds after Step 3.
5. The turn signal lights flash 3 times to indicate completion of the setting.


2008, 2007 Remote Start
information is always subject to change and correction
Subaru remote start
photo shown with 2007 keys

Starting your vehicle
The remote control start system is activated by pressing the remote control's start button twice within 3 seconds.
The system will check certain pre-conditions before starting and if all safety parameters are correct will start within 5 seconds.
While the vehicle is operating via remote engine start, the vehicle's power window features will be disabled.
Also, the system has a timer and will shut down after 15 minutes if you do not operate the vehicle.
Press and hold the start button for 2 seconds again to turn the vehicle off.
If the vehicle's starter cranks but does not start or starts and then stalls, the remote engine start system will power off then attempt to start the vehicle an additional four times. If the vehicle fails to start after the additional attempts, the remote engine start system will abort and return to a non activated state.

For safety and security reasons, the system will fail to start and beep the horn twice or shut down the engine during remote start operation if any of the following occur:
The brake pedal is pressed before the vehicle ignition switch is turned on.
The key was already in the ignition switch.
The engine hood is opened.
The vehicle engine idle speed has reached a level over 3,000 RPM
The alarm is triggered by opening a door or the rear gate.
The security indicator light on the dashboard will stop flashing while under remote engine start operation, but the vehicle is still protected. If the vehicle is entered during remote engine start operation, the system will not record entry in the alarm history.

Entering the vehicle while it is running via remote start
1. Unlock the vehicle doors using the keyless entry system. If the vehicles doors are unlocked manually using the key, the vehicle alarm system will trigger and the remote engine start system will turn off. Inserting the key into the ignition switch and turning it to the ON position or pressing the unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter will disarm the alarm system.
2. Enter the vehicle. Do not press the brake pedal.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn to the ON. If the ignition switch is accidentally turned to the Start, the system starter anti-grind feature will prevent the starter from re-cranking.
4. Press the brake pedal. The remote starter disengages, the power window features are re-enabled and the vehicle will operate normally.
Entering the vehicle following remote engine start shutdown
An alarm trigger may accus if the vehicle if the vehicle is opend by the remote keyless

Service mode. In service mode, the remote start function is temporarily disabled to prevent the system from unexpectedly starting the engine while being serviced.
To engage the service mode, turn the ignition switch to the ON, depress and hold the brake pedal then, press and release the START button on the remote control transmitter three times. The system will pause for one second and then flash the parking lights and honk the horn three times indicating that the system is in service mode. When attempting to activate the remote start system while in service mode, the parking lights will flash and the horn will honk two times and will not start.
To disengage the service mode turn the ignition switch to ON, depress and hold the brake pedal, then press and release the START button on the remote control transmitter three times. The system will pause for one second and flash the parking lights one time indicating that the system has exited service mode.
NOTE: when taking your vehicle in for service, it is recommended that you inform the service personnel that your vehicle is equipped with a remote control start system.
New transmitters can be programmed to the engine starter system in the event that remote transmitters are lost, stolen or damaged.

The remote engine start system also has one programmable feature that can be adjusted to either make an audible horn chirp upon remote start activation or not.
Remote transmitter programming and feature programming can be adjusted using the following procedure.
1. Open the drivers door (the drivers door must remain opened throughout the entire process).
2. Insert the key into the vehicles ignition switch and turn to the ON position.
3. Locate the small black programming button behind the fuse box cover, on the drivers side left under the dashboard panel.
4. Press and hold the black programming button for 10-15 seconds. The horn will honk and the parking lights will flash three times to indicate that the system has entered programming mode.
At this point you can perform either action (Step 5 or Step 6).
5. To program a remote transmitter: press and release the START button on each transmitter. The horn will honk and the parking lights will flash one time to indicate
a successful transmitter learn each time the START button is pressed. You can program up to eight transmitters.
6. To toggle the Horn Confirmation chirps ON/OFF: press and release the brake to toggle the feature. The horn will chirp and the parking lights will flash one time to indicate Confirmation Horn Chirps are OFF. The horn will honk and the parking lights will flash 2 times to indicate Confirmation Horn Chirps are ON. Pressing the brake pedal repeatedly will toggle the feature ON or OFF each time.
7. To exit the remote transmitter and feature programming mode, turn the ignition switch to OFF, remove the key from the ignition switch and test operation of the remote transmitter(s) and horn confirmation feature.
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information is always subject to change and correction



2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 Tribeca, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester (the Forester uses the 05 remote)
program remote section
information is always subject to change and correction
2006 Subaru Tribeca keyless remote
photo shown: new for 2006 remote key fob (except Forester) has a recessed unlock button which is harder to accidently hit.
Tribeca and Legacy/Outback have a red panic button on back, Forester/Impreza do not.

ALARM: to Disarm the system or set Valet mode.
Legacy, Outback, Tribeca:  When alarm is activated and you don't have the remote to de-activate, just turn the car on.
Impreza, Forester: When alarm is activated and you don't have the remote to de-activate, override by turning key in ignition on-off 3x.

Disarm the alarm system so it doesn't work
1. Sit in the driver's seat and shut all doors and rear gate.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
3. Hold down the UNLOCK side of the driver's power door locking switch on the door and Open the driver's door within the following 1 second!
5. Wait 10 seconds without releasing the switch (holding the lock button).

The setting will then be changed as follows, as indicated in the odometer/trip meter display:
If the system was previously activated: The odometer/trip meter screen displays 'AL oF' and the horn sounds twice, indicating that the system is now deactivated.
If the system was previously deactivated The odometer/trip meter screen displays 'AL on' and the horn sounds once, indicating that the system is now activated.

Flashing alarm light
The security indicator light flashes when the alarm system has been triggered.
The number of flashes indicates the location of unauthorized intrusion or severity of impact.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the indicator light will light for 1 second
and then flash as follow-
5 times When a door or rear gate was opened.
3 times When the ignition switch was turned to the ON position by using a key not registered with your immobilizer system.
2 times When a strong impact or multiple impacts were sensed
1 time on vehicles with optional shock sensors
The shock sensors are not always able to sense impacts caused by breaking in, and cannot sense an impact that does not cause vibration such as breaking the glass using a rescue hammer. Shock sensor sensitivity can be adjusted by your dealer.

The Chirp
when locking/unlocking your Subaru from the keyless entry system the chirp can be disabled by performing the following:  with all doors closed with the key in the ignition, open the driver's door, remove the key from the ignition, hold down the unlock button on the drivers door.  While holding down that button, insert the key into and out of the ignition at least 6 times within 10 seconds.  Continue holding the unlock button and close the driver's door. Signal lights should flash 3 times to confirm the setting.
Use of the keyless transmitter with still lock and unlock the vehicle (and arm the alarm), but without the annoying chirping.  Repeating the procedure will re-enable the keyless entry chirp.

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2005 Legacy, Outback
information is always subject to change and correction


2005 Legacy, Outback Key and fob.
Note: this is not the same as the 05 Impreza remote which does not have truck/gate release on the front or the red panic button on the back.

ALARM system
The remote has a range of app 30 ft.depending on battery strength
The  alarm is the horn honking and turn signal lights flashing if someone attempts to start the car, or with the perimeter/shock sensor upgrade if they break into or impact the car
The alarm can be armed and disarmed with the remote transmitter.
It does not operate when the key is inserted into the ignition switch.

Where did I park my car? Make the horn honk by pressing the lock button 3times and the horn will honk and then each time you press lock it will honk again so you can find your car.
Panic mode? Press the red button on the back and the horn will start flashing qucickly, repeatedly.

Triggered alarm? horn honking
The horn honks and the turn signals flash for 30 seconds.
If any door or rear gate/trunk is open after that 30-second period, the horn will continue to sound for a maximum of 3 minutes. If the door or rear gate/trunk is closed while the horn is sounding, the horn will stop sounding with a delay of up to 30 seconds.

Oops? you accidentally triggered the alarm system, or lost the remote and have to open the door with your key.
Have the remote? Press any button on the remote transmitter to stop the alarm sounding.
Have a key but no remote? The alarm is activated and honking? Put the key in the ignition and turn it from LOCK to ON three times within  5 seconds.
Immobilizer key?  If you have an Immobilizer Key just turn it the ignition switch to the 'ON' position.

Arming the system
Close  all windows, trunk or gate, hood, moonroof etc.
Remove the key from the ignition switch.
Push lock button on remote or use the power lock button on the door and close the door behind you.

Activating and Deactivating the alarm.
'Valet mode' is the same as deactivated

 Activate or Deactivate/set Valet the alarm.
1. Sit in the driver's seat and shut all doors and rear gate etc
2. Cycle the ignition switch from LOCK to ON three times within 10 seconds,  leave it in the ON position.
3. Within 10 seconds open and close the driver's door.
4. The current setting (on or off) will be displayed in the odometer/trip meter screen. It will say 'AL on' or 'AL off'

4. Within 10 seconds operate the driver's door locking switch as follows:
    To deactivate, or set 'valet' mode:
Move the door panel power lock switch to the unlock position (toward the rear) three times. The odometer/trip meter screen will display 'AL OF'
    To activate:
Move the door panel power lock switch to the lock position (toward the front) three times. The odometer/trip meter screen will display 'AL ON'.

When the setting has been changed, a buzzer will sound and the odometer/trip meter screen will display the new setting.

Chirping sound is optional. To turn the chirp off or back on, unlock all the doors with the unlock button on the remote, then press both the lock and the unlock buttons on the remote for 2 seconds. The system will chirp to indicate the chnage has been successful.

Dead battery
After the battery is replaced, the transmitter must be synchronized with the keyless entry system. Press either the lock or unlock button six times to synchronize the unit

information is always subject to change and correction
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Programming the remotes
information is always subject to change and correction

2008, 2007, 2006 Tribeca, Impreza, Legacy/Outback,
2005 Legacy, Outback,

This is somewhat complicated and everything needs to be done in a quick timely manner or you have to start again (and again).

It is much easier to contact your local dealer who can program them for you using a special computer.

Programming new remotes
The keyless entry system is equipped with a code learning feature that allows you to program new transmitter codes into the system or to delete old ones.
The system can learn up to four unique transmitter codes. The four transmitter codes may be the same or different.

To register a new transmitter  with the keyless entry system, it is necessary to program the transmitter's code (identification number) into the system.
A label showing the code is affixed to the bag containing the transmitter, and another is affixed to the circuit board inside the remote.  If there is no bag, open the remote and make a note  of the eight-digit number.

the code is also inside the remote transmitter (image c. SoA)

Programming the remote transmitter code (from the owners manual)
read through this first since eveything needs to be done in a quick sequence
1. Sit in the driver's seat, close all doors and the rear gate or trunk lid etc
2. Open and close the driver's door one time.

then  Within 45 seconds
3. open and close the driver's door once
4. turn the ignition key from LOCK to ON 10 times within 15 seconds.
An electronic tone will sound once, a buzzer will continue to sound and the interior light will continue to flash until the transmitter codes are completely registered.

If you do not perform the steps above within 45 seconds an error will occur and neither an electronic tone  nor  the  buzzer  will  sound and the interior lamp will not flash. In this event, start all over again.

Within 45 seconds do the following
Open and close the driver's door once within 15 seconds and an electronic tone will sound for 30 seconds. If  you do not perform the operations within 15 seconds an error will occur and the electronic tone will not sound. In this event, perform the registration steps again beginning with # 3 above.

Ok, here is the fun part...

Before the electronic tone stops, press the power door lock button to LOCK the same number of times as the leftmost digit of the transmitter code.
For example, press the LOCK button 8 times if the leftmost digit of the code is 8. If the number is 3 then LOCK the door 3 times etc...
When you have finished entering the number, push to UNLOCK side within five seconds and
Then do that for all the remaining 7 digits of the code. After each series pull the lock knob to the UNLOCK side within five seconds.

When you are finished, within 5 seconds push that LOCK button to UNLOCK one time and then do it all again, the full series.
Yes, once again start with the left digit and re-enter each one using the lock button within a few seconds.
When you have entered the  eighth  digit the second time an electronic tone will sound for 30 seconds.

The electronic tone will stop sounding when you start entering the number. If you do not start entering the number using the lock knob before the electronic tone stops sounding, an error will occur. In this event, perform the registration steps again beginning with part 3 above.
If the interval between one push of the knob and the next exceeds five seconds, an error will occur.
In this event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 4. If an error occurs six times, perform the procedure again starting with part 3.

If the code entered the second time is not identical to the code entered the first time, an error will occur. In this event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 5. If an error occurs five times, perform the procedure again starting with part 3.

If you  wish to  program another transmitter code into the system (up to four transmitter codes can be programmed into the system), perform the procedure beginning  with part 4. When you have finished programming all of the necessary transmitter codes into the system, remove the key from the ignition switch.
Test to make sure it's right

Deleting old transmitter codes
The control unit of the keyless entry system can store 4 transmitter codes.
Lost transmitter the lost transmitter's code remains in memory. For security reasons, lost transmitter codes should be deleted from the memory.
To delete old transmitter codes, program four transmitter codes into the system. If you have only one current transmitter, program it four times. If you have two
current transmitters, program each one twice. If you have three current transmitters, program two of them once and the third one twice.
This process will leave only current transmitter codes in the system's memory.

Make sure no one else is operating their keyless entry system within range of your vehicle when programming transmitters. If someone else were to operate their remote transmitter while you are programming your transmitters, it is possible that their transmitter code will be programmed into your system, allowing them unauthorized access to your vehicle.

or just call your local dealer!
Errors here? contact me with corrections. Thank you
information is always subject to change and correction


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IMPREZA: 2005, 2006, 2007  and
FORESTER: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Check for Immobilizer key on Forester XT models only.
information is always subject to change and correction

new design 2005 Impreza Keyless remote fob
new remote for 2005 Imprezas.
This is not the same remote as the 05 Legacy/Outback remote which also has truck/gate release on the front and a red panic button on the back.

Lock: press Lock button for 2 seconds or so to lock car, and arm optional security system. The car with chirp once and turn signals flash for locked, 5 short chirps and signal flashes if any door is not fully closed. The dome light goes on for 15 seconds and ignition key ring (if present) will light for 30 seconds when unlocked.
Unlock: press unlock one time for driver's door, press again within 5 seconds to unlock all doors inkling rear gate (wagon). The system does not open the trunk.
Panic mode: press and hold lock button for approx. 3-4 seconds to activate Panic mode. I panic model the horn honks and turn signals flash  until either the lock or unlock button is pushed again.
Finder mode: Press lock button 3 times within 5 seconds to activate Vehicle Finder mode. The horn will honk once and the turn signals will flash 3 times
Distance: works within approx. 30 feet depending on battery strength, nearby concrete walls and etc.
Audible Chirp On-Off: the system will chirp when locked or unlocked. To turn OFF the chirps, unlock the door and then push both lock and unlock buttons at the exact same time for 2+ seconds. There will be 2 chirps indicating the the audible is off. To turn the chirp back on, repeat the process and the system will chirp one time when it is back on.
Battery: as the battery ages it will only work as you get closer to the car. When a battery is replaced, the transmitter must be re-synchronized with the Keyless control unit. To synchronize, press the lock or unlock button 6 times.

Programming: 4 codes may be programmed.
Sit in driver's seat and unlock all doors. Open and close the driver's door
Turn the ignition key from LOCK to ON position 10 times within 15 seconds. Be sure to stop at both lock and on. The horn will HONK once to indicate transmitter programming mode is activated. Leave key in LOCK position and don't remove it from ignition.
You now have 45 seconds to complete the programming as below.
Open and close driver's door again.
Push either lock or unlock button on the remote you want to program. The horn will honk 2 times when successful.
To continue and program other remotes at the same time: open and close the driver's door and push lock or unlock on the remote. The driver's door must be opened and closed between each remote you want to program.
Done programming? remove the key from the ignition and the horn will honk 3 times.
DELETE old codes? Reprogram 4 times, it will overwrite old codes.

Alarm Security System: optional on all models. When locked there is one chirp (can be turned off, see above), the turn signals will flash and the red 'security' light will start to flash once every 2 seconds except for STi which flashes twice every 2 seconds.
There will be 5 chirps if a door, hood, and trunk or gate is not fully closed
You can also arm the system by using the power lock button on the driver or passenger door as you get out of the car and then closing the door behind you.
Disarm the system: push unlock for 2 seconds

Lost remote, alarm activated? When you can't use a remote to turn off the system: open the door with a key or try to start the car and the horn will start to honk.  Turn the key on-off  3 times within 5 seconds and the alarm will go off and you can start the car. It's simple!

VALET mode: To set valet mode or just to disable the security alarm system: 1. unlock all doors 2. physically open the driver's door 3. hold the UNLOCK button on remote for 2+ seconds. The red 'security' light will then flash 2 times a second until the car is turned on.

System has been Tripped (except for STi):  if you unlock the door with the remote and it chirps the signal light flash 4 times, the system has been triggered;
Identification  mode: To find out what happened and why the system was triggered:
Open and drivers door, leave it open. Turn ignition key from LOCK to ON 2 times and then leave in LOCK position.
Tripped code: 1 security light flash: a door has been opened,  3 flashes when the impact sensor was triggered, 4 flashes when the ignition was messed with or battery disconnected
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IMMOBILIZER KEY
information is always subject to change and correction

2005 Immobilizer keys
STi keys on left, Outback and Legacy keys with 2005 key fob on right

Immobilizer keys
This is a 'chipped' key which means the car won't run without one, it will be 'immobilized'.

2008 standard on all Tribeca,  Legacy, Outback models

2007 standard on all Tribeca, Impreza WRX and STI, Forester XT, and all Legacy, Outback (except Outback Basic) models

2006 standard on all Tribeca, Impreza WRX and STI, Forester XT, and all Legacy and Outback models

2005 standard on all Tribeca, Impreza STi, Forester XT, Legacy GT, Outback XT, Outback LL Bean, Outback VDC, Outback 3.0R sedan

Consists of a transponder in the keys and an antenna inside the ignition cylinder.
The ignition antenna receives a ID code when the key is inserted in the cylinder and if the codes match the car will stay running, otherwise it shuts off within a few seconds.
If an incorrect key is used, the car will run for a few seconds and then shut off. If that happens, remove the key, wait a few seconds, try again.
The immobilizer code is stamped on a metal tag (don't lose this) supplied with the car.

When off: a red 'security' light will flash in the center of the instrument panel indicating the car has an anti-theft system.
This light will flash when the car is turned off or the key is removed. It flashes approx. once every 3 seconds, a single flash every 3 seconds.

When a new Immobilizer key is needed, all keys must be present at the dealer because they all must be programmed with the same ID code. You can have 4 keys.
Keep the keys out of water and direct hot sun.

Registration must be carried out when an additional key is purchased or when either a key, ECM (electronic control module, i.e. the brain) or combination meter is replaced. The procedure includes initialization of the system and re-registration of the ID code. Once initialized, the system loses the ID code it has retained so far and has no code until a new code is registered.
ID codes for up to four keys (transponders) can be registered with a car.
Registration is carried out by an authorized dealer using a select monitor and a special program. Access to the program is strictly controlled for reasons of security. The security ID (kept by customer) is required for registration. As the ID code for all registered keys are cleared when registration is started, registration must be performed will all keys including spares handed from the customer.
The keys must be replaced simultaneously if the  body integrated unit is replaced.
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ALPINE SYSTEM, new starting in 1999, used through 2004
information is always subject to change and correction

Used on:
Legacy, Outback all models 1999-2004
Forester 2001-2004
Impreza 2002-2004

1999 Legacy only: Passive arming of the optional 1999 alarm system.
The dealer could program the alarm to arm automatically whether the doors are locked or not. In this mode the doors must be manually locked or using the power lock button or the remote.
In Passive Mode the system will automatically activate in one minute but will not lock the doors. it will arm the alarm even if the doors are not locked. Lock the doors using the power lock switch with the door open. If you are using the remote to lock the doors, there would be no reason to set Passive Mode because locking with the remote would arm the alarm anyway so I'm not sure why this function exists.... To open the doors use the remote or the key, but then the alarm will go off and you'll need
To set Passive Mode:
Open driver's door and remove the plastic step sill that curves up toward the front.
Connect the single-pole white connectors.

Subaru remote keyless entry and alarmSubaru keyless & alarm remotethe plain gray buttons were used 99-01, colored buttons for 2002-04
 

replacement note: this style remote has been discontinued and replaced by the new 'TEARDROP' style in late 2009. See your local dealer.
new design 2005 Impreza Keyless remote fob
 

How To Use The Alpine Alarm
Battery #CR2032.
Range? App 50ft. Battery fade, other cars, buildings, walls etc affect range.

1. Locking. Push the large button. This locks all the doors and will set the alarm (if equipped and in setable mode).

2. Unlocking. Push the small button once to unlock the driver's door and disarm alarm, if set. Push the small button a second time to unlock all the doors.

3. Honking horn?
On 1999-2002 models the horn honks once for lock and twice for unlock, 3 times if a door is not closed. This audible honk feature is optional. To turn it off or to turn it on unlock all the doors and hold *both* buttons down until the horn honks once. The horn will always honk 3 times if a door is not fully closed when you lock it.
This was changed in 2003, models to a 'chirp'. There is no longer an audible honk feature. If a door is ajar the system will chirp 5x and the lights flash.

4. Alarm. (optional)
System chirps when locked with the remote if you have an alarm, and no you can't turn the chirp off.

5. Valet mode or alarm off: alarm light (red dot center dashboard display) rapidly flashing 3 times means the alarm is in "Valet" mode and is not setable. The light will stop flashing when you start the car.
To set valet mode or just to disable the security alarm system: 1. unlock all doors 2. physically open the driver's door 3. hold the UNLOCK button on remote for 2+ seconds or so. The red 'security' light will then flash 2 times a second until the car is turned on.

6. Arming the alarm: to make an alarm in valet model arm-able, unlock all the doors and hold the small button down on the remote until the light stops flashing. Now when you lock the doors the alarm will be set and the light will flash on and off, on and off.

7. Alarm goes off?
Push the small button on the remote
OVERRIDING the alarm when you don't have a Remote to disable it.
If you don't have the remote put the key in the ignition and turn it on and off three times and the car will start on the 4th time

8. Program remotes: works on Alpine system.

Unlock all doors, foot on brake, all doors closed. Cycle key quickly but carefully on-off appr 10 times until the car honks one time.
Do not turn the key far enough to start the car, just to the 'on' position so the dashboard lights up.

When the horn honks, open and close the driver's door, press any remote button and that's it.
Program another remote? Quickly open and close the driver's door again and push a button on the 2nd remote. That's it.

When you're done, remove the key and  the horn should honk 3 times. You're all set.
Sometime it takes more than 10 on-offs to set program mode. Open/close the door, lock/unlock etc, wait 10 minutes, then try again.

more detailed instructions
If your car is equipped with security system disarm it (with another remote if you have one or by turning the key ON LOCK 3 times in 5 seconds).
Take the key out of ignition (the key has to be taken out).
The next steps have to completed in 45 seconds.
Open and close driver door (the door open light has to come on/off on the cluster).
Put the key into ignition.
Turn the key ON LOCK 10 times in 15 seconds, leaving the key in LOCK position (do not take the key out).
Horn will sound once to indicate you are in remote programing mode (if the horn does not sound start over).
Open and close the driver door (this has to be done within 45 seconds of step 4).
Press and release any button on the remote.
Horn will sound 2 times to indicate that the remote has been programed.
If you have more remotes, repeat steps 8 to 10 (up to 4 remotes could be programed).
Remove the key from ignition.
Horn will sound 3 times to indicate the completion of the procedure.



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CODE ALARM SYSTEM
information is always subject to change and correction

Used on:
Impreza 1996-2001
Legacy 1995-1999
Forester 1998-2000

SubaruCodeAlarmremoteBattery GP-23A

Lock:  Left button will lock all doors. Double chirp indicates locked.
Unlock: Right button will unlock driver's door only. Hold unlock button app 6 seconds, it will unlock all doors including rear gate. Single chirp indicated unlock.
If the car chirps or lights flash 4x the alarm was triggered.
Panic. Press both buttons to activate emergency honk and flashing lights.
Valet mode: With optional alarm only Press the red alarm button on the left of the steering wheel. The light will quickly double flash. To re-set back to normal mode, press the red alarm light button again
 

Battery failed and lights flashing?
Parking lights will flash when the vehicle's battery is disconnected and reconnected.
To stop lights from flashing, either:
Press remote transmitter “UNLOCK” button once OR turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position and press programming button for one second (see below).
The vehicle interior (courtesy) light and door open warning light (DOOR AJAR indicator) will then illuminate for 60 seconds when the ignition is turned off, or until the doors are locked with the remote transmitter. Yes, the dashboard instrument panel lights will flash when the parking lights flash.

Programming or Overriding the Alarm when you have lost the remote
Open driver's door.
Turn ignition key to 'On'
Press and *hold programming button* in (see diagram, button under dashboard)
After 15 seconds the the door locks will cycle 3 times. Do not release Programming button
Press lock (left) button the remotes to be programmed. The door locks will cycle one time.
Exit programming mode by releasing Programming button under dashboard and turning key to off.
 

how to program Subaru alarmCode Alarm Programming Button is under dashboard on the kick panel by the driver's left knee, left of the steering column. If you can't find it, it might still be tucked up in the wiring harness higher up in that same general area. The botton is recessed in a plastic ring (see diagram).
This button must be pressed while programming remotes or if the battery was disconnected and the lights are flashing.

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SVX remote entry

SVX ALARM 1992-97
Operating instructions for the standard remote entry and alarm. (from owners manual, TSBs).
information is always subject to change and correction

When activated the SVX security system helps protect your car and valuables from intrusion and theft by sounding the horn, flashing the lights, and interrupting the starter circuit.

Early SVX alarm systems gave off false alarms due to a bad connection in the main Security switch on the dashboard. If you still have this, be sure to leave it in the 'on' position, and Subaru recommended turning it on-off every week or so with the car parked and the engine running just to keep the connection clean.

  • Turning the system on and off. With the ignition turned off, press the dashboard on/off switch marked 'security'. The system is on when the lighted switch flashes, and off when the light is out.
  • To re-program existing remotes if the battery is dead/replaced etc.
    The remotes must be re-programmed whenever the battery is dead/disconnected. The parking lights will flash and the electronic module will click which means it's time to reprogram. Subaru warns damage to the relay might happen if the remotes are not programmed promptly when the battery is reconnected.

    The antenna for the system is behind the glove box, so point the remotes in that general area and press the button on the remotes slowly and firmly a total of 5 times. This means if you are using 1 remote, push it slowly 5x, if you are using 2 remotes push 1 3x and the other 2x, again a total of 5 times. The parking lights flash each time.

    To program NEW remotes
    Turn the dashboard Security switch off (no light).
    Turn the ignition switch on-off, leave off with key in ignition.
    Immediately and -quickly- repeatedly tap the dashboard security switch on-off until the horn starts to beep. The system will indicate programming mode by the parking lights flashing and control unit clicking.
    I'm told the SVX can be hard to get into programming mode, so be patient and start tapping the security switch immediately and quickly after turning the ignition switch on-off, and keep tapping it until the horn beeps.
    If you get bored, start again, which you might have to do anyway I'm told. It might take a number of attempts to get into programming mode.

    When in programming mode then:
    push the remote 4 times which means....
    1 remote: push the remote slowly and firmly 4x
    doing 2 remotes? push each remote button slowly anf firmly 2x, for a total of 4x

    When done: To complete turn the ignition switch on-off and make sure the parking lights aren't flashing anymore and remove the key.

    Update Note:  the SVX theft deterrent system was upgraded for the 92 1/2 model, and retrofitted free for all customers whose SVX's had the original theft deterrent system-- consisting of a new security module and a new security system switch. This unit has a permanent memory, and only requires programming for new remotes. To do so, turn the security system switch off. Insert the key and turn it on and off twice, leaving the key in the ignition. Immediately begin pressing the security switch button  on and off rapidly untill the horn beeps (this may take many, many times). You should also hear the security module clicking (it is behind the glove box for models with one airbag). Once the horn beeps, immediately push the button on each remote, twice. The horn will also beep each time the button is pressed to indicate the transmitter frequency was recorded. After programming the second key, cycle the iginition switch on and off to exit the programming mode (this may have to be done twice to effectively exit). That should do it. If not, try again.
    Not using the keyless entry for an extended period of time may result in the need to replace the module. You'll know this if the lock/unlock feature does not work after audible evidence that the new remotes were effectively programmed (i.e. the horn beeped during the programming process) or if the lock/unlock feature is slow to function (i.e. you have to push and hold the remote button for an inordinately long time before the lock/unlock feature operates).
    information is always subject to change and correction
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    Thanks to Chris from Au for this information Feb 2006. Note that it is completely unchecked and unconfirmed by me.

    "NON-US Foresters, 1997 to at least 1999, standard keyless central locking remote control only, no alarm.

    How it looks:

    Feb 2006.
    How to find:
    Call up your local wreckers until you find one. May take a while, but someone would keep them ( I found one after all). Cost about 30 Australian Dollars used from a wrecker, cost new 285 Australian Dollars from the Dealership plus 30 Aus Dollars reprogramming.

    How to program:
    Undo the plastic door sill protector (driver door with right hand drive model)
    Undo the trianglish plastic plate at the front of the sill protector, right to your gas pedal just at the lower front corner of the doorframe
    Hidden under the plate are two cable ends with plastic plugs, possibly clear/whitish. Connect (doesn’t matter whether the window is up or down, the door closed or shut, or the key in ignition or not)
    Press “Lock” on the working remote, then immediately afterwards “Lock” on the new one. Then press  “Open” with the working remote and straight afterwards “Open” with the new one. That's it.
    Don't forget to undo the cables again and re-assemble your car ;o)"

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    Comments, suggestion?
    Joe Spitz

    All information and formatting C. J Spitz. Unauthorized reproduction, copying or use prohibited
    information is always subject to change and correction