Question 1

My key broke or the shell is cracking. Can you fix it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Subaru key shells wear out over time, and cheap aftermarket replacements are known for thin plastic and broken buttons. Subaru specialist locksmiths offer shell replacement services where they transfer your original factory electronics into a new quality housing. That preserves your programming so you do not need to reprogram anything. If the blade itself is broken or the transponder chip is damaged, we can cut a new blade from the original code and program a full replacement key on site.

Question 2

What is a Smart Key?

Accepted Answer

A Smart Key is the type of key your 2020 Subaru WRX uses. It contains a programmed chip that communicates with your vehicle's immobilizer system to verify it is an authorized key before the engine will start. It also has 4 buttons for remote lock, unlock, and other functions. On older Subaru models with separate blade keys and remote fobs, you may have two pieces that work together. On newer push-to-start models, everything is built into a single smart fob with a hidden emergency blade inside.

Question 3

My Subaru says key not detected. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

First, try holding the fob directly against the push-to-start button and pressing. Your Subaru can power the transponder chip even when the fob battery is completely dead, so this backup method lets you start the car in an emergency. If that works, replace the battery with a fresh CR2032. If holding the fob to the button does not work, there may be a vehicle-side issue. Multiple 2023 Outback owners report a recurring smart key not detected glitch where the car powers on but will not crank, then resolves itself after 10 to 15 minutes. A 2020 Outback owner had the same issue after using Starlink remote start.

Question 4

What is the FCC ID for the 2020 Subaru WRX key?

Accepted Answer

The FCC ID is HYQ14AHK. This is the identifier printed on the back of your key fob that tells us exactly which key your vehicle requires. It ensures we match the correct blank, chip frequency, and remote protocol so the key programs correctly on the first attempt. If your existing key is damaged and you cannot read the FCC ID on the back, give us your VIN and we can look it up to confirm the right replacement.

Question 5

Is all-keys-lost more expensive than a regular replacement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When you have at least one working key, adding a spare is a straightforward programming job. When every key is lost, the Subaru immobilizer needs to be fully reset, which on newer push-to-start models can involve EEPROM work, bench programming, or even module replacement. A 2020 Forester owner was told losing both smart keys would cost around $2,000 at the dealer for module replacements. A WRX owner saw quotes of $2,400 for one key out the door when the module had to be shipped. The gap between add-a-key and all-keys-lost is dramatic on Subaru, which is why we always recommend getting a spare while you still have a working key.

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