2016 Subaru Impreza
Key Replacement - Save vs Dealer in Ventura County

Q: How much more does all-keys-lost cost compared to just adding a spare?

More. Sometimes significantly more. When you still have one working fob, adding a spare is a cleaner job. The immobilizer already has a registered key to work from and the process is faster. When every key is gone on a push-button Subaru like the 2016 Impreza, the vehicle security system has to be fully reset before any new fob can be enrolled. That reset is a longer procedure, takes more time on site, and costs more as a result.

Q: Are aftermarket fobs cheaper and do they actually work on the 2016 Impreza?

Aftermarket fobs are cheaper upfront. Whether they work is a different question. The 2016 Impreza smart key system is specific about what it will accept during programming. Some aftermarket fobs from lower-tier suppliers have compatibility issues that only show up when you try to enroll them, meaning you paid for the part and it still doesn't program. Owners on Subaru forums have reported exactly that situation, usually after buying something online and then needing a locksmith anyway.

Q: My 2016 Impreza is showing a key warning on the dash even though I'm holding the fob. What's going on?

A few things can cause that. First, battery. The CR2032 in the 2016 Impreza fob can read as functional on a battery tester but still not have enough output to communicate reliably with the vehicle antenna. Swap it fresh before anything else, and when you do, make sure the battery is seated flat with solid contact on both sides of the housing. If a new battery doesn't clear it, the fob itself may have taken a hit.

Q: Can I buy a fob on eBay and have you program it to my 2016 Impreza?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no, and there's no way to know until we try it. The factory fob for your vehicle has a specific part number and the fob you bring needs to match it. If it does, and it hasn't been previously locked to another vehicle in a way that blocks re-registration, programming usually works fine. If it's a counterfeit, a wrong-generation fob that looks identical, or a unit that was previously enrolled and improperly cleared, it may not take.

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Whether you lost your only key, it was stolen, or it just stopped working, we handle it. No existing key needed. Our technicians program new keys directly to your vehicle's computer.

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Stranded without a 2016 Subaru Impreza key? EZ Car Keyz Santa Barbara CA can help

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2016 Subaru Impreza
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Lost Subaru Key: Tow vs Mobile Fix

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Wait Time

✓ 20-45 min

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All Keys Lost

✓ No problem

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✓ Yes

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2016 Subaru Impreza Smart Key Replacement - Fast, Affordable & Professional

I got a call from the Westside around 10:30 at night. Guy was in a laundromat parking lot off Hollister. Night shift worker, one key to his name, and it was gone somewhere between the machines and the lot. He didn't know his VIN, didn't have his registration on him, and was already looking up tow companies because he thought that was the only move.

I kept him on the phone. Told him to walk to the car and look through the windshield at the base of the glass on the driver's side. He found the 17-digit number right there under the wiper line. Then I asked if he had an insurance app. He did. Registration was in it. That was everything I needed.

By the time I pulled out of my own driveway I already had the right fob blank and knew exactly what I was dealing with: a 2016 Impreza smart key setup, 4-button fob, CR2032. I prepped on the way.

I got there, verified his ID against the VIN, and got to work under the parking lot lights. Cut the emergency insert blade, built out the fob, ran the programming through the diagnostic port. Both functions confirmed, every button checked, door handles tested. He stood there watching the whole thing like he still wasn't sure it was going to work.

It worked. He drove home that night. The dealer was closed, and even if they weren't, this would have taken days and a tow on top of it. The VIN through the windshield glass is the one thing that starts the whole job. If you're ever stuck, that's step one.

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Lockout to Five-Star Review

Lost key panic turned to five-star praise

M

Marianne S.

Aug 2022

★★★★★

“I had two fob keys made for my Subaru. Marco provided excellent service and persevered through three parts orders to get the keys I needed. He is very thorough in making sure everything is working properly. Communication and punctuality are also to be commended.”

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Jay C.

Apr 2023

★★★★★

“I had two dogs locked in the car and was having a horrible day. Joe showed up quick and made all my problems go away. Only use these guys. They are literally the very best!”

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Chris S.

Jan 2024

★★★★★

“Great prices, easy to work with, great communication and arrived within 30 minutes. I will definitely call again when the need arises.”

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Locked out rescue review for 2016 Subaru Impreza - EZ Car Keyz Santa Barbara CA

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Subaru Impreza Mobile Service FAQ

Real costs, no dealer surprises

What is the cheapest way to replace a smart key for the 2016 Subaru Impreza?▼

Call a mobile locksmith before you call the dealer. Subaru dealer pricing on smart key replacements tends to run high, and on top of the key itself you may be looking at a service appointment that's days out, plus the cost of getting the car there if it won't start. With EZ Car Keyz you get the fob built, programmed, and tested on site. No tow, no appointment wait, no module shipping.