2012 Subaru Legacy Smart Key Remote Fob Programming Instructions

Important Notice: The 2012 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a keyless entry system that can store up to four unique remote fob codes. This system allows you to program new remotes and remove older or lost ones. Each remote includes an 8-digit identification number required during the programming process. This code is typically printed on the packaging or inside the remote, either on a label or directly on the circuit board. Before you begin, read through the entire procedure. The steps must be performed in quick succession to complete the programming successfully.

Programming a New Remote

• Step 1: Sit in the driver’s seat. Ensure all doors, including the trunk or liftgate, are closed completely.
• Step 2: Open and close the driver’s door once.
• Step 3: Within 45 seconds, open and close the driver’s door again.
• Step 4: Insert the key into the ignition. Turn it from the LOCK position to the ON position (without starting the engine) ten times within 15 seconds. After the tenth turn, you should hear a single electronic tone followed by a continuous buzzer, and the interior light will begin flashing. These indicators confirm the system has entered programming mode. If no signals occur, exit the vehicle and restart from Step 3.
• Step 5: Within 45 seconds of entering programming mode, open and close the driver’s door once more. This should trigger a 30-second electronic tone, indicating the system is ready to receive the remote’s code. If the tone does not sound or the timing exceeds the limit, return to Step 3. Entering the 8-Digit Code
• Step 6: Before the tone ends, begin entering the 8-digit remote code using the driver’s power door lock switch: Press the LOCK button the number of times equal to the first digit of your code. Within five seconds, press the UNLOCK button once to confirm and move to the next digit. Repeat this for all eight digits. After completing the final digit, press UNLOCK once more.
• Step 7: Immediately repeat the entire 8-digit code entry a second time. If both entries match, you will hear a 30-second confirmation tone. If there’s a mismatch or any delay over five seconds between presses, an error will occur. Restart from Step 5. If six entry errors occur in a row, begin again from Step 3. Adding Additional Remotes
• Step 8: To program additional remotes (up to four total), repeat Steps 4 through 7 for each fob individually.
• Step 9: Once all remotes are programmed, remove the key from the ignition. The system will exit programming mode automatically.
• Step 10: Test each remote to ensure the lock, unlock, and other keyless functions work properly. Erasing Old or Lost Remote Codes If a remote is lost or replaced, its code remains stored in the system. For security reasons, it’s important to clear these codes. To remove outdated remotes, overwrite all four memory slots with your current remotes: If you have one remote, program it four times. If you have two, program each one twice. If you have three, program one remote twice, and the others once each. This ensures only your active remotes remain in memory.

Security Tip:

• During programming, avoid having any other remotes operated nearby. If another transmitter is triggered during the procedure, it may be unintentionally programmed into your system, allowing unauthorized access.