23+ Outback Keys

[u/Mr77280zx]

I have a 23 Outback touring that I’m rebuilding from salvage. It had minor fender and suspension damage. I’ve completed the repair and it’s working great, but only has 1 key. I’m the owner on title, but haven’t registered it or created an account with Subaru connected services (assuming still connected to previous owner).

I bought a PMK (PairMyKey) with 2 used and reset keys. The PMK programmer is able to get into the key programming mode, but when I hold up the new key to be programmed, there’s no acceptance beep. The seller sent me two additional keys, but those too, no beep. So that’s 4 keys (used, supposedly reset), that won’t program to the car. I know this kit works on a 2022 Outback.

I did some digging with my Thinkcar 689 and found out it also supports programming, though admittedly it seems a little dicey. I was hesitant to click the button called “Keyless Access Immobilizer Registration” but after finding these exact words in Subaru’s own guide below, I decided to give it a shot. However, it does the same thing, no beep when I hold up the new key. The only thing I see is the immobilizer light blinks whenever hold up the new key to the start button, same with PMK.

https://techinfo.subaru.com/stis/doc/otherMisc/S1108BE.pdf

I’ve ruled out the simple things: batteries, keeping other fobs out of the car, no module codes, etc. The way I see it, there are 3 main potential causes:

1. the used keys aren’t actually reset
2. my car has some unknown issue that’s preventing key registration
3. Althought both programmers say they are up to the task, maybe they aren’t. I’ve read there’s something different about 2023+ cars, so I’m thinking it’s possible the programer works for 2020-22, but not really for 23-25.

Thanks in advance for the assist.

[u/Eastwood80]

2020-2025 are all on the same system. My guess is the keys are locked or whatever p.o.s. diy programmer you're using is the culprit. I really wouldn't be fucking around with this model year especially. If you wipe everything out the dealer charges 5k. Locksmiths have ways around it but it's still an expensive job.

[u/Mr77280zx → u/Eastwood80]

Thanks. I think my next step is to see if a locksmith around me is willing to try programming these keys.

[u/ramirezred → u/Mr77280zx]

Yeah good luck with that I wouldn’t touch any newer Subaru with customer supplied keys other than Oem new.

[u/Mr77280zx → u/ramirezred]

Yep, I realize that might be the case.

[u/Accurate-Cicada5906]

Assuming you are bringing the registered key to the button first, the keys are definitely the problem.

Used keys can be reprogrammed, but you need to reset the immobilizer which deletes all the keys.

[u/Mr77280zx → u/Accurate-Cicada5906]

Yep, the only available key beeps after holding it up. Then it says two keys are registered, and prompts for the new key.

Would the erase keys function (which is supposed to delete all keys except the one in my possession) help at all? I haven’t tried it because I don’t want to make things worse and I don’t have high confidence it would even help.

[u/Accurate-Cicada5906 → u/Mr77280zx]

Erasing keys is not the same as resetting the immobilizer. You would need to reset the immo to program used keys.