Subaru Legacy: Immobilizer

Subaru Legacy: Immobilizer

The immobilizer system is designed to prevent an unauthorized person from starting the engine. Only keys registered with your vehicle’s immobilizer system can be used to operate your vehicle. Even if an unregistered key fits into the ignition switch and can be turned to the “START” position, the engine will automatically stop after several seconds.

Each immobilizer key contains a transponder in which the key’s ID code is stored. When a key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to the “ON” position, the transponder transmits the key’s ID code to the immobilizer system’s receiver. If the transmitted ID code matches the ID code registered in the immobilizer system, the system allows the engine to be started. Since the ID code is transmitted and acted upon almost instantly, the immobilizer system does not impede normal starting of the engine. If the engine does not start, pull out the key once before trying again. Refer to “Ignition switch” F3-3.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-Gen of IC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

● Do not place the key under direct sunlight or anywhere it may become hot.
● Do not get the key wet. If the key gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth immediately.
● FCC WARNING Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE

To protect your vehicle from theft, please pay close attention to the following security precautions:
● Never leave your vehicle unattended with its keys inside.
● Before leaving your vehicle, close all windows and lock the doors (all models) and rear gate (Outback).
● Do not leave spare keys or any record of your key number in the vehicle.

• Security ID plate
• Security indicator light
• Key replacement

Security ID plate

1) Key number plate
2) Security ID plate

The security ID is stamped on the security ID plate attached to the key set. Write down the security ID and keep it in another safe place, not in the vehicle. This number is needed to make a replacement key if you lose your key or lock it inside the vehicle.

To make replacement keys, the key number is also needed. Refer to “Key replacement” F2-4.

The security ID is also needed for replacement or repair of the engine control unit, integrated unit, combination meter (all models) and security control unit (Canada-spec. models).

Security indicator light

The security indicator light deters potential thieves by indicating that the vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer system. It begins flashing approximately 60 seconds after the ignition switch is turned from the “ON” position to the “Acc” or “LOCK” position or immediately after the key is pulled out.

If the security indicator light does not flash, the immobilizer system may be malfunctioning. If this occurs, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. In case an unauthorized key is used (e.g. an imitation key), the security indicator light illuminates.

NOTE

Even if the security indicator light flashes irregularly or its fuse blows (the light does not flash if its fuse is blown), the immobilizer system will function normally.

Key replacement

Your key number plate and security ID plate will be required if you ever need a replacement key made. Any new key must be registered for use with your vehicle’s immobilizer system before it can be used. Up to four keys can be registered for use with one vehicle.

For security, all the keys registered with your vehicle’s immobilizer system will have their ID codes erased and reregistered when a new key is made.

Therefore, all of your vehicle’s keys must be presented when a new key is registered. Any key that is not re-registered when a new key is made cannot be used after the other keys are re-registered. For information on replacement keys and on the registration of keys with your immobilizer system, contact your SUBARU dealer.

KeysDoor locks