Joseph Weaver Subaru cars come with a lot of convenient features, but sometimes finding your way around these features can be a little tricky. One of the features that may cause confusion for some Subaru owners is the rear gate lock. Understanding how to properly secure your rear gate is crucial for the safety and security of your vehicle. Whether you are a new Subaru owner or just need a refresher, this comprehensive guide will break down the steps to locking your Subaru rear gate.
Identifying Subaru’s Rear Gate Locking Mechanisms
Before diving in, let’s take a closer look at Subaru’s rear gate locking mechanisms. Subaru cars come with two different types of rear gate locks: the manual lock and the electronic lock.
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Manual Lock: This is the traditional key lock that you typically find in older cars. It manually locks and unlocks the rear gate by inserting the key into the keyhole and turning it.
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Electronic Lock: This is the new-age lock that functions with the help of the key fob. It automatically locks and unlocks the rear gate when you use the remote button on the key fob.
How to Use Subaru’s Key Fob to Lock the Rear Gate
Subaru’s electronic locking mechanism makes securing your car a breeze. Just follow these simple steps to use the key fob to lock the rear gate:
- Ensure the car is parked and the engine is turned off.
- Press the lock button on the key fob.
- Listen for a beep sound to confirm that the car has been locked, and the rear gate is secured.
It’s important to note that if the key fob doesn’t work, you may need to change the battery. Consult the car manual for instructions on how to switch the battery.
How to Manually Lock Subaru’s Rear Gate
The manual lock is useful when the electronic locking mechanism fails due to battery drainage or other issues. Here are the steps to manually lock Subaru’s rear gate:
- Insert the key into the keyhole located on the rear gate handle.
- Turn the key clockwise to lock the gate.
- Verify that the gate is locked by giving it a gentle tug. If it does not open, then it is locked.
Maintaining Subaru’s Rear Gate Locking System
Like any other part of a car, the rear gate locking system requires regular maintenance to remain in good working order. Here are some tips on how to maintain the locking system:
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Lubricate the keyhole: Use graphite powder to lubricate the keyhole of the manual lock. This will prevent the lock from sticking and make turning the key easier.
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Protect the electronic lock: Avoid exposing the electronic lock to water or abrasive materials, which can cause damage to the sensors. Also, ensure that the key fob battery is regularly replaced.
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Check the alignment: Ensure the rear gate is properly aligned with the locking mechanism, and the latch engages correctly. Misaligned gates can cause problems with the locking mechanism, leading to premature wear and tear.
FAQ
Q. Can I lock my rear gate without using the key fob or manual lock?
A. No, Subaru cars only come with these two locking mechanisms to secure the rear gate.
Q. Can I use the manual lock if the electronic lock is damaged?
A. Yes, the manual lock is a backup mechanism in case of electronic lock failure.
Conclusion
Locking your Subaru’s rear gate should be a straightforward process. Just remember to familiarize yourself with the different types of locking mechanisms and maintain them periodically. Following these steps will help ensure the safety and security of your car and its passengers.
