Not true.

If you keep the battery disconnected for a LONG period of time i.e. few weeks, a month, the Brant keypad will need the master code entered before it'll operate normally, otherwise you'll be locked out and you wont be able to start the car.

A few hours to install a gauge or a fuel pump, won't be an issue.

I think its about time we did something about this master code business, Subaru feeds this bullshit to a lot of owners and makes them tow the car out for no particular reason at all, just to make a quick buck. Its a real scandal IMHO.

A particular dealership used to give the code out over the phone, once all ownership details were confirmed as entered into Subaru's computer....it worked for me, and saved me a tow and a $50 fee!