How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you significant money. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key if you're down to one.
The process of replacing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, inexpensive and easy to do yourself. Here's how.
saab 9-5 key replacement of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle however, the ignition key can be prone to wear out. The case can become sticky and the buttons may be pushed out. This could be a inconvenience when driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This can save you a lot of money over the long term as well as being more effective than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can make it yourself for about $100. You will need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that will work with your vehicle and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully remove the electronics from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've done this you can simply insert the new battery into place and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system need special attention since they feature a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your particular vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool can analyze the codes from your keys that you have and use this information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if your don't have a spare.
A good tip is to find a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They can provide you with keys at a lower cost than the dealer. They also offer other services, such as key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a backup car key in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built into the key in order to identify and start your car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value within) do not require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is crucial to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can lower the cost of a remote replacement.
Most car keys for cars produced after 2000 were programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you require an additional key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will charge you less than the locksmith.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a lot of remain in use in the present. But, there's a huge issue with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is tiny and not a great design and is known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. In fact, many people find themselves without a working key after only a few years of owning their car.
Fortunately, it is possible to find an additional key to your SAAB and this is a simple process. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's a simple task that you can complete yourself and you don't require any tools. You'll need to be careful however, because if you overdo it you could damage its electronics.
You'll need to locate a store that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find however once you know where to look, you will be able to locate one fairly easily. Once you've found a new key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmed to your car.
The process of getting an entirely new key for your SAAB can be expensive however, it's worth it in the end. It's much less expensive than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it will save you a lot of time. If you're left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, and this can lead to an abundance of frustration and cost.