How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the last one can save you huge cash. If you have only one key, it's 2X-10X as costly to make a new one.
Change the battery on the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple to do yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car, but its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this can be a real pain when you're driving. It's crucial to change your key fob promptly in the event of any issues. This will save you a significant amount of money in the long run and is also more efficient than procrastinating.
You can replace a SAAB's keys fob yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that is compatible with your vehicle and an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have the remote start system need special attention because they have an embedded transponder chip that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. This tool will be able to scan the code on your keys that are already in use and then use that information to program the replacement key. This process is more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't have an extra.
It is a good idea to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. These experts will be able of making you an entirely new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They can also do other services, like key duplication and replacement making it possible to have a backup key for your car in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a chip that is built into the key to identify and start your vehicle. This is the reason why these types of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than those without the chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical and have an internal resistor) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car with keyless entry, it may be important to have an extra key or remote. It can be used in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons this can help lower the cost of a replacement remote.
Most car keys for cars manufactured after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you require a replacement key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will not cost as much as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car, and there are plenty of them still in operation around the world today. The ignition key is probably the biggest issue in these cars. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design, and it's known to be lost or stuck easily. In fact, many people find themselves without a working key after just a few years of owning the car.
Luckily, you can obtain an additional key for your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. First, you need to remove the emergency key. This is a straightforward process that you can perform yourself and does not require any tools at all. You'll need to be careful however, because if you press it too hard you could damage its electronics.
You will then need to find a location where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to find these cases easily but if you know where look you should have no trouble finding one. Once you have found an appropriate case replacement you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your vehicle.
The process of getting the new key for your SAAB could be quite costly but it's worth it in the end. It's much less expensive and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If saab ignition key replacement left with one key that works, it's best to get it replaced as soon as possible. You never know when it might be lost, and this could result in a lot of frustration and expense.