How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having your spare key before you lose your previous one. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key when you're down to just one.
Switching the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
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 could fall out. This can be a pain when driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will save you money in the end, and is more effective than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase the replacement key fob that is compatible with your car, as well as an additional battery. You'll need to open up the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components to give you the chance to replace the battery. After this is done you can simply insert the new battery and then resynchronize the key fob with your car.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention since they come with a transponder that must be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. This tool can read the code from your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more involved and may cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is a good idea to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. They can make you key at a cheaper price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, like key replacement and duplication, to ensure that you have an additional key in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip embedded inside the key to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they contain chip. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical and have a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The NASTF group creates the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car that has keys-less entry systems, it's important to have a spare remote or key. You can use it in the event that your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage, this can help reduce the cost.
saab key programmer of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. They are typically locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by an appropriate computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership isn't going to cost the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car and there are many of them still in use around the world today. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem in these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. In fact, many people are left without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning a car.
It's easy to get an extra key for your SAAB. First, you need to remove the emergency key. It's an easy task you can do yourself, and you don't need any tools. You'll need to be careful however, because if force it too hard you could damage the electronics.
You'll need to find a shop that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You may not be able find these cases readily, but if you know where to search, you should have no problem finding one. Once you've found the replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmed to your car.
It's costly to get a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It's a lot cheaper than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it can save you a lot of time. If you have only one key working you should replace it as soon as you can. You never know when you're going to lose it, which could cause an abundance of frustration and cost.