Saab cars produced since 1994 feature an immobilizer system based on a set of keys. The addition of a key requires a new transponder and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this can be extremely expensive. This is why you should always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder is a piece of key that is equipped with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it matches that of the key. If the signals are identical it will open itself and start. This is a great way to avoid auto theft and keep your car safe from thieves.
Transponder keys are a favored feature in cars, but it is important to know that they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. The metal component of a traditional key can be easily copied and cut, but a transponder has an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip has a unique code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and allow it to be turned on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it is equipped with an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. Otherwise, the car will reject the key and not start.
It is essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly true for those who live in a rural area with numerous car thieves. The good part is that you can find a replacement key to your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealership and pay the expensive prices that they demand. In the majority of instances, you can get a brand new key made right on the spot at a fraction of the cost of what you'd pay at a dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you own only one, you need to purchase an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car is damaged, it will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially for cars that are used.
The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. There is no standard method to accomplish this, but it is important to think about how you will route and solder the columns and rows. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.
After the columns and rows are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. To do this, you need to place a diode across each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins on the key switch from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode permits current to only flow in one direction. It features a visual indicator, a black band, that indicates the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools available at auto parts stores- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can assist customers at the shop or DIY users in some cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and guide the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the car's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep an assortment of tools in their trunks to jump start a vehicle in an emergency, but it might not be a good idea for vehicles that are newer. These vehicles are equipped with computers and digital devices which communicate with one another. A voltage surge while a battery is hooked up to another could cause damage to these components and render your car unable to drive.
Start the working vehicle and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the disabled one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in sparks, which could ignite the gasoline that is in the engine compartment.
Once saab key fob are connected the vehicle that is disabled and allow it to run for around five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, so it may take some time for the battery to come back to its original level. It is recommended to purchase a second key fob, as soon as you can. Replacing the only one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.
Replacement case
Saab owners typically only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it's expensive to purchase a new key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It is best to have a second key in the event of theft or other disaster the best solution is to buy an extra key as soon as you are able to. Even if the key is "new", it won't work.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help with a single working key, and the dealer will charge you high fees to replace the computer in your vehicle to create a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM to be able to accept a new key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's also much less expensive than waiting until you lose the only key.
