Saab owners must follow a set of unique steps to add a second ignition key. This requires the use of a handheld computer, known as Tech-2, to be used by the dealer. Then a new car key and transponder have to be purchased and programmed to the car.
Make sure to rotate your keys in order to prevent one from wearing out quicker than the next. This will also keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs do not look like the older Saab keys. saab 93 replacement key have electronics that make them difficult to copy. This has made stealing cars considerably more difficult than it was years ago. It has also made it more expensive to replace keys lost.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys working. It costs a fortune to replace a lost key because it requires replacing the CIM module, as well as changing the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100 and $200 to complete this.
There are some ways around these high cost. Some parts retailers will search for the code from an old key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns the ignition) and cut a new metal key blade for a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key, however, must be identical to the original in order to function within your car.
You can also replace the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need a flathead and patience. With the screwdriver, break away the plastic and take out the emergency key. Once the case is open, remove all electronics and put them back in the new case. Place the key with the correct badge into the case.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is an affordable part that can be replaced quickly and easily. This YouTube DIY video Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the battery for the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial is suitable for any modern saab key fob though the process may vary slightly.
The first step is to find the button that opens the backup key inside the fob. This is usually located near the Saab logo on the back of the fob. Then take an screwdriver with a flat head to insert into the tiny hole in this button. This should be enough to open the case of the fob so that you can replace the battery.
After you have installed the new CR1632 batteries, you can rebuild your remote key fob. Then, you can program it into your car. The procedure should take no more than a half hour at the most. This is a very easy process that doesn't require any special tools.
If you lose a key the process will be a bit more involved but it is still able to be completed. The dealer has to first verify the VIN of the vehicle and order a replacement TWICE module and key blade with the correct unique code. After that, they'll be required to cut the replacement key and then program it with an innovative software tool called MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is the part that locks and unlocks your car, it's got batteries inside. Batteries have a limited lifespan and will eventually fail. This is a problem that occurs with all cars. The good news is that you can replace the battery on most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. Amazon sells fobs for replacement that already have all the electronic components in place. You can simply pop the case open and replace the batteries. It's important to note that you will need to remove the emergency key first. you can accomplish this by inserting the small screwdriver flathead into the slot located in the middle of the case. Use the screwdriver to move around the case, and it will split open, making it much easier to remove.
If you're ready to replace your keys, keep a spare on hand. This can save you a lot of money. If you have a spare you can ask the dealer to cut a new key and program it into your car, which is cheaper than replacing the entire key fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add another key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. The cost for adding a second key is around a hundred dollars and also requires programming of the car's computer. Professionals can accomplish this but it's not a cheap option.
Replacement Ignition
In contrast to the earlier Saab cars, the modern SAAB 9-3 models have a much more sophisticated alarm system that is based on a coded key. If you lose your primary key, it may be costly to get another one since the car must have a specific computer installed and also be programmed to accept a brand new key. Dealers can charge hundreds of dollars to program an entirely new key, in the event that they are unable to do it.
If you've lost only one working key and a dealer is able to replace the computer in your car (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to make a replacement, and will charge you a premium price for it. We can reprogram the EEPROM inside your car's computer so that it is ready for an extra key. This will save you more than 50% on the cost you would pay at a dealer.
If you've been an owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you likely are aware that the ignition key isn't the most robust. They can be extremely sticky and the buttons are known to be ripped off from time to time and you should think about buying a new one if the one you have isn't working properly. The good news is that replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it seems, and it is fairly easy to do using the proper tools.
