You can save lots of money by having your spare key before you lose your last one. If you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X the cost to make an entirely new one.
It's simple, inexpensive and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car, but its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case may become sticky and buttons can fall out. This can be a issue when driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This could save you lots of cash in the long run and is also more efficient than waiting.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob yourself for less than $100. You will need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob, which is compatible with your car and a new battery. You'll have to open the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components, giving you the opportunity to change the battery. After you have removed the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with remote start system need special attention due to a transponder chip in them that must be programmed to the particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool is able to scan the code of your existing keys and use that information to program your new key. This process could be more complex and can cost up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.
An excellent tip is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They can create keys at a lower price than the dealer. They also provide other services like key replacement or duplication so that you have an extra key in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built into the key in order to identify and start the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they contain chips. However, there are a few exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have an internal resistor) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches produced after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplication. This is because these manufacturers don't allow their dealers to join NASTF which is the group which makes the tools other locksmiths in the automotive industry use to create replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of a New Remote
If you own a Saab vehicle that has a keyless entry system then it is important to have a spare remote or key. This will allow you to have one in the case that your original key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can reduce the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you need a replacement key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not charge you as much as locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and a lot of them are still in operation today. However, there's a major issue with these vehicles and it's the ignition key. The key is extremely small and not a great design and it's known to be lost or stuck easily. Many people have found themselves without a functioning key in just a few years of buying their vehicle.
It is, however, possible to obtain an additional key for your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. First, you need to remove the emergency key. It's an easy task you can complete yourself and you don't need any tools. Be cautious when you press it too hard, you could damage its electronics.
You will then be required to find a retailer that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. saab 9-3 key fob programming is possible that you won't be able to locate these cases easily, but if you know where to look, you should have no problem finding one. Once you've found a new key case, you'll need to cut it and programmed to your car.
It's costly to purchase a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It's much less expensive and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If you're stuck with one key that works, it's recommended to replace it immediately. You never know when you're going to lose it, and this could result in many frustrations and expense.
