How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose your last one can save you big cash. If you only have one key, it's 2X-10X more expensive to create an entirely new one.
It's cheap, easy and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's How to Program saab 9-3 key fob.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle but the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this can be a major How to Program saab 9-3 key fob inconvenience when you're driving around. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This will save you money over the long term, and is much better than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need to buy a replacement key fob shell which will work with your car, as well as an additional battery. It is necessary to open the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronics to give you the chance to replace the battery. After this is done you can simply insert the new battery and then restart the key fob's synchronization to your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require particular attention due to transponder chips that needs to be programmed to the particular vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of saab key battery replacement. The tool can detect the code on your keys that are already in use, and then use this information to program the replacement key. This process could be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you do not already have a spare.
An excellent tip is to locate locksmiths who work on Saabs. They'll be able to design and make the new key for lower cost than the dealer. They can also perform other services, like key replacement or duplication so that you have an additional key in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars that are made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that utilize a chip embedded into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they are equipped with a chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value within) do not require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is important to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in case your original key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it could lower the cost of replacing the remote.
Most car keys for cars that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. If you require to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car, and there are a lot of them still in operation across the globe today. The ignition key is the biggest issue in these cars. The key is small and has a poor design and is known to fall out or get stuck easily. Many people find themselves without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning the car.
It is, however, possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and this can be done quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure that you can perform yourself, and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. It is important to be cautious, however as if you press the process too hard, you might cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then have to find a store that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to locate these cases easily, but if you know where to 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 car.
The process of getting the new key for your SAAB could be quite costly, but it is definitely worth it in the long run. It's a lot cheaper than replacing the entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount of time. If you're only left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as possible. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, which could cause a lot of frustration and cost.