How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money by having a spare key manufactured before you lose your first one. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a brand new key if you're only left with one.
Change the battery on the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do it yourself. Here's how.
saab 9-3 key of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car however its ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case may become sticky and the buttons may fall out. This could be a pain when driving. It's important to replace your key fob immediately when you notice any issues. This can save you lots of money over the long term as well as being more effective than putting off the task.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for around $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell that will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. You'll need to remove the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change the battery. After you have removed the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize your key fob with your car.
SAAB keys with remote start system require particular attention since they feature a transponder chip that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need an instrument designed for dealers called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool can scan the code on the keys you have, and then use this information to program the replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more complicated and could cost up to $500 from the dealer.
A good tip is to try and find locksmiths who work on Saabs. These professionals will be able to create keys at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They also offer other services, such as key replacement and duplicates, so that you can have an additional key in the event yours is lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars built after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built inside the key to identify and start the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they are equipped with chips. However, there are some exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor value in them) don't require programming and are affordable to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. This is because these brands do not permit their dealers to join NASTF, which is the organization which makes the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector use to make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is important to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in the event that the original key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons, it can reduce the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. They are typically locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed specifically for this purpose. If you need to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will cost you less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car, and there are plenty of them still in use around the world today. However, there's one major issue with these cars and it's their ignition key. The key is tiny and is not the most attractive design and is known to break or become stuck easily. Many people have found themselves without a functioning keys within a few years after purchasing their car.
It's easy to obtain a spare key for your SAAB. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure that you can do yourself and it does not require any tools whatsoever. You'll need to be careful though, as if you force it too hard, you could damage its electronic components.
Then, you will have to find a store that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find, but if you know where to look then you should be able to find one quite easily. If you find a replacement case it is necessary to have it programmed and cut to fit your car.
The process of obtaining an additional key for your SAAB could be quite costly however, it's worth it in the end. It's cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you're left with one working key, it's best to get it replaced as soon as possible. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which could cause an abundance of frustration and cost.