How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied prior to losing the previous one can save you huge cash. If you have only one key, it's 2X-10X the cost to make an entirely new one.
It's inexpensive, simple and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car, but its ignition key can be susceptible to wearing down. The case may become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this could be a major hassle when you're driving around. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This will save you a lot of money in the end and is also more efficient than procrastinating.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll need a replacement shell for your key fob that will work with your car, as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that come with a remote start system need special attention due to a transponder chip in them which needs to be programmed for your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for the model you have of Saab. saab ignition key replacement can read the code of your keys and use this information to program the replacement key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more involved and can cost you as much as $500 from the dealer.
A good tip is to look for locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can create keys at a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services like key duplication and replacement, so you'll be able to keep a backup car key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which depend on a microchip that is built inside the key to begin and recognize your car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. However, there are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor value inside) do not require programming and are cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons, it can lower the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not charge the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car, and there are a lot of them that are still in use across the globe today. The ignition key is the biggest issue for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or get stuck. In reality, many find themselves without a working key after just a few years of owning a car.
Fortunately, it is possible to find an additional key to your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. First, take out the emergency key. This is an easy process that you can carry out yourself and doesn't require any tools at all. You'll need to be careful when you force it too hard you could damage the electronic components.
You will then be required to find a retailer that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily, but if know where to look, you should not have any problem finding one. If you find a replacement case you'll need it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
It's expensive to purchase a new SAAB key, but the cost is worth it. It's much less expensive and quicker than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you're left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, which could cause a lot of frustration and cost.