How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the last one can save you huge cash. If you have only one key, it's 2X-10X as expensive to make a new one.
Changing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy affordable and easy to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle, but the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case could become slick and the buttons could be pushed out. This can cause pain while driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will help you save money in the long run, and it's also better than waiting.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob by yourself for less than $100. You'll need to buy a replacement key fob shell that will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that come with a remote start feature require special attention since they feature a transponder chip that must be programmed to your particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool will read the code of your keys and then use this information to program your new key. This process can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if your don't have a spare.
A good suggestion is to look for a locksmith who works on Saabs. saab 9-3 key not accepted contact service will be able to create a new key at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They also offer other services, like key replacement and duplicates, to ensure that you have an extra key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which depend on a microchip that is built into the key to start and recognize your vehicle. This is why these types of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have a chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor inside) don't require programming and are cheap to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches made after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplicates. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of 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 the event that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it will lower the cost of a remote replacement.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. Typically, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by an appropriate computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need a replacement key for your car, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge you less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing automobile and there are a number of them that are still in use all over the world. However, there is a big problem with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is tiny and is not the most attractive design and it's known to fall out or get stuck easily. In reality, many are left without a functioning key within a couple of 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, you must remove the emergency key. It's an easy task is done by yourself and you don't need any tools. You should be cautious, however as if you press it too hard then you could damage the electronics inside of it.
You will then need to locate a store where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to find these cases readily, but if you know where look you should have no difficulty finding one. When you locate a replacement case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
It can be expensive to get a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It's cheaper than replacing your entire vehicle. It also will save you a lot of time. If you're stuck with one working key, it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, which can lead to lots of frustration and expense.
