How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you significant cost. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a brand new key when you are down to just one.
It's simple, inexpensive and simple 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 however its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case may become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which can be a huge hassle when driving around. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will save you money in the long run, and is better than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to buy a new key fob case which will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. You'll need to remove the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronics to give an opportunity to replace 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 systems require particular attention because they include an electronic transponder that needs to be programmed to match your specific 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 keys, and use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more involved and may cost up to $500 from the dealer.
A good suggestion is to look for a locksmith who works on Saabs. They can provide you with the key at a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services like key replacement and duplication to ensure that you have another key in case yours is lost or damaged.
Most European cars built after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip embedded into the key to recognize and start the car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have chips. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have a resistor inside) do not require programming and can be duplicated inexpensively. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because the manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF, which is the group that produces the tools other locksmiths in the automotive industry utilize to create keys replacements for their customers.
saab car key replacement of Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it is important to have a spare remote or key. It can be used in the event that your original key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key accessories this can help reduce the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires a new key for your vehicle you have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealer will not cost the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a lot of are still in use today. The ignition key is the biggest problem for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or become stuck. Many people have found themselves lacking a key that worked within the first few years of purchasing their car.
Fortunately, it is possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and this is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple job you can perform yourself, and you don't need any tools. You will need to be cautious, however when you push the process too hard, you could damage the electronics inside of it.
The next step is to find a location where you can purchase an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by, but if you know where to look, you should be able find one quickly. If you find a replacement case, you'll need to have it programmed and cut to fit your car.
It's expensive to buy a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you're left with one working key then it's ideal to replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it and this could cause many frustrations and cost.