How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose your last one can save you huge cost. If you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X as costly to make an entirely new one.
It's cheap, easy and simple to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle but the ignition key can be prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and buttons can be pushed out. This can cause inconvenience when driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is much better than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not difficult and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob that will work with your vehicle, as well as an entirely new battery. It is necessary to open the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronics to give you the chance to replace the battery. After you have removed the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require particular attention because they have a transponder chip which needs to be programmed to the particular vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can read the code on your keys and then use that information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't have a spare.
A good tip is to look for a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They can make you key at a cheaper cost than a dealer. They can also do other services like key duplication and replacement, so you'll have a spare car key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars made after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip embedded into the key in order to identify and start your vehicle. This is the reason these kinds of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than those without chips. However, there are some exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor inside) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their 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. It can be used in case your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that provides key add-on protection, then this will help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need an alternative key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge less than the locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car and there are many of them that are still in use across the globe today. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or get stuck. Many have been without a functioning key within just a few years of buying their car.
saab keys to find an extra key for your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure which you can complete yourself and doesn't require any tools whatsoever. Be careful though, as if you press it too hard, you could damage its electronic components.
The next step is to locate a store that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You may not be able find these cases easily, but if know where to look you should have no problem finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmable to your car.
The process of getting an entirely new key for your SAAB could be quite costly however it's worth it in the long run. It's less expensive than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it will save you a lot of time. If you have only one key that is working it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which can lead to an abundance of frustration and cost.