How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having your spare key made prior to the time you lose the one you have. If you have only one key, it's 2X-10X the cost to make a new one.
The process of replacing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car but the ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case may become sticky and the buttons may be pushed out. This could be a inconvenience while driving. This is the reason it's best 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.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll have to purchase a replacement key fob shell that will work with your vehicle and a new battery. You'll need to open up the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to replace the battery. After this is done, you can easily fit the new battery and then reconnect the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start system require particular attention since they feature a transponder chip in them that needs to be programmed to the specific vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. This tool can read the code from your keys that you have and use the information to program your new key. This process can be more complex and can cost up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.
A good suggestion is to look for a locksmith who works on Saabs. These professionals will be able to create a new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. how to program saab 9-3 key fob can also provide other services, such as key replacement or duplication to ensure that you have an additional key in the event the original one is damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars that are made after 2000 feature immobilizer systems that depend on a chip that is built into the key to identify and start your vehicle. This is the reason why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than keys without chips. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated inexpensively. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches made after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplication. This is because these manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF which is the group which makes the tools other locksmiths for automobiles utilize to create keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car that features keys-less entry systems, it's important to have a spare remote or key. It can be used in case your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can lower the cost of replacing the remote.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The majority of these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed for that purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get a new key for your car, you will need to go to the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge you less than locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing automobile and there are a number of them still in use all over the world. But, there's a big problem with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. Many people find themselves without a working key after only a few years of owning their car.
It's simple to find a spare key for your SAAB. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's an easy task you can do yourself, and you don't require any tools. You should be cautious when you force it too hard, you could damage its electronics.
You'll need to find a place where you can buy 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 to find one quite easily. Once you find a replacement case you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your car.
It's expensive to get a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's cheaper and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, and this could lead to many frustrations and cost.