How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you big cost. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to create a new key when you are only left with one.
The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however, the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and buttons can be pushed out. This can be a pain when driving. It is essential to change your key fob promptly in the event of any issues. This can save you a significant amount of money over the long term as well as being more effective than procrastinating.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not difficult and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need the replacement key fob that will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize your key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start feature require special attention since they feature transponder chips which needs to be programmed to your particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. The tool will read the code of your keys and use this information to program your new key. This process could be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't have a spare.
A good tip is to try and find a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They can create the key at a lower cost than a dealer. They can also do other services, like key duplication and replacement, so you'll keep a backup car key in the event that it gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a chip that is built into the key to identify and start your car. This is the reason why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have chips. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical and have a resistor inside) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The NASTF group creates the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car that features a keyless entry system then it's important to have an extra key or remote. It can be used in the event that your primary key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can lower the cost of replacing the remote.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually locked in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. If you need to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge you less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a lot of remain in use today. saab replacement key programming is the biggest problem in these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or get stuck. In fact, many people have a non-functioning key within a couple of years of owning the car.
Fortunately, it is possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and it is done quite quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure that you can do yourself and does not require any tools at all. You must be careful, however, because if you force it too much, you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then have to find a store that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You may not be able find these cases readily, but if you know where to look you should have no trouble finding one. Once you have found a replacement case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to fit your car.
It's not cheap to get a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's less expensive than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it 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 could lead to many frustrations and cost.