How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having a spare key made prior to the time you lose your last one. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to make a new key if you're down to one.
It's cheap, easy and simple to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
lost saab key of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however its ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this can be a real pain when you're driving. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This can save you lots of money in the long run and is also more efficient than putting off the task.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need a replacement shell for your key fob that will work with your car, as well as an entirely new battery. You'll need to open up the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronics to give you an opportunity to replace the battery. After removing the electronics you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special care, since they have a transponder that must be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. The tool can identify the code on your keys, and use the information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more complex and can cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is an excellent idea to find locksmiths who work with Saabs. These professionals will be able of making you the new key for an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also provide other services such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll be able to keep a backup car key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars that are made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that use a chip integrated inside the key to detect and start your car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor value in them) don't require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories this can help reduce the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if you need a new key for your car, you will need to go to the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will cost you less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a large number of are still in use today. However, there's a big problem with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design and can lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many people find themselves without a functioning key after only a few years of owning the vehicle.
Fortunately, it is possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and it can be done quickly. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure that you can do yourself, and it does not require any tools whatsoever. You will need to be cautious, however, because if you force it too hard then you might cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then need to locate a store where you can purchase an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by however when you know where to look then you should be able to find one easily. Once you find an appropriate case replacement it is necessary to have it programmed and cut to fit your car.
It can be expensive to purchase a new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It is much cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and that can cause a lot of frustration and expense.