How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a lot of money by getting your spare key manufactured before you lose the one you have. If you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X as costly to make the new one.
The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy affordable and easy to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car, but its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out. This can cause inconvenience while driving. It's important to replace your key fob immediately whenever you notice any problems. This will save you lots of money in the long run, and it's also better than procrastinating.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob by yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase an alternative shell for your key fob that will work with your vehicle and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics you can replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with remote start system require particular care because they contain a transponder chip in them that must be programmed to the particular vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent for the model you have of Saab. The tool can read the code of the keys you have and then use this information to program the replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more involved and can cost you as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is a good idea to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. These professionals can make you a key for a lower cost than the dealer. They also offer other services, such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll have a backup key for your car in the event that yours is damaged or lost.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated inside the key to start and recognize your car. This is why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than keys without a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical and have an internal resistor) don't require programming and can be duplicated relatively inexpensively. However, the majority of 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. This group makes the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it is important to have a spare key or remote. It can be used in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on protection, then it can reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. If you require to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealership will not charge you the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a good portion of remain in use in the present. The ignition key is the main issue with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. Many people have a non-functioning key after just a few years of owning the vehicle.
It is, however, possible to find an additional key to your SAAB and it is a simple process. First, remove G28CarKeys . It's a simple task that you can perform yourself, and you don't need any tools. Be cautious however, because if you force it too hard you could harm its electronic components.
Then, you'll need to locate a place that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by, but once you know where to look, you should be able find one fairly easily. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll need to cut it and programmable to your car.
It's expensive to buy a new SAAB key, but the cost is worth it. It's a lot cheaper than replacing the entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount of time. If you're left with one working key, it's best to get it replaced in the earliest time possible. You never know when you're going to lose it and this can lead to lots of frustration and cost.