How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied prior to losing the previous one can save you huge money. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to make a new key when you are down to just one.
Changing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, inexpensive and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car, but its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case may become sticky and the buttons can be pushed out, which can be a major inconvenience while driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This can help you save money in the long run and is also more efficient than putting off the task.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need an additional key fob shell that is compatible with your vehicle, and a new battery. You'll have to open the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change 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 special care because they contain a transponder chip in them which needs to be programmed for your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for the model you have of Saab. This tool is able to identify the code on your existing keys and use this information to program your new key. This process is more complex and can cost up to $500 if you do not already have an extra.
It is an excellent idea to find an expert locksmith who is associated with Saabs. They can make you a key for a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, like key replacement or duplication so that you have another key in case yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip embedded into the key in order to begin and recognize the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they are equipped with an embedded chip. However, there are some exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value inside) don't require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches produced after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplicates. This is because these brands do not permit their dealers to participate in NASTF which is the organization that makes the tools that other automotive locksmiths use to create keys that can be used to replace their customers' keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is crucial to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be expensive, especially if you have an insurance policy with key add-on protection, then it can reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by an appropriate computer designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get an additional key for your vehicle, you will need to go to the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not cost the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car, and there are plenty of them still in operation all over the world. However, there's a major issue with these vehicles and that's their ignition keys. The key is tiny and is not the most attractive design and it's known to fall out or get stuck easily. In reality, many find themselves without a working key after just a few years of owning the vehicle.
Fortunately, it is possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and it is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. G28CarKeys 's a simple task that is done by yourself and you don't require any tools. Be cautious when you press it too hard you could damage the electronics.
Then, you will have to locate a shop that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by, but If you know where to look, you should be able find one fairly easily. Once you've found a new key case, you'll need to cut it and programmed to your car.
The process of obtaining an additional key for your SAAB isn't cheap, but it is definitely worth it in the end. It's less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle and it can save you a significant amount of time. So if you're down to one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, and this can lead to lots of frustration and expense.