How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the last one can save you huge cost. When you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X as expensive to make an original one.
Switching the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car however, its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case could become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which could be a major hassle when driving around. It's important to replace your key fob right away if you notice any issues. This can save you lots of money in the end and is more beneficial than procrastinating.
You can change the SAAB's key fob yourself for less than $100. You'll need an additional shell for your key fob, which is compatible with your car as well as an entirely new battery. It is necessary to open the case of your old SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change the battery. After removing the electronics you can replace the battery and then synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular attention because they include an electronic transponder that needs to be programmed for your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool is able to analyze the codes from your existing keys and then use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more involved and can cost you up to $500 from the dealer.
A good idea is to find locksmiths who work on Saabs. These professionals will be able to create an entirely new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They also offer other services, such as key replacement and duplication to ensure you have an additional key in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built into the key in order to start and recognize the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they have chip. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor value within) do not require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is important to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that the original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on insurance, this can help reduce the cost.
Most car keys for cars that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. They are typically stored in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will cost you less than the locksmith.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a good portion of them are still in use today. However, there is a big problem with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is very small and not a great design and can break or become stuck easily. In reality, many have a non-functioning key after just a few years of owning the car.
Luckily, you can obtain an additional key for your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is a straightforward process that you can do yourself and does not require any tools whatsoever. You'll need to be careful however, because if press it too hard, you could damage its electronic components.
You will then need to find a shop where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. These are not always easy to find, but once you know where to look then you should be able find one quite easily. Once lost saab keys have found an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your car.
It can be expensive to get a new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It's much less expensive and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working it is recommended to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, and this can lead to an abundance of frustration and expense.