How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money by having a spare key made prior to the time you lose the one you have. It's usually 2X-10X more costly to create a brand new key if you're down to one.
It's simple, inexpensive and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car but the ignition key can be prone to wear down. The case could become slick and the buttons can be pushed out. This could be a inconvenience while driving. This is why it's a good idea to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This could save you a lot of money in the end as well as being more effective than procrastinating.
Replacing the SAAB key fob is not difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You will need to purchase an alternative shell for your key fob that's compatible with your car as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've done this you can easily put the new battery and then resynchronize the key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require special attention, as they contain transponders that need to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can read the code on your keys that are already in use and use this information to program your replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more involved and can cost up to $500 from the dealer.
A good suggestion is to find locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. saab key fob will be able to create the new key for lower cost than the dealer. They can also do other services such as key duplication and replacement, making it possible to have a spare car key in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip that is built into the key to start and recognize the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they are equipped with a chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value in them) do not require programming and are inexpensive to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because these brands don't allow their dealers to join NASTF which is the organization which makes the tools other automotive locksmiths make keys replacements for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage, this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge you less than the locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a beautiful car and there are many of them still in use across the globe today. The ignition key is probably the biggest issue with these cars. The key is very small and doesn't have a very appealing design, and it's known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key in a few years after purchasing their vehicle.
Fortunately, it is possible to obtain an additional key for your SAAB and this is done quite quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's an easy task you can do yourself, and you don't require any tools. Be cautious however, because if you press it too hard, you could damage its electronics.
You'll need to find a shop where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You may not be able locate these cases easily, but if know where to look, you should have no problem finding one. Once you find an appropriate case replacement you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your car.
It's not cheap to buy a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive than replacing your entire vehicle and it could save you lots of time. If you're left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced immediately. You don't know when it could be lost, and this can cause a lot frustration and cost.