How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose your last one can save you huge cost. When you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X as expensive to make an entirely new one.
The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case could become slick and buttons can be pushed out. This can be a issue while driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This could save you a lot of cash in the long run as well as being more effective than putting off repairs.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need the replacement key fob that is compatible with your car, as well as an additional battery. To replace saab 9-5 key replacement G28 , you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you have removed the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have the remote start system need special attention since they feature a transponder chip that needs to be programmed to your particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can read the code 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 complex and can cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is best to locate an locksmith who works with Saabs. They can make you a key for a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services such as key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a spare car key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 feature immobilizer systems that use a chip integrated into the key to recognize and start your car. This is why these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have the chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical and have a resistor inside) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
If you have a Saab vehicle that has a keyless entry system then it is important to have an extra key or remote. This will allow you to have one in the event that the original key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy with key add-on coverage, this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your car, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealership will not charge you as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a beautiful automobile and there are a number of them in use around the world today. But, there's a major issue with these cars and it's their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or get stuck. In reality, a lot of people are left without a functioning key after only a few years of owning the vehicle.
It's easy to get a spare key for your SAAB. First, take out the emergency key. This is a straightforward process that you can carry out yourself and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. You'll need to be careful when you force it too hard, you could damage its electronics.
You'll need to locate a store where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to find these cases readily, however if you know where to search, you should have no problem finding one. When you locate an appropriate case replacement you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your car.
The process of getting an additional key for your SAAB can be expensive however, it's worth it in the long run. It's cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working you should replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when it could be lost, and this can cause a lot frustration and expense.