How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you big cost. It's usually 2X-10X more costly to create a brand new key when you're down to just one.
The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, cheap and simple to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle but the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons could be pushed out. This can cause issue when driving. It's essential to change your key fob promptly in the event of any issues. This will save you money in the end, and is much better than waiting.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob that will work with your vehicle as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you have removed the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention since they come with transponders that need to be programmed for your specific 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. This tool can scan the code on your existing keys, and then use this information to program your replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more involved and may cost up to $500 from the dealer.
An excellent tip is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They'll be able to make you the new key for an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also provide other services like key replacement and duplicates, so that you can have an extra key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
saab key replacement that are made after 2000 have immobilizers that depend on a chip that is built into the key to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they have chips. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is important to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in case your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be expensive, especially if you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on coverage, this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. They are typically stored in a small EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. This means that if you need a new key for your vehicle, you will need to go to the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge you less than the locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and a large number of them are still in use in the present. However, there's one big problem with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and has a poor design and can lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key in the first few years of purchasing their vehicle.
It's simple to find an extra key for your SAAB. First, remove the emergency key. This is a straightforward process that you can perform yourself and doesn't require any tools at all. You must be cautious, however, because if you force it too much, you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then need to locate a store where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. These are not always easy to come by however once you know where to look, you should be able find one fairly easily. Once you have found 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 end. It's a lot cheaper than replacing your entire vehicle. It also can save you a lot of time. If you have only one key working it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this could cause a lot frustration and expense.