How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money if you get your spare key before you lose your last one. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key when you're only left with one.
Change the battery on the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple affordable and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
saab 93 replacement key of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle however the ignition key tends to wear out. The case can become sticky and the buttons could fall out. This can cause discomfort when driving. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This could help you save cash in the long run as well as being more effective than waiting.
You can replace a SAAB's keys fob by yourself for less than $100. You'll need to buy the replacement key fob that can be used with your vehicle, and an additional battery. You'll have to open the case of your old SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components, giving you the opportunity to change the battery. After this is done you can simply insert the new battery into place and then reconnect the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system need special attention due to a transponder chip in them that needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. The tool can read the code of your keys that are already in use and use this information to program your replacement key. This process can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you do not already have a spare.
An excellent tip is to try and find a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They will be able to design and make an entirely new key at less than the dealer. They also offer other services, including key replacement and duplicates, so that you can have another key in case yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars that are made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that utilize a chip embedded into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. This is why these kinds of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those without a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical, with an internal resistor) do not require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because these manufacturers do not allow dealers to participate in NASTF, which is the organization that makes the tools that other locksmiths in the automotive sector make keys replacements for their customers.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car that features keys-less entry systems, it is important to have an extra key or remote. It can be used in the event that the original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote could be expensive, especially if you have an insurance policy with key add-on coverage then this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get an additional key for your vehicle you must visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge you the same amount as locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and a large number of them are still in use in the present. The ignition key is the biggest issue for these cars. The key is tiny and has a poor 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 car.
Luckily, it's possible to get an additional key for your SAAB and it can be done quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that is done by yourself and you don't need any tools. You should be cautious, however as if you press the process too hard, you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then need to find a shop 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 easily, however if you know where to look you should have no problem finding one. Once you find an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it programmed and cut to fit your car.
It's not cheap to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's a lot cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle and it can save you a significant amount 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 will be lost, and this could result in a lot of frustration and cost.