How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you significant cash. If you have only one key, it's usually 2X-10X as costly to make a new one.
Changing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however, its ignition key can be susceptible to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons are known to fall out, and this could be a major hassle when you're driving. It's essential to replace your key fob as soon as possible whenever you notice any problems. This will help you save cash in the long run and is more beneficial than putting off repairs.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need a new key fob case that is compatible with your car, as well as an additional battery. You'll have to open the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change the battery. Once you've done this you can simply insert the new battery and then resynchronize the key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys that come with a remote start system need special attention since they feature a transponder chip in them which needs to be programmed for your specific vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool is able to scan the code of your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. This process can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you do not already have an extra.
An excellent tip is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They will be able to create a new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They also offer other services like key replacement and duplication, to ensure that you have another key in case yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars built after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated into the key in order to start and recognize your car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have 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 relatively inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because the manufacturers do not permit dealers to join NASTF, which is the group that creates the tools other locksmiths in the automotive industry use to make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote could be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy with key add-on coverage then it can reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you require an alternative key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will charge you less than the locksmith.
saab 9-3 key fob replacement thekeylab.co.uk -3 is a beautiful automobile and there are a number of them still in operation around the world today. The ignition key is the main issue in these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or get stuck. Many have been without a functioning keys within the first few years of purchasing their vehicle.
It's easy to get a spare key for your SAAB. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's an easy task you can complete yourself and you don't require any tools. You will need to be careful, though as if you press it too hard then you might cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You will then need to locate a place that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They can be difficult to come by however if you know where to look then you should be able find one quite easily. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll need to have it cut and programmable to your car.
It's not cheap to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. So if you're down to one working key, it's recommended to replace it as soon as possible. You never know when the key will be lost, and this can cause a lot frustration and cost.