How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a lot of money by having your spare key made prior to the time you lose your last one. If you have only one key, it's typically 2X-10X as expensive to make an original one.
Change the battery on your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, inexpensive and easy to do yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car, but its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which could be a major hassle while driving. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This will save you money in the long run, and is more effective than waiting.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll need to buy a new key fob case that is compatible with your vehicle and an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require special attention because they include a transponder that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can scan the code of your existing keys and use that information to program your new key. This process could be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.
A good suggestion is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They can provide you with keys at a lower cost than a dealer. They can also provide other services like key duplication and replacement so you'll be able to have a backup key for your car in the event that it gets lost or damaged.
Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip that is built inside the key to start and recognize your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they have chip. However, there are a few exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with an internal resistor) do not require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car that has keys-less entry systems, it may be important to have a spare key or remote. It can be used in the event that the original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it could lower the cost of replacing the remote.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. The majority of these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically designed specifically for this purpose. If you require an additional key for your car, you'll need to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealer will not charge you as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car, and there are a lot of them still in operation all over the world. However, there is a major issue with these vehicles and that is their ignition key. The key is very small and not a great design, and it's known to break or become stuck easily. In fact, many people find themselves without a functioning key after only a few years of owning the vehicle.
It's easy to obtain an additional key for your SAAB. First, you must remove the emergency key. saab car keys 's a simple task that you can do yourself, and you don't need any tools. You should be careful, though in case you force the process too hard, you could harm the electronics inside it.
Then, you will need to locate a place that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily, but if know where to search, you should have no difficulty finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll need to cut it and programmable to your car.
It's not cheap to purchase a brand new SAAB key, but the cost is worth it. It's less expensive than replacing your entire vehicle and it will save you a lot of time. If you only have one key that is working it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this could cause a lot frustration and expense.