How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose your last one can save you big money. It's typically 2X-10X cheaper to make a new key when you're only left with one.
It's easy, cheap and simple to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car however its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case may become sticky and the buttons can be pushed out. This can be a issue while driving. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is more effective than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob, which is compatible with your car as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've done this, you can easily fit the new battery and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention since they come with transponders that need to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can read the code from your keys, and use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this procedure is more complicated and could cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is recommended to find a locksmith that works with Saabs. They will be able to design and make a new key at lower cost than the 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 yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars that are made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that use a chip integrated into the key that can recognize and start your car. saab 9-3 key not accepted contact service are more expensive to duplicate because they contain chips. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor value within) do not require programming and are affordable to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplicates. This is because these brands do not permit their dealers to be part of NASTF which is the group that creates the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector use to create replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that provides 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. Typically, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed for that purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will not cost as much as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a beautiful car, and there are plenty of them still in use all over the world. However, there is a big problem with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. In reality, many find themselves without a working key after only a few years of owning the car.
It's easy to get an extra key for your SAAB. First, you need to remove the emergency key. This is an easy process that you can perform yourself and it doesn't require any tools at all. You should be cautious however, because if push it too hard you could damage its electronics.
The next step is to find a location that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. These are not always easy to come by however once you know where to look then you are likely to find one quite easily. Once you have found an appropriate case replacement it is necessary to have it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
The process of getting a new key for your SAAB can be expensive but it's worth it in the end. It's cheaper and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, which can cause a lot frustration and cost.