How to Reduce Your
Saab Replacement Keys Key Replacement Cost
You can save a lot of money by having your spare key made before you lose your previous one. If you have only one key, it's 2X-10X as costly to make an entirely new one.
Changing the battery in the
saab key fob programming 9-3 key fob is simple and inexpensive to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however its ignition key can be susceptible to wearing down. The case could become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which can be a major inconvenience when you're driving around. It's crucial to change your key fob promptly whenever you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end and is far better than putting off the replacement.
You can replace a SAAB's keys fob by yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle and an entirely new battery. You'll need to remove the case of your old SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change the battery. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require particular attention because they have an embedded transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. This tool can read the code from your existing keys and use that information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more involved and may cost up to $500 from the dealer.
It is a good idea to find an expert locksmith who is associated with Saabs. They will be able to make you keys at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also do 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 damaged or lost.
Most European cars that are made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that depend on a chip that is built into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they are equipped with an embedded chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value inside) do not require programming and are relatively inexpensive to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you have a
saab key with keyless entry. It can be used in case your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be very costly. If you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on protection, then it can reduce the cost.
Most car keys for cars that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need a replacement key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car and there are many of them still in use across the globe today. The ignition key is probably the biggest issue for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or get stuck. Many people have found themselves without a functioning keys within a few years after purchasing their vehicle.
It is, however, possible to obtain an additional key for your
saab 93 key fob and this is a simple process. 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 require any tools. You will need to be careful, though when you push it too hard then you could damage the electronics inside of it.
Then, you'll have to locate a shop that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your
saab 9-3 key fob replacement. They can be difficult to find, but if you know where to look then you should be able to find one quickly. Once you've found a replacement key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmed to your vehicle.
The process of getting the new key for your SAAB can be very expensive but it's worth it in the long run. It's much less expensive and quicker than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key that is working it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely lose it and this can lead to an abundance of frustration and expense.