How to Reduce Your
Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a lot of money by getting your spare key before you lose your first one. If you have only one key, it's usually 2X-10X as expensive to make the new one.
It's simple, inexpensive and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle, but the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons may be pushed out. This can cause discomfort when driving. It's crucial to change your key fob promptly in the event of any issues. This can save you a lot of cash in the long run as well as being more effective than putting off the task.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll have to purchase the replacement key fob that is compatible with your vehicle and a new battery. You'll have to open the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronics to give you the chance to replace the battery. Once you've completed this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then restart the key fob's synchronization to your car.
saab Key programmer keys that have remote start systems require special attention since they come with transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your
saab key fob model to accomplish this. The tool can scan the code of your keys that you have and use that information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you do not already have a spare.
A good idea is to locate a locksmith who works on Saabs. These professionals will be able to design and make an entirely new key at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a backup key for your car in the event that it gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars built after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip embedded into the key in order to identify and start your car. This is the reason why these types of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than keys without chips. However, there are a few exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value inside) do not require programming and are affordable to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and
saab 9-3 key replacement vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car that features keyless entry, it's important to have a spare remote or key. It can be used in the event that your primary key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key accessories this can help reduce the cost of a remote replacement.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. They are typically locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically designed for that purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your vehicle you must visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge you less than the locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and a good portion of remain in use in the present. The ignition key is the main problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or get stuck. In fact, many people find themselves without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning the vehicle.
Luckily, it's possible to get an extra key for your
saab key fob programming and this can be done fairly quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that you can complete yourself and you don't need any tools. You should be careful, however as if you press it too much, you might harm the electronics inside it.
You'll need to find a location that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases readily, but if know where to search, you should have no difficulty finding one. Once you find a replacement case you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
The process of getting a new key for your SAAB can be very expensive however it's worth it in the long run. It's less expensive and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working you should replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when it could be lost, and this can cause a lot of stress and cost.