How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having a spare key made before you lose your previous one. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a new key if you're down to one.
It's cheap, easy and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle however the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons may be pushed out. This could be a issue while driving. It's crucial to replace your key fob as soon as possible when you notice any issues. This will save you money in the long run, and is much better than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You will need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob that is compatible with your car, as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you have removed the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start system need special care because they contain a transponder chip that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. The tool can analyze the codes from your existing keys and then use the information to program your new key. This process can be more complex and can cost up to $500 if your don't have a spare.
An excellent tip is to try and find a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. These professionals can make you the key at a lower price than the dealer. They can also do other services like key duplication and replacement, making it possible to have a spare car key in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
Most European cars made after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built into the key in order to begin and recognize your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they have chip. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it's important to have an extra key or remote. This will give you one in the event that your key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be very costly. If you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on protection, then this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. Typically, replacement saab key are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by an appropriate computer designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get an additional key for your car, you will have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will charge less than the locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and a lot of are still in use today. The ignition key is the most significant issue for these cars. The key is tiny and not a great design and is known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key in a few years after purchasing their car.
It's easy to obtain a spare key for your SAAB. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is a simple process which you can complete yourself and doesn't require any tools whatsoever. You must be careful, though when you push it too hard then you could damage the electronics within it.
You will then have to locate a shop that offers an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily, but if know where to search, you should have no trouble finding one. Once you've found the replacement key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmed to your car.
The process of getting the new key for your SAAB could be quite costly but it's worth it in the end. It's cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount 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 you're likely lose it and this could cause lots of frustration and cost.