How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money by getting your spare key made before you lose your first one. It's typically 2X-10X cheaper to create a brand new key when you are only left with one.
It's inexpensive, simple and simple to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however, the ignition key tends to wear out. saab ignition key replacement can become sticky and the buttons may fall out. This can be a issue when 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 better than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll need a new key fob case that will work with your vehicle and an additional battery. You'll need to open up the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronics to give you the chance to replace the battery. After this is done you can simply insert the new battery and then resynchronize the key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular care, since they have a transponder that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. This tool will be able to scan the code on the keys you have and then use this information to program your replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complex and can cost you as much as $500 from the dealer.
A good idea is to locate a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. These experts will be able of making you an entirely new key at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They also offer other services such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll be able to have a spare car key in the event that it gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars that are made after 2000 have immobilizers that use a chip integrated into the key that can recognize and start your vehicle. This is why these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. However, there are some exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor value within) do not require programming and are cheap to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. This is because these brands don't allow their dealers to participate in NASTF, which is the organization that creates the tools other automotive locksmiths use to make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This will allow you to have one in the event that your key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could reduce the cost of a remote replacement.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 were programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. They are typically stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically designed specifically for this purpose. If you need a replacement 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 a beautiful car and there are many of them still in use around the world today. However, there's one big problem with these cars and it's the ignition key. The key is extremely small and is not the most attractive design and it's known to break or become stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key within the first few years of purchasing their car.
It's easy to get a spare key to use with your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple procedure that you can carry out yourself and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. Be careful though, as if you force it too hard you could harm its electronics.
You will then need to locate a place that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to locate these cases easily, but if you know where search, you should have no trouble finding one. When you locate a replacement case you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your car.
It can be expensive to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle. It also can save you a significant amount of time. If you have only one key that is working you should replace it as quickly as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it and this could cause lots of frustration and expense.