How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you big cash. When you only have one key, it's 2X-10X the cost to make a new one.
It's inexpensive, simple and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car but the ignition key can be prone to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out. This can cause discomfort when driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will save you money in the long run, and is far better than putting off the replacement.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not difficult and you can do it yourself for around $100. You'll need the replacement key fob that can be used with your car, as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your car.
SAAB keys that have the remote start system require special attention due to transponder chips that must be programmed to the 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 existing keys and then use this information to program your new key. This process can be more complex and can cost up to $500 if your don't have an extra.
It is best to locate locksmiths who work with Saabs. These professionals can make you a key for a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key duplication and replacement, making it possible to have a spare car key in the event that it gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizers that rely on a chip built 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 exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value within) do not require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. These manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car with keys-less entry systems, it's important to have a spare remote or key. This will allow you to have one in the case that your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on protection, then this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. Most of the time, these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer specially designed for this purpose. If saab replacement key require to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge as much as locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and a large number of them are still in use in the present. However, there's one big problem with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is small and not a great design and it's known to break or become stuck easily. Many people have a non-functioning key within a couple of years of owning the vehicle.
Fortunately, it is possible to get an additional key for your SAAB and this is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is a straightforward process that you can perform yourself and it doesn't require any tools at all. Be cautious when you overdo it you could harm its electronic components.
You will then need to locate a place that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily, however if you know where to look you should have no trouble finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you will need to have it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
It's not cheap to purchase a new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It's less expensive than replacing the entire vehicle, and it can save you a lot of time. If you only have one key working, it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which can lead to a lot of frustration and cost.
