How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a lot of money by having a spare key manufactured before you lose your previous one. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key when you're only left with one.
It's easy, cheap and simple to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car, but its ignition key can be prone to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out. This can cause pain while driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This will save you money in the end and is more effective than waiting.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell that will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. It is necessary to open the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the chance to replace the battery. Once you've done this it's easy to put the new battery and then reconnect the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start system require particular attention since they feature transponder chips which needs to 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. This tool will be able to read the code of the keys you have and then use that information to program your new key. This process is more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if your don't have an extra.
It is recommended to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. These experts will be able to make you an entirely new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They can also perform other services, including key replacement and duplicates, to ensure that you have a backup key in case yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a chip built into the key to identify and start your vehicle. This is the reason these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have a chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor value inside) don't require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because these brands do not permit dealers to be part of NASTF, which is the group which makes the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector use to create keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This will allow you to have one in the case that your original key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote can be very costly. If you have an insurance policy with key add-on coverage then this could help lower the cost.
Most car keys for cars made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. They are typically locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is made for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get an additional key for your vehicle you must visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not charge you the same amount as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car, and there are plenty of them still in operation around the world today. The ignition key is probably the biggest issue with these cars. The key is small and not a great design and it's known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many people find themselves without a working key after only a few years of owning their car.
It's easy to get an additional key for your SAAB. First, take out the emergency key. It's an easy task is done by yourself and you don't need any tools. You must be careful, though as if you press the process too hard, you might damage the electronics within it.
In the meantime, you'll have to locate a shop that offers an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to locate these cases easily, but if you know where look you should have no difficulty finding one. Once you've 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 cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle. saab 900 key will save you a lot of time. If you have only one key working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which could cause an abundance of frustration and cost.