How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having your spare key manufactured before you lose the one you have. If you have only one key, it's generally 2X-10X the cost to make an original one.
Change the battery on your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy affordable and easy to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case could become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which can be a major inconvenience when you're driving around. This is why it's a good idea to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the long run, and is better than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that is compatible with your vehicle, as well as an entirely new battery. You'll need to open up the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronics to give you the opportunity to replace the battery. Once you've completed this you can simply insert the new battery and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your car.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention, as they contain a transponder that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade device called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool can analyze the codes from your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this process is a bit more complex and can cost up to $500 from the dealer.
It is an excellent idea to find locksmiths who work with Saabs. They can make you keys at a lower cost than a dealer. They can also perform other services, including key replacement and duplicates, to ensure you have another key in case the original one is damaged or lost.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 feature immobilizer systems that utilize a chip embedded into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. This is why these types of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have the chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical with a resistor inside) don't require programming and can be duplicated inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. This is because these brands don't allow their dealers to join NASTF, which is the organization which makes the tools other automotive locksmiths make replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in case your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote could be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage, this will help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you need to replace the key in your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. saab key programmer is that the dealership isn't going to cost as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car and there are many of them in use all over the world. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or get stuck. Many have been without a functioning key within the first few years of purchasing their vehicle.
It's not difficult to find a spare key for your SAAB. First, remove the emergency key. It's a simple job you can perform yourself, and you don't need any tools. You'll need to be careful though, as if you force it too hard you could harm its electronic components.
You'll need to find a shop that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to find these cases readily, however if you know where to look you should have no trouble finding one. Once you've found a replacement key case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
The process of obtaining an entirely new key for your SAAB can be expensive however it's worth it in the long run. It's a lot cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle, and it can save you a lot of time. If you only have one key that is working it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this could cause a lot of frustration and cost.