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 last one. If you only have one key, it's 2X-10X as expensive to make an entirely new one.
Change the battery on your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle however, the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons could fall out. This can be a inconvenience when driving. It's crucial to replace your key fob right away whenever you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is far better than putting off the replacement.
Replacing the SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob, which is compatible with your vehicle as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys that have the remote start feature require special attention due to transponder chips that needs to be programmed to your particular vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool can scan the code of your existing keys and then use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complicated and could cost you up to $500 from the dealer.
A good suggestion is to look for locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can make you the key at a lower cost than a dealer. They can also provide 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.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizers that use a chip integrated into the key to identify and start your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they contain a chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value in them) do not require programming and are affordable to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is due to the fact that these manufacturers do not permit dealers to join NASTF, which is the organization that creates the tools other automotive locksmiths use to make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is vital to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This way, you will have one in the event that your key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons this can help reduce the cost of a remote replacement.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. Typically, these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is made for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your car, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will not charge as much as a locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and a large number of remain in use in the present. The ignition key is the main problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. Many people have a non-functioning key after just a few years of owning the vehicle.
It's easy to obtain an additional key for your SAAB. First, you need to remove the emergency key. replacement saab 9-3 key is a straightforward process that you can perform yourself, and it does not require any tools at all. You should be careful, though, because if you force it too hard, you could harm the electronics inside it.
Then, you will have to find a store that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They can be difficult to find, but if you know where to look, you will be able to locate one quickly. Once you've found a new key case, you will need to cut it and programmed to your vehicle.
It's costly to get a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It's cheaper than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount of time. If you're left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it and this could lead to many frustrations and expense.