How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose your last one could save you a lot of cash. If you only have one key, it's 2X-10X more expensive to create an entirely new one.
It's easy, cheap and simple to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however the ignition key tends to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons may fall out. This can cause issue while driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is better than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle as well as a new battery. You'll need to open up the case of your old SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components to give you the opportunity to change the battery. After this is done, you can easily fit the new battery and then restart the key fob's synchronization to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special attention, as they contain transponders that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. This tool will be able to read the code of your existing keys and then use that information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if your don't have a spare.
It is recommended to find locksmiths who work with Saabs. They can make you keys at a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, like key replacement and duplicates, to ensure you have an extra key in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars built after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built inside the key to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they have a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical, with a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated relatively inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because these manufacturers don't allow their dealers to join NASTF, which is the group that makes the tools that other locksmiths in the automotive sector make replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This will give you one in the event that your original key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it will lower the cost of a replacement remote.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. If you require to replace the key in your car, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will charge less than a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a gorgeous car and there are many of them that are still in use all over the world. However, there is a major issue with these vehicles and that is their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or get stuck. In reality, a lot of people are left without a functioning key after just a few years of owning a car.
It's not difficult to find a spare key for your SAAB. First, take out the emergency key. It's a simple process that you can perform yourself, and you don't require any tools. You must be careful, however, because if you force the process too hard, you might damage the electronics within it.
Then, you will have to find a store that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases readily, however if you know where to search, you should have no trouble finding one. If you find an appropriate case replacement it is necessary to have it cut and programmed to fit your car.
The process of getting an additional key for your SAAB isn't cheap however it's worth it in the end. It's cheaper and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. So if saab 9-3 key replacement 're down to one working key then it's best to get it replaced in the earliest time possible. You never know when you're going to lose it, and this could lead to an abundance of frustration and expense.