How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you huge cash. It's typically 2X-10X cheaper to originate a new key if you're down to just one.
It's easy, cheap and easy to change 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 car, but the ignition key can be prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which could be a major hassle while driving. This is why it's a good idea to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This can save you lots of money in the long run as well as being more effective than putting off repairs.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll have to purchase an additional key fob shell that will work with your car and also an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've done this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special attention, as they contain a transponder that must be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need an instrument designed for dealers called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. This tool will be able to scan the code on your existing keys and use this information to program your replacement key. This procedure can be more complex and can cost up to $500 if your don't have an extra.
A good idea is to find locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can create keys at a lower price than the dealer. They also offer other services, like key duplication and replacement so you'll keep a backup car key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated into the key in order to start and recognize your car. This is why these types of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have chips. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical, with an internal resistor) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This way, you will have one in the event that your key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be very costly. If you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on coverage, this can help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get a new key for your vehicle, you will need to go to 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 many of them that are still in use around the world today. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem for these cars. The key is small and is not the most attractive design and it's known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. In reality, many find themselves without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning a car.
It's easy to get an extra key for your SAAB. First, you must remove the emergency key. This is a straightforward process that you can perform yourself and does not require any tools at all. You will need to be careful, however as if you press it too much, you might damage the electronics within it.
You will then be required to find a retailer that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They can be difficult to come by, but if you know where to look then you should be able find one easily. Once g28carkeys.co.uk found a replacement key case, you'll need to cut it and programmed to your car.
The process of obtaining the new key for your SAAB could be quite costly however, it's worth it in the long run. It's much less expensive and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key working it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, which can cause a lot frustration and expense.