How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you big cost. When you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X as expensive to make the new one.
It's cheap, easy and simple to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car but the ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case could become slick and the buttons can fall out. This can cause issue when driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This could help you save cash in the long run, and it's also better than putting off the task.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob by yourself for less than $100. You'll need to buy an additional key fob shell that can be used with your vehicle, and a new battery. You'll need to remove the case of your old SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronics to give the chance to replace the battery. After you have removed the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start system require particular attention since they feature a transponder chip which needs to be programmed to the specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require an instrument designed for dealers called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. saab key code is able to identify the code on your existing keys and then use this information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't have an extra.
It is a good idea to find an expert locksmith who is associated with Saabs. They can provide you with the key at a lower cost than the dealer. They can also do other services, such as key duplication and replacement making it possible to have a backup car key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated inside the key to identify and start your car. This is the reason why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those without chips. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical, with a resistor inside) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly cheaply. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because these brands do not permit dealers to participate in NASTF which is the group that creates the tools other automotive locksmiths make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of a New Remote
If you own a Saab vehicle that has keys-less entry systems, it may be important to have an extra key or remote. This way you can have one in the case that your original key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy with 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 keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you require an alternative key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a good portion of are still in use in the present. However, there's one huge issue with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or become stuck. Many have been lacking a key that worked within a few years after purchasing their vehicle.
Luckily, it's possible to obtain an additional key for your SAAB and this is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that is done by yourself and you don't need any tools. Be cautious when you force it too hard, you could damage its electronic components.
In the meantime, you'll need to locate a place that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. These are not always easy to come by however once you know where to look, you should be able find one fairly easily. If you find an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
It's not cheap to purchase a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It's less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle. It also can save you a significant amount of time. If you're stuck with one working key, it's recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this could cause a lot of frustration and cost.