How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money by getting your spare key before you lose your last one. If you have only one key, it's generally 2X-10X as expensive to make the new one.
Switching the battery
in my area your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however, its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case could become slick and the buttons may fall out. This can cause inconvenience while driving. It's important to replace your key fob right away in the event of any issues. This can help you save cash in the long run as well as being more effective than waiting.
You can replace the
saab ignition key's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that will work with your car, as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After this is done you can simply insert the new battery into place and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require particular attention because they have transponder chips that must be programmed for your particular vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. This tool can scan the code on your keys that are already in use and then use this information to program your new key. This process is more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if your don't have an extra.
A good idea is to find locksmiths who work on Saabs. They can create keys at a lower price than the dealer. They can also perform other services like key replacement and duplication to ensure that you have another key in case the original one is damaged or lost.
Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated inside the key to begin and recognize your vehicle. This is why these kinds of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than keys without the chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor inside) do not require programming and are inexpensive to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is crucial to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that the original key gets lost or breaks. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can lower the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires an additional key for your vehicle, you will have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge as much as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is an amazing car and there are many of them in use all over the world. However, there's one huge issue with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is extremely small and not a great design and can lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many people have found themselves lacking a key that worked within several years of purchasing their car.
It's easy to obtain an extra key for your
saab ignition key. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's a simple procedure that you can perform yourself and it does not require any tools at all. You must be cautious, however in case you force it too much, you could damage the electronics within it.
You will then have to find a store that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your
saab key fob programming. These are not always easy to come by however If you know where to look then you are likely to find one quickly. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
The process of obtaining a new key for your SAAB can be expensive but it's worth it in the long run. It is much cheaper and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key that is working you should replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely lose it and this could result in lots of frustration and cost.