How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose the last one can save you big money. It's usually 2X-10X more costly to create a new key when you're down to just one.
Change the battery on the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple 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 can be susceptible to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out. This could be a inconvenience while driving. It's crucial to replace your key fob right away whenever you notice any problems. This can help you save money in the end and is more beneficial than putting off repairs.
You can change the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that is compatible with your car, as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular attention since they come with an electronic transponder that needs to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. The tool can read the code on your existing keys and then use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this process is a bit more complicated and could cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is best to locate an locksmith who works with Saabs. They can provide you with the key at a lower cost than the dealer. They also offer other services such as key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a backup key for your car in the event that it gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars made after 2000 have immobilizers that depend on a chip that is built into the key that can recognize and start your vehicle. This is why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have the chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor inside) don't require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This way you can have one in the event that your key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it could lower the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM which can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your vehicle, you must visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will cost you less than the locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car and there are many of them still in operation all over the world. The ignition key is the main issue in these cars. The key is tiny and has a poor design, and it's known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many people find themselves without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning the vehicle.
It's simple to find an extra key for your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is an easy process which you can complete yourself, and it does not require any tools at all. You will need to be cautious, however in case you force it too hard then you might cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You'll need to find a shop where you can purchase an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. saab car key replacement is possible that you won't be able to find these cases easily, but if know where to search, you should have no trouble finding one. Once you've found the replacement key case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to your car.
It can be expensive to buy a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it could save you lots of time. If you only have one key that is working, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when you're likely to lose it, which could lead to lots of frustration and cost.