How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the previous one can save you big cost. When you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X the cost to make an original one.
The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, inexpensive and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car, but its ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case may become sticky and buttons can fall out. This could be a discomfort while driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This can save you a lot of money over the long term as well as being more effective than putting off the task.
Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You will need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob, which is compatible with your car and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular attention, as they contain transponders that need to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool can read the code on the keys you have and then use this information to program your replacement key. If you don't have a spare key available, this process is a bit more complex and can cost up to $500 from the dealer.
It is best to locate locksmiths who work with Saabs. These professionals will be able to design and make keys at lower cost than the dealer. They also provide other services like key replacement and duplication to ensure you have an extra key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip that is built into the key to begin and recognize your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they are equipped with chip. However, there are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor inside) do not require programming and are cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because the manufacturers do not permit dealers to participate in NASTF, which is the group that makes the tools that other locksmiths in the automotive sector utilize to create replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is crucial 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 original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it will lower the cost of a remote replacement.
Most car keys for cars manufactured after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. Most of the time, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer made for this purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your vehicle you will have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealership will not charge you as much as locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and many of them are still in use in the present. However, there's a huge issue with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or become stuck. In fact, many people have a non-functioning key within a couple of years of owning the car.
It's not difficult to find a spare key to use with your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple task that is done by yourself and you don't require any tools. You will need to be careful, however in case you force the process too hard, you could damage the electronics within it.
The next step is to find a shop that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. It is possible that you won't be able to locate these cases easily, but if you know where to look, you should have no trouble finding one. Once you have found a replacement case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
The process of getting an additional key for your SAAB could be quite costly however it's worth it in the end. It's cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount of time. If you're left with one working key then it's best to get it replaced in the earliest time possible. saab replacement keys don't know when you're likely to lose it, which could result in lots of frustration and cost.