How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the previous one can save you significant cash. If you only have one key, it's generally 2X-10X more expensive to create an entirely new one.
Change the battery on your SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple and inexpensive to do yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great car however, the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case could become sticky and the buttons are known to fall out, and this could be a major hassle when you're driving. It's essential to replace your key fob right away if you notice any issues. This could save you a significant amount of money over the long term and is more beneficial than putting off repairs.
You can replace a SAAB's keys fob by yourself for less than $100. You will need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that will work with your car as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special attention because they include transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade device called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for the model you have of Saab. The tool can read the code from your existing keys and then use that information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more complex and can cost up to $500 from the dealer.
An excellent tip is to find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They will be able to create a new key at an affordable cost compared to the dealer. g28carkeys.co.uk can also provide other services, including key replacement and duplication, so that you can have an extra key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 feature immobilizer systems that rely on a chip built inside the key to detect and start your car. This is why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have the chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated relatively cheaply. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. This is because these brands do not permit their dealers to participate in NASTF which is the organization that creates the tools other locksmiths for automobiles make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it is important to have a spare remote or key. You can use it in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories, it can reduce the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The majority of these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically specially designed for this purpose. This means that if you need a new key for your vehicle, you will have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will not cost as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a gorgeous car, and there are plenty of them still in operation across the globe today. The ignition key is the main problem for these cars. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design and is known to fall out or get stuck easily. In reality, many are left without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning the car.
It's easy to obtain 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 that you can carry out yourself and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. Be careful though, as if you press it too hard you could damage the electronic components.
Then, you will need to locate a place that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They can be difficult to come by, but when you know where to look, you will be able to locate one fairly easily. Once you've found the replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmable to your car.
It can be expensive to get a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle, and it could save you lots of time. If you have only one key working you should replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, and that can result in a lot of frustration and cost.