How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by having your spare key manufactured before you lose your last one. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to make a new key if you're down to one.
Switching the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, cheap and simple to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle, but the ignition key tends to wear out. The case could become slick and buttons can fall out. This can cause issue when driving. It is essential to replace your key fob right away when you notice any issues. saab 9-3 key not accepted contact service will save you money in the end, and is more effective than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your car.
SAAB keys that come with a remote start feature require special attention due to an embedded transponder chip that needs to be programmed to the particular vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll need an instrument designed for dealers called the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. This tool is able to analyze the codes from your existing keys and use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this process is a bit more involved and can cost up to $500 from the dealer.
A good suggestion is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They'll be able to make you a new key at lower cost than the dealer. They can also do other services, such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll have a backup key for your car in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
Most European cars built after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built inside the key to begin and recognize your car. This is why these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys without chips. There are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor value in them) do not require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches built after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplicates. This is because these manufacturers do not allow dealers to participate in NASTF which is the organization which makes the tools other automotive locksmiths use to make keys that can be used to replace their customers' keys.
Cost of a New Remote
If you have a Saab car that features a keyless entry system then it's important to have a spare remote or key. You can use it in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that provides key add-on coverage then this could help lower the cost.
Most car keys for cars made after 2000 are programmed by the 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. If you require an alternative key for your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not charge the same amount as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a beautiful car, and there are plenty of them in use all over the world. However, there is a big problem with these cars and it's their ignition key. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design and can lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key in just a few years of buying their car.
It's easy to get an extra key for your SAAB. First, you need to remove the emergency key. It's a simple job you can do yourself, and you don't require any tools. Be careful however, because if force it too hard you could damage the electronic components.
The next step is to find a shop where you can get 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 look you should have no problem finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmed to your car.
It's not cheap to get a new SAAB key, but the cost is worth it. It is much cheaper and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you're only left with one working key then it's recommended to replace it as soon as possible. You never know when it will be lost, and that can result in a lot of frustration and expense.