How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose the last one could save you a lot of cost. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a new key when you're down to one.
It's simple, inexpensive and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle however, the ignition key tends to wear out. The case could become sticky and the buttons can be pushed out, which could be a major hassle when you're driving. It's essential to replace your key fob immediately in the event of any issues. This will save you money over the long term, and is much better than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need an appropriate shell replacement 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 then synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with remote start system need special attention due to a transponder chip in them that must be programmed to the particular vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. The tool can read the code of your keys that are already in use and use this information to program your replacement key. This procedure can be more complicated and cost up to $500 if you don't have an extra.
A good idea is to locate locksmiths who work on Saabs. These professionals can make you the key at a lower price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key replacement and duplication, to ensure that you have a backup key in case yours gets damaged or lost.
Most European cars built after 2000 have immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip embedded into the key to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate since they contain a chip. However, there are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but have a small resistor value inside) do not require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car that features keys-less entry systems, it could be necessary to have an extra key or remote. This will allow you to have one in the event that the 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 protection, then this can help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically made for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge less than the locksmith.
saab 93 key replacement -3 is a beautiful automobile and there are a number of them still in operation all over the world. The ignition key is the most significant problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or get stuck. In reality, many are left without a functioning key after only a few years of owning the car.
It's easy to get 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 you can perform yourself, and you don't need any tools. Be cautious however, because if you force it too hard you could damage its electronics.
You will then need to find a location where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find however when you know where to look, you are likely to find one quite easily. When you locate a replacement case you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your vehicle.
The process of obtaining an entirely new key for your SAAB can be very expensive, but it is definitely worth it in the long run. It's cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you're only left with one working key then it's ideal to replace it immediately. You never know when you're going lose it and this could result in lots of frustration and expense.