How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

Copying your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you big money. It's usually 2X-10X more costly to create a brand new key if you're down to one.

The process of replacing the battery in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy and inexpensive to do yourself. Here's how.

Cost of Replacement Key

The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car, but its ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case could become slick and the buttons can be pushed out. This could be a discomfort while driving. It is essential to replace your key fob as soon as possible if you notice any issues. This can save you a lot of money over the long term as well as being more effective than procrastinating.

Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that's compatible with your car, as well as a new battery. It is necessary to open the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components to give you an opportunity to replace the battery. After removing the electronics, you can replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your car.

SAAB keys with remote start system need special attention because they have a transponder chip in them that needs to be programmed to your particular vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your saab ignition key model to accomplish this. The tool can read the code of your existing keys and then use this information to program your replacement key. This process is more complex and can cost up to $500 if you do not already have a spare.

A good idea is to try and find locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They will be able to create the new key for an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll be able to have a spare car key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.

The majority of European cars made after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip embedded into the key to begin and recognize your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they have an embedded chip. However, there are some exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value within) don't require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches manufactured after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplicates. These manufacturers don't permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to create replacement keys.

Cost of a New Remote

If you own a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it could be necessary to have a spare key or remote. This will allow you to have one in the event that your key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it will reduce the cost of replacing the remote.

The majority of car keys made after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get an additional key for your vehicle you will have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer isn't going to cost the same amount as locksmiths.

Saab 9-3s are stunning cars and a large number of them are still in use today. The ignition key is the biggest problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or become stuck. In reality, a lot of 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 93 replacement key. First, remove the emergency key. It's a simple procedure that you can do yourself, and it does not require any tools whatsoever. You should be cautious, however in case you force it too hard, you might damage the electronics within it.

You will then need to locate a store where you can purchase an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by however once you know where to look, you will be able to locate one quickly. Once you've found a new key case, you will require it to be cut and programmed to your car.

The process of obtaining an additional key for your SAAB can be expensive but it's worth it in the end. It's less expensive than replacing your entire vehicle, and it will save you a lot of time. If you only have one key that is working it is recommended to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're going to lose it, which could result in an abundance of frustration and expense.