How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key prior to losing the previous one can save you huge cash. If you have only one key, it's typically 2X-10X as expensive to make an original one.
Changing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy affordable and easy to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle but the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case can become sticky and the buttons could fall out. This can cause discomfort when driving. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This can help you save money in the long run as well as being 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 an additional shell for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle and an entirely new battery. You'll need to remove the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronic components, giving you an opportunity to replace the battery. Once you've done this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then resynchronize the key fob with your car.
SAAB keys that have the remote start feature require special attention due to an embedded transponder chip that needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can read the code from your existing keys and then use that information to program your new key. This process can be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.
It is a good idea to find an expert locksmith who is associated with Saabs. They'll be able of making you the new key for an affordable cost compared to the dealer. They can also provide other services like key replacement and duplicates, to ensure you have an extra key in the event that yours is lost or damaged.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that utilize a chip embedded inside the key to detect and start your car. This is the reason these kinds of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have the chip. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor inside) don't require programming and are relatively cheap to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. saab key replacement near me develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is important to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This way, you will have one in the case that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could reduce the cost of replacing the remote.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. Most of the time, these keys are locked in a small EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically designed for that purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your vehicle you will need to go to the dealer. The good news is the dealer will cost you less than locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car and there are many of them still in operation all over the world. However, there is a big problem with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or become stuck. Many have been without a functioning key within just a few years of buying their vehicle.
It's simple to find 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 at all. You should be cautious though, as if you force it too hard you could harm its electronics.
Then, you will have to find a store that sells an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily however if you know where to search, you should have no problem finding one. When you locate an appropriate case replacement you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your car.
The process of obtaining an entirely new key for your SAAB isn't cheap, but it is definitely worth it in the long run. It's much less expensive and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key that is working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, which can cause a lot of frustration and expense.