How to Replace a Saab 9-3 Key
The Saab 9-3 is a great car that has a lot of driver appeal. It has excellent visibility and a strong performance engine. It has a high safety rating.
It is crucial to have two keys that are compatible for your vehicle. If you lose only one key, it could be very expensive to add the new one.
How to Replace the Ignition Key in a Saab9-3
If your car's keys won't engage in the ignition and you want to replace it, you'll need to replace it. This guide will guide you through the steps to do it on a Saab 9-3. You will have to replace the key, get an updated reprogrammable phone, and purchase a new case for your key-fob.
In contrast to older models, the majority of modern Saab vehicles use a transponder in the key-fob instead physical key that can be used to unlock and start the vehicle. The problem with this is that the reprogrammable battery on the key-fob will eventually wear out and won't hold a charge any longer. This is particularly true if you use the same key for the lock you have.
The good thing is that the battery can be replaced quite easily by a professional locksmith. If you have the proper tools and patience you can do it yourself. The first step is to take the key-fob out. This is accomplished by inserting a flathead screwdriver into the slot in the middle of the case. The plastic is very thin and is easily damaged.
Once the case has been opened, you can create the new key by combining the lower portion of the old key along with banana and transponder. This will ensure that the new key is mated to the CIM properly, which can make a huge difference when replacing the primary key for your Saab 9-3.
How to Replace the Ignition Key on a Saab 900
If you don't have two keys, you'll need to take off the dashboard and steering wheel in order to access the ignition. Begin by disconnecting the negative battery cable. After the battery has been disconnected, it is possible to remove all trim pieces and dashboard pieces that surround the steering wheel. After the dashboard is removed, you can push a screwdriver into the hole on the back of the ignition switch and take it out.
The ignition cylinder is equipped with a key lock which could stop the vehicle from starting if it does not contain the key. If your 900's ignition switch isn't functioning, check the key to see whether it's in the lock or is stuck in the barrel of ignition. It's also a good idea to rotate your keys on a regular basis and clean them regularly so that one doesn't become bent.
Saab cars differ from other cars due to the fact that they do not use traditional metal keys. Instead, the car is able to recognize electric signals generated by the key fob via an specialized microchip inside.
If you have lost your only working key fob, the dealer will charge the highest dollar for replacing your computer module (known as the CIM). thekeylab.co.uk can reprogram the EEPROM on your current computer to allow it to accept new keys, without having to replace it. This can save you over 50% of the cost the dealer charges! This is the SAAB Key PROGRAM. Find out more about it here!
How to replace the ignition Key on a Saab 9-5
The metal component of classic Saab keys is simple to duplicate and does not represent a significant risk to vehicle theft. The real protection comes from the electronic part in the key-fob, which has a chip inside which recognizes your car once it's put into the ignition switch.
Saab's anti-theft system has relied on this technology for more than 10 years. It's not as good as a physical lock on the door but it makes the theft of your car much more difficult. Every Saab owner must keep an extra Saab key in their vehicle.
The majority of new Saabs come with two keys, but they can be added by a dealer using a special handheld device referred to as a Tech-2. The cost can be under $400 for the transmitter+transponder (different than the metal key blade/shell that opens the doors and turns the ignition cylinder). The only exception to this is the NG 9-3 vehicles that have more modern, more advanced features that require the use of a key-fob.
If you lose all keys or keys, the dealer will replace your CIM or TWICE modules and charge you an additional fee for it. We can however reprogram the EEPROM on your computer to accept new keys, without having to replace the expensive modules.
How to replace the ignition Key on an XC90 Saab
If your SAAB 9-3 key fob is having problems turning the barrel of the lock it's possible that it's time to replace it. The process is quite simple and doesn't require you to visit a dealer. You can do it at home using a few basic tools.
First, you'll need to prepare the new key. Before you start, be sure that the anti-theft system has been disabled by placing blocks on the rear wheels, and then adjusting the handbrake. Then, you can insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the on position, which activates the accessories but does not start the engine. Repeat this five times, then keep the key in the on position.
You'll need to purchase an additional case for your key fob. You can find them at any auto parts store and they're typically very affordable. Based on the model, you could even get them without any electronics.
To open the case to open the case, gently push the screwdriver with a flathead into the slot in the middle. After you have split the case, you will be able to access all the internal electronic components. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pull out the electronics.