10 Healthy Saab 9-3 Key Replacement Habits
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners must follow a set of specific steps to add an additional ignition key. It requires dealer assistance using an electronic handheld computer called Tech-2. Then, a new transponder and key have to be purchased.
It is recommended to rotate your keys in order that one doesn't get damaged faster than the other. This will help to keep your keys in top condition.
Replacement Case
Unlike the classic Saab keys of the past keys, the latest keys have electronic components which makes it more difficult to create a duplicate. This has made theft of cars considerably more difficult than it was a few years ago. However, it has also made the replacement of lost keys a more expensive undertaking.
Every owner of a Saab 9-3 must have at least two functioning keys. If one is lost, it costs a lot of money to replace it in the car, as it requires replacing the CIM module and re-programming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 to do this.
There are a few ways to avoid the high price. Some parts providers will use the code of an old key to cut a brand new metal blade at a fraction that of a dealer. The key must be exactly the identical to the original one for it to function in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You will need to have a flathead and a lot of patience. Utilizing the screwdriver, slowly tear the plastic away and remove the emergency key from the case. When the case is opened remove all electronics and place them in the new case. Make sure you insert the correct key and badge back into the case as well.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a cheap part that can be replaced easily and quickly. This YouTube DIY video Cyclone Cyd will show you how to replace the remote key fob battery in just four steps. This tutorial will work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process could differ slightly.
This button is usually located close to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. This button is usually on the back of the fob, right next to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver through the small hole in this button. This will allow you to open the case of the fob to allow you to replace the battery.
Once you have installed the CR1632 batteries, you can reassemble your remote key fob. You can then program it into your car. The whole process should not be more than an hour. This is a simple procedure that doesn't require special tools.
The process can be a bit more complicated in the event that you lose your key, but it's possible. The dealer will need to read the car's VIN and then order a replacement key blade and TWICE module, both with the exact unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI, a brand new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is the part that locks and unlocks your car. It has batteries inside. The batteries are able to last for that is a long time, and they eventually expire. It's a common issue that affects all cars. The good news is that you can replace the battery in most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can buy fobs replacements on Amazon that include all the electronics already installed, so you can just pop open the case and replace the batteries that were in the case. It is necessary to remove the emergency key before you replace the batteries. To do this, insert a small screwdriver that is flat into the slot that is in the middle of the. Use the screwdriver to move around the case, and it will split open, making it easier to take it out.
If you are about to replace the keys ensure that you have a spare since this will cut down the total cost by a significant amount. If you have a spare you can request that the dealer cut a new key and program it into your car, which is cheaper than replacing the whole key fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add an additional key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. It can cost a few hundred bucks to add a second car key. The computer of the car also needs to be programmed. Professionals can do this but it's not a cheap option.
Replacement Ignition

In contrast to earlier Saab cars, the modern SAAB 9-3 models have an advanced alarm system that is built on a key code. If you lose your sole key, it could be expensive to add another one since the car needs to have a specific computer installed and also be programmed to accept a brand new key. The majority of locksmiths aren't able to do this and dealers will charge hundred dollars to program the new key!
If you've lost your only working key, a dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make the replacement, and will charge you the highest price for it. Instead, thekeylab.co.uk can reprogram the EEPROM in your current car computer to prepare it for a new key, saving you over 50% of what you'd spend at a dealer.
If you've been a long-time owner of a 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you likely have noticed that the ignition switch isn't very robust. They can be extremely sticky, and the buttons are known to be ripped off at times, so you should consider getting a replacement if yours isn't working properly. It's good to know that replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it sounds and can be done quickly with the right tools.