10 Reasons Why People Hate Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer system based on coded keys. A new transponder is required for the addition of a second key, and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this could be quite costly. You should always keep an extra set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then examines the signal to see if it matches the one on the key. If the signals match then the car will be able to unlock and start. saab 93 key fob is an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, but it is important to know that they aren't as secure as classic metal keys. The metal component of a traditional key can be easily copied and cut, but transponders are protected by an electronic chip that guards it. The chip is a unique code which is programmed into the car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and allow it to turn on. The car will only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. The car won't start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It's essential to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly true if you reside in a rural area that is home to numerous car thieves. The good thing is that you can obtain a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to a dealer and pay the hefty prices that they ask. In most cases, you can have a brand new key made right on the spot for less than half the price of what you would pay at dealerships.
Key for Wired
Saab cars typically come with two keys when they're new. If you have only one, it is recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as possible as if you lose it, your car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This can be expensive, especially for used cars.
The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and requires a significant amount of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, however, you should determine how to connect and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.
After the rows and column are soldered together It is now time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the pins that are used for key switches from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode only allows the flow of current to be in one direction, and it comes with a the black band as a visual indicator that shows the direction in which current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508 will assist customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunks for emergencies, but jumping a battery in newer vehicles may not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with many electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A voltage surge while the battery is connected to another could cause damage to these components and leave your vehicle unable to drive.
Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for around two minutes before you connect the cables to the battery that is not working. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean and unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of the affected car. The engine block is a good option. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in a spark, which would ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, start the disabled vehicle and let it run for about five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. Be aware that the battery in the Saab 9-3 gets recharged during your drive, which means it will take a while for the battery to go back to normal. You should consider purchasing another key fob when you can. Replacing the one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, it's going to cost them. The reason is that it's costly to add a new key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. It is recommended to have a backup key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the best option is to purchase an extra key as soon as you can. Even it's "new" it will not work.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar for only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM for it to accept a replacement key without the need to replace the entire system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose your only key.