10 Unexpected Saab 9-3 Key Replacement Tips
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of unique steps to add a second ignition key. It requires dealer assistance using the handheld computer known as Tech-2. Then, a new transponder and key need to be purchased.
Make sure to rotate your keys in order to prevent one from deteriorating faster than another. This will help to keep your keys in perfect condition.
Replacement Case
Contrary to the classic Saab keys of old keys, the modern key fobs are equipped with electronics which makes it hard to duplicate. This has made stealing cars considerably more difficult than it was years ago. However, it has also made replacing lost keys a more costly endeavor.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys working. If saab 9-5 key replacement of them is lost, it costs a lot of money to add another to the car since it requires replacing the CIM module and re-programming the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100-$200 to do this.
There are some ways around these expensive. Some parts providers can look up the code from a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and switches the ignition) and cut a brand new metal key blade for a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must be exactly the same as the original for it to work in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need a flathead screwdriver and some patience. With the screwdriver, break off the plastic and then remove the emergency key. Once you have the case open, take the electronics out and put them back into the new case. Be sure to put the correct key and badge back inside the case, too.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is an inexpensive part that can be replaced easily and quickly. Cyclone's YouTube video Cyd demonstrates how you can replace the battery of the remote fob with just four easy steps. This guide should work with any modern saab key fob however, the procedure may differ slightly.
The first step is to find the button that lets off the backup key on the fob. The button is usually found on the back of the fob close to the Saab Logo. Then use a flathead screwdriver to insert into the small hole in this button. This should be enough to open the case so that you can change the battery.
After you have installed the new battery CR1632, you are able to reassemble your remote key fob. You can then program it into your car. The entire process should not take more than a half hour at the most. It is a simple process that does not require any special equipment.
The process is a bit more complicated if you lose your key, but it's possible. The dealer needs to first determine the VIN of the vehicle and order the replacement TWICE module as well as key blade that is matched to the unique code. After that, they will have to cut the replacement key and then program it with a new software tool called MDI.
Key Replacement Fob
The key fob comes with batteries that are used to lock and unlock your car. The batteries last for a certain time, and they will eventually fail. This is a problem that occurs that affects all cars. The good news is you can replace the battery on most key fobs, without having to replace the entire case. Amazon sells replacement fobs with all the electronics installed. It is easy to open the case and replace the batteries. It's important to note that you will need to take out the emergency key first. you can do this by inserting the small screwdriver flathead into the slot found in the middle of the case. The case will split once you work the screwdriver all around it.
When you're ready to replace the keys, make sure you have a spare as this will reduce your total cost by a substantial 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 entire key fob.
It is possible to add another key to your car if you don't already have one, but it requires a great deal of research and work. Adding a second key costs a few hundred dollars, and it also requires the programming of the car's computer. This can be accomplished by a professional, but it's an expensive option for most owners.
Replacement Ignition
The current SAAB 9-3 features an alarm system that is more sophisticated built on a keycode. This means that should you lose only one working key, acquiring an additional one could be extremely expensive since the car has to have a special computer module fitted and must also be specifically designed to accept a different key. Most locksmiths cannot do this, and even dealers can charge several hundreds of dollars just to program the new key!
Dealers will charge you a high price to replace your car's computer (also called the CIM or SAAB twice) when you lose the only working key. We can reprogramme the existing EEPROM on your car's computer so that it's ready for an extra key. This will save you more than 50% of the price you'd have to pay a dealer.
If you've been an owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you probably know that the ignition key isn't all that robust. If the ignition key you have isn't functioning properly, you must think about replacing it. They can become sticky and the buttons have been known to fall off. Fortunately, replacing the ignition key isn't as difficult as it seems and can be done fairly quickly with the right tools.