5 Things Everyone Gets Wrong In Regards To Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 have an immobilizer system made up of coded keys. Adding an extra key requires the purchase of a new transponder as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that it can be very expensive. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a piece of key with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is identical to the one on the key. If the signals are the same the car will then unlock itself and start. This is a great way to stop auto theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a popular addition to cars, but they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. how to get a saab replacement key of the traditional keys can be easily copied and cut, but transponders are protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. This chip contains an unique code that is programmed into a car's computers in order to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. Otherwise, the car will reject the key and won't start.
It's crucial to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially important if you live in a rural location where there are a lot of car thieves. The good news is that it's possible to find a new key for your Saab without having to go to a dealer and pay the expensive prices they ask. You can have a replacement key created on the spot for less than half of what you would pay at dealerships.
Key for Wired

Saab cars typically come with two keys upon purchase. If you have only one, you need to purchase an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if it's lost and the car is damaged, it will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially if you're buying a used car.
The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a great amount of soldering. It's not a common way 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, so there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.
After the rows and column are joined, it is time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each key switch pin and then solder it. This will shield the pins from current, and prevent them from getting shorted. A diode allows the current to flow in a single direction, and it also has a an indicator in black that indicates the direction current will flow.
Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- may help shop customers or even DIY users in some cases replace keys in the program and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the user through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jump starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunk in case of emergency however, jumping a battery for newer vehicles may not be the best choice. These vehicles are equipped with a number of digital and electronic devices that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when a battery is connected to another one could cause damage to the parts, rendering your car undriveable.
Start the vehicle that is working and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface under the hood of your disabled car. The engine block is a great choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery because it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
After the cables have been connected, start the car and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, and it can take a while for the battery to come down. It is recommended to purchase 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 only have one key for their vehicle and if they lose it, key, it will cost them. It's expensive to purchase a key and requires replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. In the event of theft or any other catastrophe it is advisable to have an extra key. Even even if the key is "new", it will not work.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help with a single working key, and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. However, we can reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. That can save you lots of money. It's cheaper to do this rather than wait until you lose your only key.