7 Things About Saab Ignition Key Replacement You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 have an immobilizer system made up of coded keys. A new transponder is required for the addition of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why you should always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder keys are keys equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal to car when it is placed in the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to see whether it is identical to the one in the key. If the signals match then the car will be able to unlock and begin. This is a great method to prevent car theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are an increasingly popular feature in automobiles, but you must be aware that they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal parts of a traditional key could be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has an individual code that is programmed into the car's computers to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car will only recognize the key fob if it has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. The car won't start in the event that the key is not programmed to match.
It is essential to have an extra Saab key. This is especially true when you live in a rural area where there are a lot of car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by going to the dealership without paying their pricey costs. You can get the replacement key on the spot for less than half what you would spend at the dealership.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you only have one, it's best to acquire an additional key fob as soon as you can as if you lose it the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders have to be replaced. This can be costly especially if buying a second-hand car.
The next step is to connect the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a great amount of soldering. There's no standard way to go about it, but you should consider how you will route and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to key switches. To do this, put an inverter over each pin of the key switch and then solder it. This will shield the key switch pins from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It has a visual indicator with a black band that shows which way current will flow.
Sanabria states that a number of the tools available in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 can assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data. The tools connect to OBD ports and help the customer through each step, making the process easier than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jumpstarting the battery
A lot of people keep a set in their trunks to jump-start a vehicle in the event of an emergency, but it may not be the best idea for cars with more modern technology. These vehicles are equipped with many digital and computers that communicate with one another. A voltage surge while the battery is connected to another can fry these components and render your car unable to drive.
Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the damaged car's hood. The engine block would be an excellent choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery as it could spark an ignition that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected the vehicle that has been disabled and let it run for about five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. Be aware that the battery of the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, so it will take a while for the battery to go down. You should consider purchasing a second key fob, when you can. Replacing thekeylab.co.uk that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's not inexpensive to add a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. It is recommended to have a spare key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to purchase an additional key as quickly as you can. Even it's "new" it will not work.
Most locksmiths cannot help you when you only have one working key and the dealer will charge for the cost of replacing the computer in your vehicle for a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order to be able 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 sole key.