A How-To Guide For Saab 9-3 Key Replacement From Start To Finish
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners must follow a set of steps that are unique to add a second ignition key. This requires a handheld computer, called Tech-2 that is operated by the dealer. Then the transponder is replaced and a key must be purchased.
Make sure to rotate your keys in order to prevent one from deteriorating faster than another. This will also help to keep your keys in top condition.
Replacement Case
Unlike the classic Saab keys of the past, the new key fobs are equipped with electronics which makes it difficult to make a copy. This has made car theft significantly more difficult than 20 years ago. However, it has also made replacing lost keys a much more costly endeavor.
Saab 9-3 owners should have two working keys. It costs a fortune to replace a lost or damaged key since it requires replacing the CIM module, as well as programming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 for this.
There are ways to avoid these costly costs. Some parts dealers will find the code on a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and switches the ignition) and cut a new metal key blade for only a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must, however, be identical to the original one in order to function in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll require a flathead screwdriver as well as some patience. Utilizing the screwdriver, slowly pry the plastic apart and separate the emergency keys from the case. Once the case is open remove all electronics and put them in your new case. Make sure you insert the correct key and badge inside the case.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a cheap component that can be replaced quickly and easily. This DIY video from YouTube Cyclone Cyd will show you how to replace the battery in the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial should work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the procedure could differ slightly.
The first step is to find the button that lets off the backup key within the fob. This button is usually located on the back of the fob, next to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver through the small hole in this button. This should be sufficient to let the fob case open so that you can replace the battery.
Once the new CR1632 battery is in place, you can reassemble the remote key fob, and then program it to your car. The whole process should not take more than one hour. saab 9-3 key fob programming is a very simple process that does not require any special tools.
The process is more complicated in the event that you lose your key, but it's possible. The dealer has to find the VIN number of the car and then order a replacement key blade and a TWICE module with the correct unique code. The dealer will then need to program the key using MDI, a brand new software tool.
Key Replacement Fob
The key fob is a device that locks and unlocks your car, it has a battery within. The batteries last for a period of that is a long time, and they eventually expire. This is a regular issue that happens to all cars and the good thing is that you can replace the batteries in many fobs, without replacing the entire case. Amazon sells replacement fobs with all the electronic components installed. You can simply remove the case and replace the batteries. You'll need to remove the emergency key before you replace the batteries. To do this, insert an small screwdriver with a flat head into the slot in the middle. The case will split as you move the screwdriver around it.
If you're planning to replace your keys, be sure to have a spare on hand. This will save you a significant amount of money. If you have an additional key, you can request the dealer to cut it and program it for your vehicle. This is less expensive than purchasing a new fob.
If you do not have a spare key one, you can add an additional key to your car, however it requires a lot of research and effort. The cost of adding a second key is a few hundred dollars, and it also requires the programming of the car's computer. Professionals can accomplish this however it's a costly option.
Replacement Ignition
As opposed to the earlier Saab automobiles, the new SAAB 9-3 models feature an upgraded alarm system that is based on a coded key. This means that in the event that you lose your only working key, replacing it with another key can be extremely expensive because the car needs to have a specific computer module fitted and also needs to be specifically programmed to accept a new key. Even a dealer can charge hundreds of dollars to program an additional key when they are not able to do it.
Dealers will charge you the highest price to replace your car computer (also known as the CIM or SAAB twice) if you lose your sole working key. We can reprogram the current EEPROM inside your car's computer to make it ready for an additional key. This will save you more than 50% of the cost you pay an auto dealer.
If you've been a long time owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, you probably are aware that the ignition key isn't very robust. They can become extremely sticky, and the buttons are known to be removed from them from time to time and you should think about buying a new one if the one you have isn't performing as it should. Fortunately, replacing the ignition key isn't as difficult as it sounds, and it can be done fairly quickly with the appropriate tools.