Does Technology Make Saab Ignition Key Replacement Better Or Worse?
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 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 at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a type of key that is equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is put into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are in sync the car will then unlock and start. This is a great method to stop car theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a common feature in cars, but you must be aware that they're not as secure as classic keys made of metal. The metal component of a traditional keys can be easily cut or copied, while a transponder has an electronic chip which protects it. The chip has a unique code which 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. saab 900 key will only recognize the key fob if it is equipped with an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. The car won't start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is important to have an extra Saab key. This is especially important especially if you reside in a rural location where there are many car thieves. The good part is that you can obtain a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealer and pay the hefty prices they ask. You can have an original key made on the spot for less than half the cost you would pay at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only own one, it is recommended to get an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car needs a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially for cars that are used.
The next step is connecting the wires for columns and rows to your microcontroller. This is the toughest aspect of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you need to consider how you will route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the columns and rows are joined, it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will shield the pins of the key switch from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode permits current to only flow in one direction. It comes with a visual indicator of a black line that indicates the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools offered at auto parts storeslike the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can help customers in the shop, or even DIY customers in certain cases programme replacement keys and recover lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and guide the user through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jumpstarting the battery
Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks in case of emergency however, jumping a battery for newer automobiles might not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when batteries are connected to another can fry the components and render your vehicle unusable.
Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for around two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface under the disabled car's hood--the engine block is an ideal choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery as it could ignite an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
After the cables have been connected, you can begin the car and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. Be aware that the battery in your Saab 9-3 is charged when you drive, and it could take a while for the battery to come down. You should invest in a second key fob, as soon as 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 car and if they lose that the cost will be. The reason for this is that it's not cheap to replace a key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. In the event of theft, or any other catastrophe it is best to have a spare key. However, don't purchase a secondhand key even the case that it's "new." Keys that are claimed as new purchased from third-party sellers won't work and are likely to fail at the critical moment.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollars if you only have one working key. However, we can reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to accept the new key, without replacing the entire system. This could save you a lot of money. It's also less expensive than waiting until you lose your sole key.