Five Saab 9-3 Key Replacement Lessons From The Pros
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a distinct procedure to add the second key. This requires the use of a handheld computer, known as Tech-2 which is used by the dealer. Then it is necessary to purchase a new transponder. key need to be purchased.
Rotate your keys to stop one from wearing out more than the other. This will also help keep your keys in pristine condition.
Replacement Case
Unlike the classic Saab keys of old keys, the latest keys have electronic components that make it difficult to make a copy. This has made car theft significantly more difficult than it was a few years ago. It has also made it more costly to replace keys that were lost.
Every owner of a Saab 9-3 needs to have at a minimum two functioning keys. It is costly to replace a lost or damaged key since it requires replacing the CIM module, as well as programming the locking cylinders. Dealers will typically charge $100-$200 to complete this.

There are ways to cut down on these high costs. Some parts dealers will find the code from an extra key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns on the ignition) and cut a new metal key blade at less than the dealer's cost. The key, however, must be the same as the original one to function properly in your car.
You can also replace the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need a flathead and a lot of patience. Using the screwdriver, slowly pull the plastic apart and remove the emergency key from the case. Once you have the case open, remove the electronic components and put them in your new case. Put the correct key and badge into the case.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a low-cost component that can be replaced easily and quickly. The YouTube video of Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the remote fob battery with just four easy steps. This tutorial should work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process might differ slightly.
The first step is to find the button that lets off the backup key inside the fob. It's usually near the Saab logo on the back of the fob. Then use a flathead screwdriver to insert into the small hole in this button. This should be enough to unlock the case of the fob to allow you to replace the battery.
Once the new CR1632 battery is in place then you can reassemble your remote key fob. You can then program it to your car. The whole process should take more than a half hour at the most. It is a simple process that does not require any special tools.
The process is more complicated in the event that you lose your key, but it is possible. The dealer has to verify the VIN of the car, and then request a replacement key blade and TWICE module with the exact unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI, a new software tool.
Key Replacement Fob
The key fob is the part that locks and unlocks your car. It has batteries inside. Batteries have a finite lifespan and eventually die. This is a problem that happens with all cars and the good news is that you can replace the batteries on most fobs, without replacing the whole case. Amazon sells replacement fobs that have all the electronics in place. You can simply remove the case and replace the batteries. It is important to keep in mind that you'll need to take out the emergency key first. you can accomplish this by inserting an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head into the slot located in the middle of the case. The case will split as you rotate the screwdriver around it.
If saab key fob are about to replace your keys, ensure that you have a spare as this will reduce your total cost by a substantial amount. If you have a spare you can ask the dealer cut an additional key and program it to the car, which is much cheaper than replacing the entire key fob.
It is possible to add another key to your car if you don't already have one, however it requires a great deal of research and effort. It can cost a few hundred dollars to get an additional car key. The computer in the car must also be programmed. Professionals can accomplish this but it's not a cheap option.
Replacement Ignition
In contrast to earlier Saab vehicles, the latest SAAB 9-3 models are equipped with an advanced alarm system that is built on a key code. This means that should you lose only one working key, adding another one could be very expensive because the car needs to have a specific computer module fitted and must also be programmed to accept a new key. Dealers can charge hundreds of dollars to program the new 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) when you lose your only functioning key. We can reprogram the existing EEPROM in your car computer to be ready to accept an additional key. This will save you more than 50% off what you would pay at an auto dealer.
If you've owned a SAAB 9-3 many years and you're aware of the ignition keys aren't very durable. They can be extremely sticky and the buttons can be ripped off at times It is recommended that you consider purchasing a new one if yours isn't working as it should. It's not so difficult as it may seem to replace the ignition key. With the right tools, it is able to be accomplished in a short time.