How To Save Money On Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on codes for keys. A new transponder is required to allow the addition of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then examines the signal to see whether it matches the one on the key. If the signals are identical, the car will unlock itself and begin. This is an excellent way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are an increasingly popular feature in automobiles, but it is important to know that they're not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key may be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip contains a 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. However, it will only do this if your key fob has a non-modified chip that has been programmed to match the original. The car won't start if the key is not programmed to match.
It's essential to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly true especially if you live in a rural location that has many car thieves. The good news is that it's possible to find a replacement key to your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealership and pay the expensive prices that they charge. You can have a replacement key created on the spot at a fraction of the price you'd spend at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided 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, your car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders will need to be replaced. This can be costly especially if you're buying a used car.
The next step is connecting the wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and requires a significant amount of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, but you should consider how you will route and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect for this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 column.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. To do this, put a diode on each pin on the key switch and then solder it. This will protect the pins of the key switch from current and keep them from being shorted. saab car key replacement permits current to only flow in only one direction. It features a visual indicator of a black line that shows which way current will flow.
Sanabria says that a few of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, including the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508, can help shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunk to use in an emergency, but jumping a battery on modern automobiles might not be the best choice. These vehicles are equipped with numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage while the battery is connected to another could cause damage to these components and render your car undriveable.
Start the vehicle you are using and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the non-working one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of the damaged vehicle. The engine block is an excellent alternative. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could cause sparks that could ignite the gasoline that is in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, start the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. Keep in mind that the battery on your Saab 9-3 is recharged during your drive, which means it could take a while for the battery to come back down again. You should invest in an additional key fob when you can. Replacing the only one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.
Replacement case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if it is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's not cheap to purchase a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It is best to have a spare key in the event of theft or other disaster, and the best way is to purchase a second key as soon as you are able to. Don't buy a secondhand key even when it's "new." Keys that are claimed as new from sellers selling aftermarket keys won't perform and are almost certain to fail in the crucial moment.
Most locksmiths aren't able to help when you only have one working key, and the dealer will charge high prices to replace the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM for it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. That can save you a lot of money. It's more affordable instead of waiting until you loose the only key.