So , You've Purchased Saab Ignition Key Replacement ... Now What?
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built from 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on keys that are coded. In order to add a second key, it requires an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. Always keep an extra set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder key is a piece of hardware equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal to car when it is placed in the ignition. The car is able to check if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals match it will unlock and start. This is a great way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in cars, but you should be aware they're not as secure as classic metal keys. The metal component of a traditional key can easily be cut and copied, whereas transponders have an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip has a unique code programmed into the car's computer 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 when it has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. The car won't start if the key is not programmed to match.
It's crucial to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially true for those who live in a rural region where there are a lot of car burglars. You can get a brand new key for your Saab by going to the dealership, without having to pay their high cost. You can have an original key made on the spot for less than half the price you'd spend at a dealership.
Key for Wired
Saab cars usually come with two keys when they're new. If you own only one, it is recommended to get an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if you lose it, the car will need an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially if purchasing a used vehicle.
The next step is to connect the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most tedious part of the project, and will require lots of soldering. It's not a standard way to do it, but you must think about how to route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, so there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.
After the columns and rows are joined It is now time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the pins from current, preventing them from being cut off. A diode can only allow the current to flow in a single direction, and it has a black band visual indicator that indicates the direction current will flow.
Sanabria states that some of the tools offered in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 can assist customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it much easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jump starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunk for emergency situations, but jumping a battery on newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with digital and computers that communicate with one another. A voltage surge when batteries are connected to another battery could damage the components and render your vehicle unusable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach saab 9-3 replacement key of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface under the disabled car's hood. The engine block is a good option. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in sparks that could ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, you need to start the vehicle and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then disconnect them in reverse. Remember that the battery on the Saab 9-3 will be charged when you drive, so it can take a while for the battery to go back down again. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only functioning one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and a special program to convince it that the lost keys aren't trying to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. The reason for this is that it's expensive to replace a key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. It's recommended to have a backup key in case of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to purchase a second key as soon as you can. Even it's "new" it will not function.
The dealer will charge you top dollar for only one working key. However, we can reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the entire system. This can save you a lot of money. It's also less expensive than waiting until you lose your one key.