The Advanced Guide To Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built from 1994 have an immobilizer system that relies on key codes. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of an extra key, and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this could be extremely expensive. It is recommended to always have a spare set of keys in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key that is equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car checks to see if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals are identical the car will be able to unlock itself and start. This is a fantastic way to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in cars, but it is important to know that they aren't as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key could be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip contains a unique code that is programmed into the car's computer in order to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. But, it's only able to do so if the key fob is unmodified and has a chip that has been programmed to match the original. The car will not start in the event that the key is not programmed to match.
It's essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially important for those who live in a rural area with numerous car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by going to the dealership without paying their pricey costs. In most instances, you can get a brand new key made right on the spot for less than half the price of what you'd pay at a dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars usually come with two keys when new. If saab 9-3 key fob replacement have one, you need to purchase an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car is damaged, it will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be expensive, especially for used cars.
The next step is to connect the wires of columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. There's no standard way to accomplish this, but it's important to plan out the way you'll route and solder the rows and columns. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, so there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the columns and rows are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. To do this, put an inverter over each pin of the key switch and then solder it. This will protect the pins from current, preventing them from getting shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator that is black, that shows the direction in which the current will flow.
A few of the tools that are available at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- could aid shop customers or DIY customers in some cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the car's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks in case of emergency however, jumping a battery for newer cars might not be the best option. These vehicles are equipped with many computers and digital devices which communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another one could damage these components, rendering your car unable to drive.
Start the working vehicle and let it run for about 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 would be an excellent choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery as this could cause an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
After the cables have been connected, you should start the car and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged as you drive. It will take a while for it to drop back down. You should purchase an additional key fob as soon as possible. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose that it's going to cost them. The reason for this is that it's not inexpensive to purchase a new key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. In the event of theft or any other calamity it is best to have a spare key. Don't purchase a used key, even if it's "new." Keys that are claimed as new purchased from third-party sellers won't perform and are almost certain to fail at the crucial moment.
Most locksmiths can't help you if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle to create a replacement. However, we can reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM to accept the new key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you lots of money. It's much cheaper rather than wait until you lose the sole key.