The Most Significant Issue With Saab Ignition Key Replacement, And How You Can Solve It
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism made up of coded keys. 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 the 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 key comes equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal back to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to determine whether it is the same as that of the key. If the signals are identical, the car will unlock itself and begin. This is a great method to avoid auto theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a popular addition to automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key could be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip contains 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. The car can only recognize the key fob if it has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. The car will not start in the event that the key has not been programmed to match.
It is vital to have an extra Saab key. This is especially important especially if you live in a rural region that has numerous car thieves. You can get a brand new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying pricey costs. You can have a replacement key created on the spot at a fraction of what you would pay at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars typically come with two keys when they are new. If you only have one, you should purchase an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost, the car will need a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly, especially if you are purchasing a used car.
The next step is to connect the wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you must determine how to connect and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect for this keyboard. It has 5 rows and 17 columns.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's the time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will shield the key switch pins from current and prevent them from being shorted. The diode will only allow current to flow in one direction, and it also has a an indicator of black color that indicates which way the current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 are able to assist shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
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 in newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with a number of digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another could cause damage to the components and render your car unable to drive.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Let The Key Lab run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks, which could ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, you can start the vehicle you are not using and allow it to run for around five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It will take a while for it to return to its original state. It's a good idea buy a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys aren't attempting to steal the car.
Replacement case
Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. It's expensive to purchase an additional key and it requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft or any other calamity it is best to have an extra key. Don't purchase a used key even the case that it's "new." Keys that are claimed as new from sellers selling aftermarket keys won't be effective and are almost guaranteed to fail in the most critical moment.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar if you have only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer for it to accept a new key without having to replace the entire system. This could save you a lot of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.