The Top Saab 9-3 Key Replacement The Gurus Are Using 3 Things
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a unique set of steps to add an additional key. This requires a handheld computer, called Tech-2 which is to be used by the dealer. Then a new key and transponder need to be bought and programmed to the car.
It is a good idea to rotate your keys so that one does not get worn out more quickly than the other. This will keep your keys in pristine condition.
saab 9-3 replacement key are not like the older Saab keys. They feature electronic components that make them difficult to copy. That has made car theft much more difficult than it was just a few years ago. It has also made it more expensive to replace lost keys.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys working. If one is lost it costs a fortune to purchase a new one for the car, as it requires replacing the CIM module and reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 to do this.
There are ways to reduce these costs. Some parts suppliers can look up the code from a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns off the ignition) and cut a new metal key blade at just a fraction of dealer cost. The key, however, must be identical to the original one in order to function in your vehicle.
You can also change the case yourself by following these steps. You will need to have a flathead and patience. With the screwdriver, break apart the plastic, and then take off the emergency key. Once the case is open, take the electronics out and put them in your new case. Insert the correct key and badge inside the case.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a low-cost part that can be replaced quickly and easily. This YouTube video by Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the remote fob battery with only four steps. This tutorial will work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process could differ slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that releases the backup key in the fob. The button is usually found on the back of your fob just below the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver in the small hole on this button. This should be sufficient to allow you to open the fob case so that you can 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 entire process should take no more than a half hour at the most. This is a straightforward procedure that doesn't require special tools.
The process is more complicated in the event that you lose your key, but it is possible. The dealer must find the VIN number of the car and then order a replacement key blade and TWICE module, both with the exact unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI, a new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob has batteries that are used to lock and unlock your car. The batteries last for a period of and eventually go out of service. This is a regular issue that affects all cars and the good thing is that you can replace the batteries on most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can purchase replacement fobs from Amazon that come with all the electronics already installed, so you'll be able to simply open the case and replace the batteries in the original case. It is important to remember that you'll have to remove the emergency key first, and you can do this by putting the small screwdriver flathead into the slot that is located in the middle of the case. The case should split when you work the screwdriver all around it.
If you're ready to change your keys, be sure to have a spare available. This can save you a lot of money. If you have a spare, you can request that the dealer cut an additional key and program it to the car, which is much cheaper than replacing the whole key fob.
It is possible to add another key to your car if you don't already have one, however it requires lots of research and effort. It will cost you a few hundred dollars to purchase a second car key. The computer of the car also needs to be programmed. Professionals can do this however, it's a costly option.
Replacement Ignition
The latest SAAB 9-3 features a more sophisticated alarm system based on a key code. This means that if you lose your only functioning key, getting an additional one could be extremely costly since the car needs to have a specific computer module added and it must also be programmed to accept an extra key. The majority of locksmiths aren't able to do this and dealers will charge hundred dollars just to program the new key!
If you've lost only one working key the dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to create the replacement, and will charge top dollar for it. We can reprogram the existing EEPROM inside your car's computer to make it ready to accept an additional key. This will save you more than 50% off the cost you have to pay the dealer.
If you've been a long time owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you probably realize that the ignition key isn't really all that robust. They can become extremely sticky, and the buttons are known to be removed from them occasionally It is recommended that you consider buying a new one if the one you have isn't performing as it should. Luckily, replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it sounds, and it is fairly easy to do using the right tools.