Then You've Found Your Saab Ignition Key Replacement ... Now What?
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced from 1994 have an immobilizer that relies on keys that are coded. The addition of a key requires the purchase of a new transponder as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always have a spare key available.
Transponder key
The transponder key is a key equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal back to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The car then examines the signal to see whether it is the same as that of the key. If the signals are in sync the car will then unlock and start. This is a great way to deter auto theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a favored feature in automobiles, however you must be aware that they are not as secure as classic keys made of metal. While the metal component of a traditional key may be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. The chip is a unique code that is inserted into a car's computers in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and allow it to be turned on. The car will only recognize the key fob if the device has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car will reject the key and refuse to start.
It is essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly important especially if you reside in a rural location where there are numerous car thieves. You can purchase a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying pricey cost. In most cases, you can have a new key created on-the-spot for less than half the price of what you'd pay at the dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars typically come with two keys when new. If you only have one, it is a good idea to get an extra key fob as soon as is possible in case you lose it, your car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders have to be replaced. This can be costly especially if purchasing a used car.
The next step is to connect the wires for columns and rows to your microcontroller. This is the most laborious part of the project, and will require lots of soldering. There is no standard method to accomplish this, but it is essential to determine how you will route and solder the rows and columns. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to the key switches. To do this, you need to place a diode across each pin of the key switch and then solder it. This will shield the key switch pins from current and keep them from being shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in one direction. It comes with a visual indicator with a black band that shows which way current will flow.
Some of the tools offered at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- may help shop customers or even DIY customers in certain instances replace keys in the program and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jumpstarting the battery
Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks for emergencies, but jumping a battery for newer automobiles might not be the best option. These vehicles are equipped with computers and digital devices which communicate with one another. A surge in voltage while the battery is connected to another battery could fry these components and leave your vehicle undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle operating. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good. ( saab ignition key replacement will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface under the hood of your disabled car. The engine block is a great alternative. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as this could trigger a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
After the cables have been connected, you need to start the vehicle and let it run about five minutes. Then disconnect the cables in reverse. Be aware that the battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged while you drive, so it may take some time to get the battery down. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't in the process of trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners only have one key for their car and if they lose it, the cost will be. The reason for this is that it's costly to buy a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. In the event of theft or any other catastrophe, it is best to have an extra key. But don't buy a used key, even 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.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar if you only have one working key. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer to make it ready to accept a new key without the need to replace the entire system. This could save you a great deal of money. It's less expensive instead of waiting until you lose the only key.