What Saab 9-3 Key Replacement Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of special steps to install a second ignition key. This requires a handheld computer, called Tech-2 which is used by the dealer. Then a new key as well as transponder are required to be purchased and programmed to the car.
It is recommended to rotate your keys so that one doesn't wear out more quickly than the other. This will also ensure that your keys remain in pristine condition.
Replacement Case
Contrary to the classic Saab keys of old keys, the latest key fobs are equipped with electronics which makes it hard to duplicate. This has made theft of cars significantly more difficult than 20 years ago. saab 93 key fob G28CarKeys has also made it more expensive to replace lost keys.
Every owner of a Saab 9-3 needs to have at least two functioning keys. If one of them is lost, it costs a lot to replace it in the car because it involves replacing the CIM module and programming the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100-$200 for this.
There are options to avoid these costs. Some parts retailers will search for the code from a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns off the ignition) and cut a new key blade out of metal for just a fraction of dealer cost. The key must be the exact same as the original for it to function in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need an open-faced screwdriver and patience. With the screwdriver, slowly break the plastic and then separate the emergency key from the case. Once the case is open take the electronics out and put them back in your new case. Make sure you put the correct badge and key back into the case as well.
Replacement Battery
The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is a low-cost part that can be quickly and easily replaced. This YouTube video from Cyclone Cyd demonstrates how you can replace the battery for the remote fob in just four steps. This tutorial is compatible with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process might differ slightly.
The button is normally located close to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. It's usually just below the Saab logo on the back of the fob. Then you will need a flathead screwdriver into the small hole inside this button. This should be enough to open the fob's case to allow you to replace the battery.
After the new battery CR1632 is in place then you can reassemble your remote key fob and then program it to your car. The entire process should take no more than a half hour at the most. This is a straightforward process that doesn't require any special tools.
The procedure is a little more complex if you lose the key, but it's possible. The dealer must first read the VIN of the vehicle and then order the replacement TWICE module as well as key blade that is matched to the unique code. The dealer will then need to program the key using MDI, a brand new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is the piece that locks and unlocks your car, it has a battery within. The batteries last for a period of that is a long time, and they eventually go out of service. This is a regular issue that happens with all cars and the good thing is that you can replace the batteries in most fobs, without replacing the whole case. You can buy replacement fobs on Amazon that come with all the electronic components already in place, so you'll just pop open the case and replace the batteries in the original case. It's important to note that you'll need to take out the emergency key first. you can accomplish this by inserting the screwdriver of a small flathead into the slot that is located in the middle of the case. Work the screwdriver around the case, and it should split open, making it easier to remove.
If you're planning to replace your keys, have a spare on hand. This will save you a significant amount of money. If you have an extra key, ask the dealer to cut the key and program it for your car. This is less expensive than purchasing a new key fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add a second key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. It costs around a hundred dollars to add a second car key. The computer of the car also needs to be programmed. Professionals can accomplish this but it's not a cheap option.
Replacement Ignition
The modern SAAB 9-3 is a more sophisticated alarm system built on a keycode. If you lose your only key, it could be expensive to add another one, as the car has to be equipped with a specific computer and be programmed to accept a brand new key. Most locksmiths can't do this and dealers can charge several hundreds of dollars just to program the new key!
If you've lost your only working key the dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make a replacement, and they will charge top dollar for it. Instead we can reprogramme the EEPROM of your current car computer to make it ready to accept a second key, saving you over 50% of what you'd spend at a dealer.
If you've been a long-time owner of a 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you probably have noticed that the ignition switch isn't all that durable. If your ignition key isn't working correctly, you should consider replacing it. They can become very sticky and the buttons are known to fall off. The good news is that replacing the ignition key isn't as difficult as it sounds, and it can be done quickly with the proper tools.