Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Saab 9-3 Key Replacement
How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of steps that are unique to add a second ignition key. This requires an electronic handheld computer, referred to as Tech-2, to be 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 does not wear out more quickly than the other. This will also help to keep your keys in pristine condition.
Replacement Case
Contrary to the classic Saab keys of old, the new key fobs contain electronics that make it difficult to duplicate. G28CarKeys has made car theft considerably more difficult than it was years ago. It has also made it more expensive to replace keys lost.
Every owner of a 9-3 Saab should have at least two functioning keys. It is expensive to replace a lost or damaged key since it requires replacing the CIM module, as well as reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers typically charge between $100 and $200 for this.
There are several ways to get around the high price. Some parts suppliers can look up the code on an extra key (usually the same one that opens the doors and switches the ignition) and cut a brand new key blade out of metal for only a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must, however, be identical to the original to work correctly within your car.
You can also replace the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. Utilizing the screwdriver, slowly pry the plastic apart and remove the emergency key from the case. Once you have the case open, remove the electronic components and put them in the new case. Make sure to insert the correct key and badge back in the case too.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a low-cost part that can be replaced quickly and easily. This DIY video from YouTube user Cyclone Cyd explains how to replace the battery in the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial can be used for any modern-day saab key fob however the procedure might differ slightly.

The first step is to find the button that lets off the backup key inside the fob. This button is usually on the back of the fob right next to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver into the tiny hole on this button. This should be sufficient to open the fob case to allow you to change the battery.
Once you have installed the CR1632 batteries, you can rebuild the remote key fob. You can then program it into your car. The whole process should not take more than one hour. It's a very easy process that does not require any special tools.
The process can be a bit more complicated in the event that you lose your key, but still possible. The dealer has to first verify the VIN of the vehicle and order the replacement TWICE module as well as key blade that has the correct unique code. After that, they'll be required to cut the replacement key and then program it using an innovative software tool called MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob contains an internal battery that is used to lock and unlock your vehicle. The batteries are able to last for and will eventually fail. It is a common problem that affects all cars. The good thing is that you can replace the battery on most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can purchase replacement fobs on Amazon that have all the electronics already installed, so you can simply open the case and replace those batteries that are old. It's important to note that you'll need to remove the emergency key first. you can accomplish this by inserting the screwdriver of a small flathead into the slot found in the middle of the case. The screwdriver should be moved around the case, and it should split open, making it simple to remove.
If you're about to replace the keys make sure you have a spare, because this can cut down your total cost by a significant amount. If you have an extra key, ask the dealer to cut it and program it for your vehicle. This is a lot less expensive than purchasing a new key fob.
It is possible to add another key to your car if you don't already have one, however it requires some research and work. It costs a few hundred bucks to add an additional car key. The computer in the car also needs to be programmed. This can be done by a professional, but it's a costly choice for most owners.
Replacement Ignition
Contrary to the earlier Saab automobiles, the new SAAB 9-3 models feature an advanced alarm system that is based on a coded key. This means that in the event that you lose your only working key, acquiring an additional one could be extremely expensive as the car has to have a special computer module installed, and it must also be specifically designed to accept a different key. Even a dealer can charge hundreds of dollars to program the new key if they are unable to complete the task.
Dealers will charge you the highest price to replace your car's computer (also called the CIM or SAAB twice) when you lose your only working key. We can reprogram the existing EEPROM on your car's computer so that it's prepared for a new key. This will save you more than 50% of the cost you spend at an auto dealer.
If you've been a long-time owner of a 03-11 SAAB 9-3, you likely have noticed that the ignition switch isn't all that robust. They can become incredibly sticky and the buttons can fall off occasionally, so you should consider purchasing a new one if yours isn't working as it should. Luckily, replacing the ignition key isn't as difficult as it sounds and is fairly easy to do with the right tools.