How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose the last one can save you huge cash. When you only have one key, it's generally 2X-10X as expensive to make an original one.
It's inexpensive, simple and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car but the ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case could become slick and the buttons can be pushed out. This could be a issue when driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will save you money in the long run, and is better than waiting.
Replacing the SAAB key fob is not too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase a replacement key fob shell which will work with your vehicle, and an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics you can simply replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular attention since they come with an electronic transponder that needs to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require an instrument designed for dealers called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. The tool can read the code from your existing keys and use this information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complex and can cost you as much as $500 from the dealer.
An excellent tip is to locate locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can provide you with the key at a lower cost than a dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key replacement or duplication so that you have an additional key in the event yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built inside the key to begin and recognize the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they have chip. However, there are a few exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches produced after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplicates. This is due to the fact that these manufacturers do not allow dealers to be part of NASTF which is the organization that makes the tools that other locksmiths for automobiles use to create keys replacements for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab vehicle that has keyless entry, it could be necessary to have a spare remote or key. This will allow you to have one in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. The cost of a replacement remote could be very costly. If you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage then this will help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. Most of the time, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer specially designed for this purpose. saab car key thekeylab.co.uk means that if you need a new key for your vehicle, you must visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge less than locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and a lot of are still in use in the present. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or become stuck. Many have been without a functioning key within several years of purchasing their car.
Luckily, you can get an additional key for your SAAB and this can be done fairly quickly. First, take out the emergency key. This is a straightforward process which you can complete yourself, and it doesn't require any tools at all. Be cautious when you press it too hard you could damage the electronics.
The next step is to find a place where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases readily, but if know where to look, you should have no problem finding one. Once you find a replacement case, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to fit your car.
It's not cheap to purchase a brand new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It's a lot cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle, and it will save you a lot of time. If you only have one key that is working you should replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, and that can cause a lot of frustration and expense.