How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money if you get your spare key manufactured before you lose the one you have. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key when you're only left with one.
It's inexpensive, simple and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however its ignition key can be susceptible to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons are known to fall out, and this can be a major inconvenience when driving around. It's important to replace your key fob as soon as possible whenever you notice any problems. This will help you save money in the end as well as being more effective than procrastinating.
You can change the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell that will work with your vehicle and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've completed this you can easily put the new battery into place and then restart the key fob's synchronization to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special attention, as they contain a transponder that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade device called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. The tool will read the code on your existing keys and then use that information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more involved and may cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is an excellent idea to find an expert locksmith who is associated with Saabs. These professionals can make you key at a cheaper cost than a dealer. They can also provide other services like key replacement or duplication so that you have an additional key in the event yours is lost or damaged.
Most European cars made after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated into the key in order to identify and start your car. saab key fob replacement is the reason these kinds of keys are generally more expensive to duplicate than those without chips. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have a resistor in them) do not require programming and can be duplicated relatively cheaply. Most BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches made after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplication. This is because these manufacturers do not permit dealers to join NASTF, which is the group that produces the tools other locksmiths for automobiles use to make keys to replace for their customers.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you own a Saab car with a keyless entry system then it could be necessary to have a spare remote or key. It can be used in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could lower the cost of replacing a remote.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires a new key for your vehicle, you must visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership isn't going to cost the same amount as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3 is a gorgeous car, and there are a lot of them still in use all over the world. The ignition key is the biggest problem in these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or get stuck. Many have been without a functioning key within the first few years of purchasing their car.
It's simple to find an additional key for your SAAB. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that you can do yourself, and you don't need any tools. You should be cautious though, as if you overdo it you could damage its electronics.
The next step is to find a shop where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by, but once you know where to look, you should be able find one quite easily. Once you have found a replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmed to your car.
It can be expensive to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's cheaper than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it could save you lots of time. If you only have one key that is working it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, and this could cause a lot frustration and expense.