How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money by having your spare key manufactured before you lose the one you have. If you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X the cost to make an entirely new one.
It's easy, cheap and easy to replace the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle but the ignition key tends to wear out. The case can become sticky and the buttons could be pushed out. This can cause issue while driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end and is better than waiting.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob yourself for less than $100. You'll need to buy a replacement key fob shell that is compatible with your car and also an additional battery. You'll need to remove the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the chance to replace the battery. Once you've completed this you can simply insert the new battery into place and then reset the key fob's synchronization with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular care, since they have a transponder that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. To achieve this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent to your particular model of Saab. This tool can read the code on your keys that are already in use and then use that information to program the replacement key. This process can be more complicated and cost up to $500 if you don't have a spare.
It is a good idea to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. These experts will be able to design and make keys at less than the dealer. They also offer other services, such as key duplication and replacement, making it possible to have a backup car key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.
Most European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built into the key to begin and recognize your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they have chips. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value within) do not require programming and are cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. The NASTF group creates the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
If you own a Saab vehicle that has a keyless entry system then it could be necessary to have a spare key or remote. You can use it in case your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage, it can reduce the cost.
Most car keys for cars that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealership isn't going to cost as much as a locksmith.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and many of them are still in use in the present. However, there's a major issue with these cars and it's the ignition key. The key is very small and not a great design and is known to be lost or stuck easily. In reality, a lot of people have a non-functioning key within a couple of years of owning the vehicle.
Luckily, replacement saab car keys to find an additional key to your SAAB and this can be done quickly. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that you can perform yourself, and you don't require any tools. Be cautious however, because if you push it too hard you could damage its electronic components.
The next step is to find a shop where you can buy an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They can be difficult to come by however if you know where to look, you should be able to find one quite easily. When you locate an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
It's not cheap to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's much less expensive than replacing your entire vehicle and it can save you a lot of time. If you have only one key that is working, it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're going to lose it, and this could lead to a lot of frustration and cost.