How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied prior to losing the previous one could save you a lot of cost. It's typically 2X-10X cheaper to create a new key when you're down to just one.
The process of replacing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy and inexpensive to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle, but the ignition key can be prone to wear out. The case can become sticky and buttons can be pushed out. This can cause inconvenience when driving. saab 93 key to replace your key fob immediately if you notice any issues. This could save you a significant amount of money in the end and is more beneficial than putting off repairs.
Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll need an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob, which is compatible with your vehicle, as well as a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start system require special attention due to a transponder chip that must be programmed to the specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. This tool is able to analyze the codes from your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. This process could be more complex and can cost up to $500 if you don't have an extra.
A good suggestion is to look for a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They can provide you with key at a cheaper price than the dealer. They can also do other services such as key duplication and replacement, so you'll be able to keep a backup car key in the event that yours gets lost or damaged.
Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip embedded into the key in order to start and recognize your vehicle. This is the reason why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those without chips. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value in them) do not require programming and are relatively inexpensive to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because these manufacturers do not allow dealers to be part of NASTF which is the group which makes the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector make keys that can be used to replace their customers' keys.
Cost of Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab vehicle that has a keyless entry system then it is important to have a spare remote or key. It can be used in the event that your primary key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote could be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that provides key add-on protection, then this will help reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM that can only be read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires an additional key for your vehicle, you will have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge as much as locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are stunning cars and a good portion of are still in use in the present. However, there's a big problem with these cars and it's the ignition key. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design and is known to break or become stuck easily. Many people have found themselves without a functioning key within just a few years of buying their car.
It's simple to find a spare key to use with your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple process that is done by yourself and you don't require any tools. You must be careful, however in case you force it too much, you could damage the electronics inside of it.
The next step is to find a place that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find, but once you know where to look, you should be able find one quickly. Once you've found the replacement key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmable to your car.
The process of obtaining a new key for your SAAB isn't cheap but it's worth it in the long run. It's much less expensive and quicker than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working it is recommended to replace it as quickly as you can. You don't know when it could be lost, and that can cause a lot frustration and expense.