How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one could save you a lot of money. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to originate a new key when you are only left with one.
It's cheap, easy and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great car but the ignition key can be prone to wear out. saab key fob programming www.g28carkeys.co.uk could become slick and the buttons can be pushed out. This can be a pain when driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly you spot any issues. This will help you save money in the long run, and it's also better than waiting.
You can replace the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You will need to purchase an additional shell for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. Once you've done this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then restart the key fob's synchronization to your vehicle.
SAAB keys with remote start systems require special attention since they come with an electronic transponder that needs to be programmed specifically for your 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 then use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more complex and can cost you up to $500 from the dealer.
A good idea is to try and find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They can make you a key for a lower price than the dealer. They also offer other services like key replacement or duplication so that you can have an extra key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
Most European cars made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that utilize a chip embedded inside the key to detect and start your car. This is the reason why these types of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have a chip. There are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor inside) do not require programming and are relatively affordable to duplicate. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches manufactured after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
If you have a Saab car that features a keyless entry system then it's important to have a spare key or remote. This way, you will have one in the event that your 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 made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires an additional key for your vehicle you must visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will cost you less than locksmiths.
Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and many of them are still in use in the present. However, there is a major issue with these cars and that's their ignition keys. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or become stuck. Many people find themselves without a working key after only a few years of owning their car.
It is, however, possible to obtain an additional key for your SAAB and this can be done fairly quickly. First, remove the emergency key. This is a straightforward process that you can do yourself and it does not require any tools whatsoever. You'll need to be careful when you force it too hard you could damage its electronic components.
You will then need to find a location where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily, but if you know where search, you should have no problem finding one. If you find an appropriate case replacement you'll need it programmed and cut to fit your vehicle.
The process of getting an entirely new key for your SAAB isn't cheap however, it's worth it in the end. It's less expensive and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If you only have one key working, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this can cause a lot frustration and expense.