How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save lots of money if you get your spare key before you lose your first one. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to make a new key when you are down to just 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 SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle, but the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case can get sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this could be a major hassle while driving. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This can help you save money in the long run, and it's also better than waiting.
Replacing g28carkeys.co.uk is not difficult and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob that will work with your vehicle, as well as an entirely new battery. It is necessary to open the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronics to give the opportunity to replace the battery. After removing the electronics you can simply replace the battery and synchronize the key fob to your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require special attention because they have a transponder chip in them that needs to be programmed to your particular vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. This tool will be able to scan the code on the keys you have and use this information to program your new key. This procedure can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.
A good idea is to find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They will be able of making you keys at lower cost than the dealer. They can also provide other services like key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a spare car key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European automobiles manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that depend on a microchip incorporated inside the key to recognize and start your vehicle. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they are equipped with chips. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value within) don't require programming and are relatively inexpensive to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because the manufacturers don't allow their dealers to be part of NASTF which is the organization that produces the tools other locksmiths for automobiles use to create keys replacements for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is important to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be very costly. If you have an insurance policy with key add-on coverage then this can help reduce the cost.
Most car keys for cars that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your car, you will have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealership isn't going to cost the same amount as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car and there are many of them still in use around the world today. But, there's a major issue with these cars and it's their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or get stuck. Many people have a non-functioning key within a couple of years of owning the vehicle.
It's easy to obtain an additional key for your SAAB. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple task that you can complete yourself and you don't require any tools. You should be careful, though as if you press it too hard, you could harm the electronics inside it.
You will then have to locate a shop that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. These are not always easy to find however once you know where to look then you should be able find one fairly easily. Once you've found a replacement key case, you'll need to have it cut and programmable 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 can save you a lot of time. So if you're down to one working key, it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, and that can cause a lot of frustration and cost.