How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Getting your spare key copied before you lose the last one can save you significant cost. If you only have one key, it's 2X-10X more expensive to create an entirely new one.
It's simple, inexpensive and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car however, its ignition key can be susceptible to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this can be a real pain while driving. It's important to replace your key fob right away if you notice any issues. This can save you lots of money over the long term as well as being more effective than putting off repairs.
You can change the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need an alternative shell for your key fob that will work with your vehicle and an entirely new battery. You'll need to remove the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronic components, giving you an opportunity to replace the battery. After you've done this you can simply insert the new battery and then resynchronize the key fob with your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special attention, as they contain transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can identify the code on your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complex and can cost you up to $500 from the dealer.
A good tip is to look for a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. These experts will be able of making you keys at less than the dealer. They also offer other services like key replacement and duplication to ensure you have an extra key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 have immobilizers that use a chip integrated into the key to identify and start your car. This is why these types of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical, with a resistor inside) don't require programming and can be duplicated fairly cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. The NASTF group creates the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is important to have an additional remote or key if you have 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 could be very costly. If saab 9-3 replacement key G28 Car Keys have an insurance policy that provides key add-on coverage, it can reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM which can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires an additional key for your car, you have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not charge as much as locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and a good portion of are still in use in the present. The ignition key is the biggest problem for these cars. The key is extremely small and doesn't have a very appealing design and it's known to fall out or get stuck easily. Many people find themselves without a working key within a couple of years of owning their car.
Luckily, you can obtain an additional key for your SAAB and it is a simple process. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's an easy task you can complete yourself and you don't require any tools. You should be careful, though in case you force it too much, you could damage the electronics within it.
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, but If you know where to look, you should be able to find one quickly. When you locate an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it cut and programmed to fit your car.
The process of obtaining a new key for your SAAB could be quite costly, but it is definitely worth it in the long run. It is much cheaper and quicker than having to replace the entire vehicle. So if you're down to one working key then it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You never know when the key will be lost, which can cause a lot of frustration and expense.