Saab Key Programming

Saab cars built since about 1994 have an immobilizer feature that is based on codes for keys. A new transponder is required to allow the inclusion of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer with a specialized Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. It is always advisable to keep an extra set of keys available.

Transponder key

The transponder is a type of key that has an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to see whether it matches the one that is in the key. If the signals match, the car will unlock and begin. This is a fantastic way to protect your car from theft.

Transponder keys are an increasingly popular feature in cars, but you must be aware that they are not as secure as classic metal keys. The metal portion of a traditional key is easily cut and copied, whereas the transponder is protected by an electronic chip that guards it. The chip has an unique code that is encoded into the car's system to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and allow it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has an unmodified chip and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and refuse to start.

It's crucial to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area with numerous car thieves. The good news is that you can find a new key for your saab key battery without having to go to an auto dealer and pay the high costs that they demand. You can have an original key made on the spot for less than half the cost you would pay at an auto dealer.

Wired key

Saab cars typically come with two keys when they are new. If you only own one, you should purchase an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost the car will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive especially if you're purchasing a used car.

The next step is to connect the wires of the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. It's not a common way to go about it, but you need to think about how to route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.

After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current, and prevent them from being shortened. A diode only allows the current to flow in a single direction, and has a the black band as a visual indicator that indicates the direction current will flow.

Some of the tools available at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can assist customers at the shop or DIY users in some cases replace keys in the program and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the car's computer.

Jump-starting the battery

A lot of people keep a set in their trunk to jump-start a car in case of emergency, but it may not be a good option for vehicles with newer technology. They have numerous computers and digital devices that communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another battery could fry the components and render your car undriveable.

Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before you connect the cables to the battery that is not working. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface under the disabled car's hood. The engine block would be an ideal choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks, which could ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.

Once the cables are connected, you should begin the car and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Be aware that the battery of the Saab 9-3 will be charged when you drive, and [Redirect-Java] it may take some time to get the battery back to its original level. It's a good idea purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the only working one requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't trying to steal the car.

Replacement Case

Saab owners typically only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason for this is that it's not cheap to buy a new key, and that involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. In the event of theft, or any other calamity it is recommended to have a spare key. Don't purchase a used key, even if it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new purchased from third-party sellers won't be effective and are almost guaranteed to fail in the most critical moment.

Most locksmiths can't help you when you only have one working key, and the dealer will charge high fees to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer to make it ready to accept a replacement key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you a lot of money. It's more affordable than waiting until you lose the only key.