Saab Key Programming

Saab cars produced since 1994 use an immobilizer system that is based on keys that are coded. Adding an extra key requires an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always have a spare key on hand.

Transponder key

The transponder key is a piece of hardware equipped with an electronic chip. It transmits a signal to the car when it is inserted into ignition. The car is able to check if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals are in sync, the car will unlock and begin. This is a great method to deter car theft and keep your car safe from thieves.

Transponder keys are a common feature in cars, but it is important to know that they aren't as secure as traditional keys made of metal. The metal portion of a traditional key is easily cut and copied, however transponders are protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. This chip contains an unique code which is programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it will only do this if the key fob is unmodified and has a chip that has been programmed to match the original. In the absence of that, the car will refuse to accept the key and will not start.

It is vital to have a spare Saab key. This is particularly important for those who live in a rural area, where there are a lot of car burglars. The good thing is that you can find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealership and pay the hefty prices that they ask. In the majority of instances, you can get a brand new key made right on the spot for less than half the cost of what you would pay at a dealer.

Wired key

saab keys cars are usually provided with two keys. If you have only one, saab key Fob it's recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as is possible since if you lose it, the car will require a new CIM unit and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This can be costly, especially if you are purchasing a used vehicle.

The next step is to connect the wires of the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most laborious component of the project and will require a lot of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, but you must consider how you will connect and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns, so there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.

Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's the time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the pins from current, and prevent them from being shorted. A diode can only allow current to flow in one direction, and it also has a a black band visual indicator that shows the direction in which current will flow.

Sanabria says that some of the tools available in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508 can assist shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer. The tools plug into the OBD port and guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer in the vehicle.

Jump-starting the battery

Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunk for emergency situations, but jumping a battery in newer vehicles may not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with digital and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another one could cause damage to the parts and render your vehicle unusable.

Start the vehicle that is working and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the battery that is not working. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface underneath the disabled car's hood--the engine block is a good option. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery as it could ignite an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

After the cables have been connected, start the vehicle and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then disconnect them in reverse. Be aware that the battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged while you drive, so it could take a while for the battery to go back to its original level. You should purchase a second key fob, as soon as you can. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.

Replacement Case

Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason for this is that it's costly to buy a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. In the event of theft or other catastrophe it is best to have an extra key. Even even if the key is "new" it won't work.

Most locksmiths can't help you when you only have one working key, and the dealer will charge for the cost of replacing the computer in your car to make a new replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order for it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. This can save you a lot of money. It's cheaper to do this than wait until you lose your only key.