Saab Key Programming

Saab cars made since 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism built on coded keys. The addition of a key requires an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key available.

Transponder key

The transponder is a key that has an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal matches with the one on the key. If both signals match, the car will unlock itself and begin. This is a great way to prevent auto theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.

Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. The metal component of the traditional keys can be easily cut and copied, however the transponder is protected by an electronic chip that guards it. This chip has an individual code that is encoded into the car's system to identify it.

When a saab key fob programming key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it can only do so if the key fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match the original. The car will not start in the event that the key has not been programmed to match.

It is crucial to have a spare Saab key. This is particularly true especially if you live in a rural area with many car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying pricey cost. In most instances, you can get a new key made on-the-spot for less than half the cost of what you'd pay at dealerships.

Key for Wired

Saab cars typically come with two keys when they are new. If you have only one, it is 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 need to be replaced. This can be expensive especially for cars that are used.

The next step is to wire the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a large deal of soldering. There is no standardized way to accomplish this, however it's important to plan out the route you'll take and solder the rows and columns. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns. This means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.

After the rows and column are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins that are used for key switches from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in one direction. It comes with a visual indicator that is black, that shows which way current will flow.

Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can help customers in the shop, or even DIY users in some cases create replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide the customer through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the car's computer.

Jump starting the battery

A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks for emergencies however, jumping a battery in newer vehicles may not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with a number of digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another could cause damage to the components and render your vehicle unable to drive.

Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. 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 under the disabled car's hood. The engine block is an ideal choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery as this could trigger an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected, you need to start the car and let it run for about five minutes. Then disconnect them in reverse. Be aware that the battery of the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, and it may take some time for the battery to go down. It's a good idea to purchase a spare fob as soon as you can, because replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that the lost keys aren't attempting to steal the car.

replacement saab car keys Case

Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if it is lost, they'll be charged. The reason for this is that it's not inexpensive to purchase a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. In the event of theft or any other disaster it is advisable to have a spare key. Even it's "new", it won't work.

The dealer will charge you top dollar if you have only one working key. However, we can reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This could help you save money. It's less expensive rather than wait until you lose the sole key.