How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

You can save a lot of money by having your spare key manufactured before you lose the one you have. If you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X the cost to make a new one.

It's easy, cheap and simple to replace 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 could be a major hassle when you're driving. This is why it's a good idea to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This will save you a significant amount of cash in the long run and is also more efficient than putting off the task.

You can replace a SAAB's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell that can be used with your vehicle, and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you've done this, you can easily fit the new battery into place and then reconnect the key fob to your vehicle.

SAAB keys that have the remote start system require particular attention because they have a transponder chip in them that must be programmed to the particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. This tool can identify the code on your existing keys and use this information to program your new key. This process can be more complicated and cost up to $500 if you don't already have an extra.

A good idea is to locate locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can provide you with key at a cheaper price than the dealer. They also provide other services like key replacement or duplication to ensure that you have an extra key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.

Most European cars built after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built into the key to identify and start the car. This is why these types of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have the chip. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor inside) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly cheaply. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because these brands do not allow dealers to be part of NASTF which is the organization that makes the tools that other automotive locksmiths utilize to create keys replacements for their customers.

Cost of a New Remote

If you own a Saab car that features keyless entry, it is important to have a spare key or remote. This will give you one in the event that your original key is lost or broken. If you have insurance that covers key accessories this can help lower the cost of replacing a remote.

The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your vehicle you have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealership will not charge as much as locksmiths.

The Saab 9-3 is a stunning car, and there are plenty of them in use across the globe today. However, there's one major issue with these vehicles and it's the ignition key. The key is extremely small and spare doesn't have a very appealing design and is known to lose its grip or get stuck easily. Many have been lacking a key that worked within a few years after purchasing their car.

Fortunately, it is possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and it can be done quickly. First, you must remove the emergency key. It's a simple job is done by yourself and you don't require any tools. You should be careful, though when you push the process too hard, you might damage the electronics within it.

You will then need to find a location that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily but if know where to look you should have no problem finding one. Once you find an appropriate case replacement you'll need it cut and programmed to fit your car.

The process of getting the 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. If you only have one key working you should replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which could cause a lot of frustration and cost.