Saab Key Programming

Saab cars made since 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism built on coded keys. A new transponder is required in order to enable the inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. You should always keep a spare set of keys in your possession.

Transponder key

The transponder is a type of key that is equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to see whether it is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are in sync it will unlock and start. This is a great method to protect your vehicle from theft.

Transponder keys can be an extremely popular accessory for automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key may be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip has a unique code that's programmed into a car's computers in order to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and allow it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. The car will not start when the key isn't programmed to match.

It is crucial to have an extra saab key fob programming key. This is particularly important especially if you reside in a rural region where there are a lot of car thieves. The good thing is that you can find a new key for your Saab without having to go to a dealer and pay the hefty prices that they charge. You can get a replacement key made on the spot at a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership.

Wired key

Saab cars typically come with two keys when new. If you have only one, it's recommended to purchase an extra key fob as soon as you can, because 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 used vehicles.

The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a great amount of soldering. There is no standardized way to accomplish this, but it is crucial to plan the route you'll take and solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you can connect to this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.

After the columns and rows are soldered together, it is time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode on each key switch pin and solder it. This will protect the pins of the key switch from current and prevent them from being shorted. A diode can only allow current to flow in one direction, and it also has a an indicator in black that indicates the direction current will flow.

A few of the tools that are 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 data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the user through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.

Jump starting the battery

Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks for emergency situations, but jumping a battery in newer vehicles might not be the best option. These vehicles are equipped with electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A voltage surge when the battery is connected another can fry the components, rendering your car undriveable.

Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Let it run for two minutes. 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 to a clear, unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of the damaged car. The engine block is a good choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in a spark, which would ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.

After the cables have been connected, you need to start the vehicle and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It will take a while for it to return to its original state. It's a good idea buy a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the only functioning one requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't in the process of trying to steal the car.

Replacement case

Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it's costly to buy a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It is best to have a second key in case of theft or any other catastrophe, and the best way is to purchase an extra key as quickly as you can. Don't buy a secondhand service key even if it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new purchased from third-party sellers won't work and are likely to fail at the critical moment.

The dealer will charge you the highest dollar for only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order to make it ready to accept a new key without the need to replace the entire system. This could save you a great deal of money. It's less expensive rather than wait until you lose the only key.