How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

Copying your spare key before you lose the last one can save you big cost. When you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X the cost to make the new one.

It's cheap, easy and simple to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.

Cost of a Key Replacement

The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car but the ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case can become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which can be a real pain while driving. It's crucial to replace your key fob immediately whenever you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is far better than putting off the replacement.

Replacing the SAAB key fob is not difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need to buy a new key fob case which will work with your vehicle and an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll have to carefully remove the electronic components from your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After removing the electronics you can simply replace the battery and then synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.

SAAB keys with remote start systems require special attention, as they contain transponders that need to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. This tool can scan the code on your existing keys, Saab Key Fob and then use this information to program the replacement key. This process could be more complex and can cost up to $500 if you don't have an extra.

A good suggestion is to look for locksmiths who work on Saabs. They'll be able to make you a new key at lower cost than the dealer. They can also provide other services such as key duplication and replacement, which means you'll have a backup key for your car in the event yours gets lost or damaged.

Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems, which depend on a microchip incorporated into the key in order to start and recognize the car. This is why these kinds of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than keys without chips. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical with a resistor inside) don't require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and saab spare key vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group develops the tools used by other auto locksmiths to create replacement keys.

Cost of Replacement Remote

It is important to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This way you can have one in the case that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could lower the cost of a replacement remote.

The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually locked in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer specifically designed for this purpose. This means that if it is necessary to get a new key for your vehicle, you have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will charge less than a locksmith.

The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and many of are still in use in the present. The ignition key is the most significant issue for these cars. The key is small and doesn't have a very appealing design and is known to break or become stuck easily. Many people have found themselves without a functioning key in just a few years of buying their car.

It's not difficult to find a spare key for your SAAB. First, you need to remove the emergency key. It's a simple job you can complete yourself and you don't require any tools. You will need to be careful, however in case you force it too hard, you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.

Then, you will be required to find a retailer that offers an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily but if know where to look, you should not have any difficulty finding one. Once you find a replacement case it is necessary to have it programmed and cut to fit your car.

It's expensive to purchase a new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It's a lot cheaper than having to replace your entire vehicle. It also could save you lots of time. If you're left with one key that works, it's recommended to replace it in the earliest time possible. You don't know when it could be lost, and this can cause a lot frustration and expense.