How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you huge cost. It's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a brand new key when you're down to just one.
Change the battery on your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, cheap and simple to do it yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however, its ignition key can be prone to wear down. saab keys thekeylab.co.uk can become sticky and the buttons are known to be pushed out, which can be a real pain when driving around. It is essential to replace your key fob right away when you notice any issues. This can save you a lot of money in the end and is more beneficial than putting off the task.
You can replace a SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell which will work 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 have removed the electronics, you can replace the battery and then synchronize the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require special care, since they have a transponder that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can analyze the codes from your keys, and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complicated and could cost as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is a good idea to find locksmiths who work with Saabs. These professionals will be able of making you keys at less than the dealer. They can also do other services such as key duplication and replacement so you'll be able to have a backup car key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 have immobilizers that use a chip integrated into the key to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they have a chip. However, there are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value in them) do not require programming and are inexpensive to duplicate. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches made after 2000 will require a dealer for key duplicates. This is because these manufacturers do not permit dealers to participate in NASTF, which is the group that creates the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector utilize to create keys replacements for their customers.
Cost of a New Remote
It is crucial to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that the original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories this can help reduce the cost of replacing the remote.
The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. The keys are typically locked in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer designed for this purpose. This means that if your vehicle requires an additional key for your vehicle you will have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer will cost you less than the locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are stunning cars and a good portion of them are still in operation today. The ignition key is the biggest issue in these cars. The key is tiny and not a great design, and it's known to break or become stuck easily. In fact, many people are left without a functioning key after just a few years of owning the car.
Luckily, it's possible to get an extra key for your SAAB and this is a simple process. First, you must remove the emergency key. This is an easy process that you can carry out yourself and it doesn't require any tools at all. You must be cautious, however as if you press it too much, you could damage the electronics within it.
The next step is to find a place that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You may not be able find these cases easily however if you know where to look, you should not have any trouble finding one. If you find a replacement case, you'll need to have it programmed and cut to fit your car.
It's not cheap to buy a new SAAB key however, the price is worth it. It is much cheaper and faster than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you're only left with one key that works, it's best to get it replaced immediately. You never know when it might be lost, and that can cause a lot frustration and cost.