How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
Copying your spare key before you lose your last one can save you huge cash. When you only have one key, it's 2X-10X the cost to make a new one.
It's inexpensive, simple and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.
Cost of Replacement Key
The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a fantastic vehicle however, the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons can be pushed out, which could be a major hassle when driving around. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as quickly as 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 too difficult, and you can make it yourself for about $100. You'll need a replacement key fob shell that can be used with your car and also an additional battery. You'll have to open the case of your current SAAB 9-3 key fob and then carefully remove the electronic components, giving you the opportunity to replace the battery. After you've done this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then resynchronize the key fob with your car.
SAAB keys with the remote start system require special attention because they have a transponder chip in them that must be programmed to your particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can read the code on your keys that are already in use and use this information to program the replacement key. This process can be more complex and may cost you up to $500 if you don't already have an extra.
A good suggestion is to look for locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. They can make you keys at a lower price than the dealer. They can also perform other services, like key replacement or duplication so that you can have an additional key in the event the original one is damaged or lost.
Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built into the key in order to start and recognize your car. This is the reason why these types of keys tend to be more expensive to duplicate than those without the chip. However, there are some exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical, but contain a tiny resistor value inside) don't require programming and are inexpensive to duplicate. However, most post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. The manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF. This group makes the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.
Cost of a New Remote
It is vital to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in the event that your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on protection, then it can reduce the cost.
Most car keys for cars made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. The majority of these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically made for this purpose. If you require to replace the key in your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge as much as a locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and a lot of them are still in use in the present. However, there's a major issue with these vehicles and that is their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and it is easy to lose it or get stuck. Many people are left without a functioning key after only a few years of owning their car.
It's not difficult to find a spare key to use with your SAAB. saab key replacement cost to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's an easy task you can complete yourself and you don't need any tools. You should be careful, however as if you press it too hard, you might damage the electronics within it.
In the meantime, you'll need to locate a place that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find, but If you know where to look then you are likely to find one quite easily. When you locate an appropriate case replacement, you'll need to have it cut and programmed to fit your vehicle.
It's not cheap to get a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's cheaper than replacing the entire vehicle, and it could save you lots of time. If you only have one key working it's best to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, which could lead to lots of frustration and cost.