How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by getting your spare key made prior to the time you lose your last one. If you only have one key, it's generally 2X-10X as costly to make an entirely new one.
It's cheap, easy and easy 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 however its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case may become sticky and buttons can be pushed out. This could be a inconvenience when driving. It's important to change your key fob promptly if you notice any issues. This will save you money over the long term, and is far better than putting off the replacement.
You can change the SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need to purchase an alternative shell for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle, as well as an entirely new 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 synchronize your key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular attention because they include transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to do this. The tool can analyze the codes from your keys that you have and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more involved and may cost you as much as $500 from the dealer.
It is recommended to find locksmiths who work with Saabs. They can make you a key for a lower cost than the dealer. They can also provide other services, such as key replacement and duplication so that you can have an extra key in the event that yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars made after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built into the key to start and recognize the car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they have chips. However, there are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value in them) don't require programming and are relatively inexpensive to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and Saab vehicles will require a dealer to duplicate their keys. This is because these manufacturers do not permit their dealers to join NASTF, which is the organization that produces the tools other locksmiths in the automotive industry use to create replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of Replacement Remote
It is essential to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. This way, you will have one in the event that your original key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote could be very costly. If you have an insurance policy that includes key add-on insurance, it can reduce the cost.
The majority of car keys made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. Typically, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by the computer specifically designed for that purpose. This means that if you need an additional key for your car, you will need to go to the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not cost the same amount as a locksmith.
Saab 9-3s are stunning cars and a large number of remain in use in the present. The ignition key is probably the biggest problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and is easy to lose it or become stuck. In fact, many people find themselves without a functioning key after just a few years of owning a car.
It is, however, possible to find an additional key to your SAAB and it is done quite quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's an easy task you can perform yourself, and you don't require any tools. You will need to be careful, though as if you press it too much, you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.
You'll need to locate a store where you can purchase an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by, but once you know where to look then you should be able to find one fairly easily. Once saab car keys The Key Lab have found a replacement key case, you will need to have it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
It's costly to get a new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It's cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key that is working it is recommended to replace it as quickly as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it and this could lead to many frustrations and cost.