How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

Getting your spare key copied before you lose the previous one can save you huge money. When you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X as costly to make an original one.

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

Cost of Replacement Key

The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however its ignition key is susceptible to wear down. The case can become sticky and buttons can be pushed out. This can be a discomfort when driving. This is why it's a good idea to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This will save you money in the end, and is more effective than waiting.

You can replace a SAAB's keys fob yourself for less than $100. You'll need to purchase the replacement key fob that will work with your car and also an additional battery. To replace the battery, you'll need to carefully take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you have removed the electronics, you can simply replace the battery and synchronize your key fob to your car.

SAAB keys with remote start feature require special attention since they feature an embedded transponder chip that must be programmed to your specific vehicle. You'll require the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. The tool can read the code on the keys you have and then use that information to program your replacement 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.

A good idea is to try and find locksmiths who specialize in Saabs. These professionals will be able to design and make a new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They can also provide other services, like key replacement and duplication so that you can have a backup key in case the original one is damaged or lost.

Most European cars built after 2000 have immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip built inside the key to identify and start your vehicle. This is why these types of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than those without a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for example (which are mechanical with a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches, and saab key replacement near me vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is due to the fact that these manufacturers do not permit their dealers to be part of NASTF which is the organization that produces the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector use to make replacement keys for their customers.

Cost of a Replacement Remote

It is important to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in case your original key gets lost or breaks. The cost of a replacement remote can be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage, it can reduce the cost.

Most car keys for cars produced after 2000 were programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually locked in a small EEPROM that can only be read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. If you need to replace the key in your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge you less than locksmiths.

Saab 9-3s are stunning cars and a large number of them are still in use today. However, there's one huge issue with these cars and that is their ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or become stuck. In fact, many people have a non-functioning key after only a few years of owning their car.

Luckily, it's possible to find an additional key to your SAAB and it is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is a straightforward process that you can do yourself and does not require any tools at all. You will need to be careful, however as if you press it too much, you could damage the electronics inside of it.

In the meantime, you'll need to locate a place that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They can be difficult to come by, but once you know where to look then you will be able to locate one fairly easily. Once you have found an appropriate case replacement you'll have to get it programmed and cut to fit your car.

The process of obtaining a new key for your SAAB isn't cheap however it's worth it in the long run. It's much less expensive and quicker than having to replace the entire vehicle. If you're stuck with one working key, it's recommended to replace it as soon as possible. You never know when the key will be lost, and this could result in a lot of frustration and expense.