How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

Making copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you big cash. If you have only one key, it's typically 2X-10X more expensive to create a new one.

Change the battery on the SAAB 9-3 key fob is simple, inexpensive and easy to do it yourself. Here's how.

Cost of Replacement Key

The SAAB 9-3 03-11 is a great vehicle however the ignition key is prone to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons could be pushed out. This can be a pain when driving. It's important to replace your key fob right away when you notice any issues. This can help you save money in the long run as well as being more effective than putting off repairs.

Replacing a Saab 9 3 key replacement key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You'll need to buy a replacement key fob shell that is compatible with your car and also an additional battery. You'll need to remove the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, then carefully remove the electronic components to give you the chance to replace the battery. After you have removed the electronics, you can replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your vehicle.

SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention since they come with transponders that must 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 read the code from your existing keys and use the information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this procedure is more complex and can cost as much as $500 from the dealer.

An excellent tip is to locate a locksmith who is proficient in Saabs. They can create a key for a lower cost than the dealer. They also provide other services like key replacement and duplicates, to ensure that you have another key in case yours gets lost or damaged.

Most European cars manufactured after 2000 have immobilizers that depend on a chip that is built into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. This is the reason these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than those without a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical, with a resistor in them) do not require programming and can be duplicated fairly inexpensively. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an authorized dealer to duplicate their keys. This is because these manufacturers do not allow dealers to participate in NASTF which is the group which makes the tools other locksmiths for automobiles use to make keys that can be used to replace their customers' keys.

Cost of a Replacement Remote

It is vital to have an extra remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. It can be used in the event that your primary key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key add-ons it could reduce the cost of replacing the remote.

The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM that can only be read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. If you need an additional key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The positive side is that the dealership will not charge the same amount as locksmiths.

saab car key replacement 9-3s are stunning cars and a large number of are still in use today. The ignition key is the most significant issue with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or become stuck. In reality, many are left without a functioning key within a couple of years of owning their car.

It is, however, possible to get an additional key for your SAAB and this is a simple process. First, remove the emergency key. This is an easy process that you can do yourself and doesn't require any tools whatsoever. You should be cautious, however in case you force it too hard then you could cause damage to the electronics inside it.

Then, you'll have to find a store that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases easily but if you know where to look, you should not have any problem finding one. Once you've found a replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmable to your car.

The process of getting an entirely new key for your SAAB isn't cheap but it's worth it in the long run. It's less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle and it will save you a lot of time. If you have only one key working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it and this could lead to many frustrations and expense.