saab 9-3 replacement key Key Programming

Saab cars manufactured since 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism built on coded keys. A new transponder is required for addition of an extra key, and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.

It can be costly. It is recommended to always have a spare set of keys at hand.

Transponder key

The transponder is a key that is equipped with an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed in the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is identical to the one that is in the key. If the signals are the same the car will then unlock itself and begin. This is a great method to deter car theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.

Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, however it is important to know that they aren't as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal component of a traditional key could be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has a unique code that is programmed into the car's computers to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. The car won't start if the key is not programmed to match.

It's important to make sure that you have a spare key for your saab fob key replacement. This is especially true especially if you reside in a rural region where there are a lot of car burglars. You can purchase a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying pricey cost. In the majority of cases, you can have a new key created on-the-spot at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealerships.

Key for Wired

Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you have only one, it is recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as possible since if you lose it, your car will require a new CIM unit, and the locking cylinders need to be replaced. This can be costly especially for used vehicles.

The next step is to wire the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a large deal of soldering. It's not a standard way to do it, but you must plan how to route and connect each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect to this keyboard. It has 5 rows and 17 columns.

After the rows and column are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins of the key switch from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode permits current to only flow in one direction. It features a visual indicator that is black, that indicates the direction in which current will flow.

A few of the tools that are available at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can help customers in the shop, or even DIY users in some cases program replacement keys and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the procedure, making it simpler than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.

Jump-starting the battery

The majority of people have a set of jumper cables in their trunk in case of emergency however, jumping a battery on newer vehicles might not be the best option. These vehicles have many electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A voltage surge while the battery is connected to another one could damage these components and leave your vehicle unable to drive.

Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of the damaged vehicle. The engine block is a good alternative. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, since it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected, turn on the vehicle you are not using and let it run for about five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged while you drive. It takes a while for it to recharge again. You should purchase another key fob when you can. Replacing the one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.

Replacement Case

saab key fob owners typically only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. The reason for this is that it's costly to buy a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. In the event of theft or any other disaster it is best to have a spare key. However, don't purchase a secondhand key even when it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new from sellers selling aftermarket keys won't work and are almost guaranteed to fail in the crucial moment.

The dealer will charge the highest dollar for only one working key. However, we can reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept the new key, without replacing the entire system. This could save you a significant amount of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.