How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost

Copying your spare key before you lose the last one can save you big cash. It's generally 2X-10X more expensive to make a new key when you're only left with one.

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

Cost of replacement key for saab 93 Key

The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a fantastic car, but its ignition key can be prone to wear down. The case may become sticky and the buttons are known to fall out, and this can be a major inconvenience when you're driving around. This is the reason it's best to replace the key fob as soon as you notice any problems. This can save you a significant amount of money over the long term and is more beneficial than procrastinating.

Replacing the SAAB key fob isn't too difficult, and you can do it yourself for less than $100. You'll have to purchase the replacement key fob that can be used with your vehicle and a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you've done this, you can easily fit the new battery into place and then reconnect the key fob to your vehicle.

SAAB keys with remote start systems require particular attention because they include transponders that need to be programmed to match your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool known as the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. This tool is able to analyze the codes from your existing keys and use the information to program a new key. If you don't have a spare key available, this process is a bit more involved and can cost as much as $500 from the dealer.

It is recommended to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. These professionals can make you key at a cheaper cost than a dealer. They can also provide other services, like key duplication and replacement which means you'll have a backup car key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.

The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip embedded into the key to recognize and start your vehicle. This is the reason why these types of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than keys that do not have a chip. There are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical, with a resistor in them) do not require programming and can be duplicated cheaply. 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 don't allow their dealers to be part of NASTF which is the organization that makes the tools that other locksmiths in the automotive industry use to make keys that can be used to replace their customers' keys.

Cost of a New Remote

It is crucial to have an extra remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This way you can have one in the event that your key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it will reduce the cost of replacing the remote.

The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. They are typically stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer that is designed specifically for this purpose. If you require an additional key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good thing is that the dealer isn't going to cost as much as a locksmith.

Saab 9-3s are beautiful cars and a lot of are still in use today. The ignition key is probably the biggest issue for these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or become stuck. Many have been lacking a key that worked within several years of purchasing their vehicle.

Fortunately, it is possible to obtain an additional key for your SAAB and this can be done quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the saab key replacement cost 9-3. This is an easy process that you can do yourself, and it doesn't require any tools at all. You should be cautious however, because if overdo it you could damage the electronics.

Then, you'll have to locate a shop that offers an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to find however once you know where to look then you are likely to find one quickly. Once you've found a new key case, you will need to cut it and programmed to your vehicle.

It's expensive to purchase a brand new SAAB key however, the expense is worth it. It is much cheaper and quicker than having replace the entire vehicle. If you have only one key working, it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You don't know when it could be lost, and this could cause a lot of frustration and cost.