How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement Cost
You can save a significant amount of money by getting your spare key before you lose your previous one. If you only have one key, it's generally 2X-10X more expensive to create an entirely new one.
Switching saab 9-3 key www.thekeylab.co.uk in the SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy and inexpensive to do by yourself. Here's how.
Cost of a Key Replacement
The 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car but the ignition key can be prone to wearing down. The case can get sticky and the buttons can be pushed out, which can be a huge hassle when driving around. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as soon you spot any issues. This will save you money in the end and is better than waiting.
Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. You will need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that is compatible with your car, as well as an entirely new battery. It is necessary to open the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob, and then carefully take out the electronic components, giving you an opportunity to replace the battery. Once you've done this, you can easily fit the new battery into place and then reconnect the key fob to your vehicle.
SAAB keys that have the remote start system require particular care because they contain a transponder chip in them which needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can detect the code on your existing keys and then use that information to program your new key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more complex and can cost you up to $500 from the dealer.
A good tip is to find a locksmith who works on Saabs. They can provide you with keys at a lower cost than the dealer. They can also perform other services, including key replacement and duplication, to ensure that you have an additional key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.
The majority of European cars manufactured after 2000 are equipped with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built inside the key to begin and recognize the car. This is why these types of keys are usually more expensive to duplicate than those that do not have the chip. There are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value in them) don't require programming and are cheap to duplicate. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches manufactured after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. This is because these brands do not permit their dealers to join NASTF, which is the group that creates the tools other automotive locksmiths use to create replacement keys for their customers.
Cost of a Replacement Remote
It is crucial to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This way, you will have one in the event that your key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote could be very expensive and if you have an insurance policy that offers key add-on coverage then this could help lower the cost.
The majority of car keys that were made after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or locksmith. These keys are usually stored in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer that was designed specifically for this purpose. If you require an alternative key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will charge you less than locksmiths.
The Saab 9-3s are beautiful vehicles and many of are still in use in the present. However, there's a big problem with these cars and it's the ignition key. The key is small and poorly designed, and can easily fall out or become stuck. Many people have found themselves without a functioning keys within a few years after purchasing their vehicle.
Luckily, you can find an additional key to your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. It's a simple job you can do yourself, and you don't need any tools. You should be cautious though, as if you overdo it, you could damage its electronic components.
The next step is to find a shop where you can get an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. They aren't always easy to come by however if you know where to look then you should be able to find one easily. Once you've found a replacement key case, you will require it to be cut and programmed to your vehicle.
The process of getting a new key for your SAAB isn't cheap however, it's worth it in the long run. It's a lot cheaper than replacing your entire vehicle, and it can save you a significant amount of time. If you're left with one working key then it's ideal to replace it as soon as possible. You never know when it will be lost, and that can result in a lot of frustration and cost.