How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a distinct set of steps to take to add an additional key. It requires dealer service with an electronic handheld computer called Tech-2. Then a new key as well as transponder need to be bought and programmed to the car.
Change your keys regularly to prevent one from wearing out quicker than the other. This will help to keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
Unlike the classic Saab keys of the past keys, the new key fobs have electronics inside which makes it difficult to create a duplicate. This has made theft of cars considerably more difficult than it was years ago. It has also made it more expensive to replace keys lost.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys that work. If one gets lost, it costs a lot of money to purchase a new one for the car because it involves replacing the CIM module and programming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 for this.
There are ways to reduce these expensive. Some parts providers will look up the code on an extra key (usually the same one that opens the doors and switches the ignition) and cut a brand new key blade out of metal for a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must be the exact identical to the original one for it to function in your vehicle.
You can also replace the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need a flathead and patience. Using the screwdriver, slowly tear the plastic away and separate the emergency keys from the case. Once the case is open, remove all electronics and put them in the new case. Insert the correct key and badge inside the case.
Replacement Battery
The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is a low-cost part that can be easily and quickly replaced. This DIY video from YouTube user Cyclone Cyd explains how to replace the battery of the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial will work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process could differ slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that releases the backup key within the fob. G28CarKeys is usually located on the back of your fob, close to the Saab Logo. Then use an screwdriver with a flat head to insert into the small hole of this button. This should be enough to let the fob case open so that you can replace the battery.
Once you have installed the new battery CR1632, you are able to restore your remote key fob. Then, you can program it into your car. The entire process should not take more than one hour. It is a very simple process that does not require any special tools.
If you lose a key, the process is a bit more involved but it is still able to be completed. The dealer has to first verify the VIN of the vehicle and then order a replacement TWICE module and key blade that has the correct unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI an innovative software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob contains batteries that are used to lock and unlock your car. They have a limited life span and will eventually die. This is a problem that happens to all cars and the good news is that you can replace the batteries in many key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can buy replacement fobs on Amazon that have all the electronics already installed, which means you can simply open the case and replace those batteries that are old. You will need to remove the emergency key before you replace the batteries. To do this, you need to insert a small screwdriver that is flat into the slot that is in the middle. The screwdriver should be moved around the case until it is split open, making it easier to take it out.
If you're ready to change your keys, be sure to have a spare on hand. This will save you a lot of money. If you have an additional key, you can ask the dealer to cut it in half and program it to your car. This is much less expensive than purchasing a new key fob.
It is possible to add a second key to your vehicle in the event that you don't have one, but it takes a great deal of research and effort. The cost of adding a second key is several hundred dollars and it also requires the programming of the car's computer. Professionals can accomplish this, but it's an expensive option.
Replacement Ignition
Unlike the earlier Saab automobiles, the current SAAB 9-3 models use an extremely sophisticated alarm system that is built around a coded key. This means that in the event that you lose your only functioning key, getting another one can be very costly since the car needs to have a specific computer module added and it also must be specially programmed to accept an extra key. Even dealers can charge hundreds of dollars to program the new key when they are not able to complete the task.
Dealers will charge you a premium to replace your car's computer (also known as the CIM or SAAB twice) in the event that you lose the only working key. We can reprogram the existing EEPROM inside your car's computer to be ready to accept an additional key. This will save you more than 50% of what you would spend at an auto dealer.
If you've owned a SAAB 9-3 an extended period of time you're aware that the ignition keys aren't very durable. If the ignition key you have isn't working correctly, you should think about replacing it. They can become sticky and the buttons have been known to fall off. It's not as difficult as it appears to replace the ignition key. With the right tools, it is able to be accomplished quickly.