One Saab Ignition Key Replacement Success Story You ll Never Imagine

Saab Key Programming

saab 9-3 key not accepted contact service cars produced since 1994 use an immobilizer that relies on a set of keys. In order to add a second key, it requires the purchase of a new transponder as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer with a specialized Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. This is why you should always keep a spare key in your possession.

Transponder key

The transponder is a key equipped with an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to determine whether it matches the one on the key. If both signals match the car will be able to unlock itself and begin. This is a great way to safeguard your car from theft.

Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they aren't as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal component of a traditional key can be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip is equipped with an individual code that is encoded into the car's system to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it will only do this if the fob has a non-modified chip that has been programmed to match. In the absence of that, the car will reject the key and not start.

It is vital to have an extra Saab key. This is especially important if you live in a rural area where there are many car thieves. You can get a brand new key for your Saab by going to the dealership, without having to pay their pricey cost. You can get the replacement key on the spot at a fraction of the cost you would pay at a dealership.

Wired key

Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you have only one, you should purchase an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if you lose it the car will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially for used vehicles.

The next step is to connect the wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult aspect of the project and will require a lot of soldering. It's not a common way to go about it, but you need to think about how to route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.

Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to the key switches. To do this, put a diode across each pin of the key switch and then solder it. This will protect the pins from current, preventing them from being shortened. A diode lets current only flow in one direction. It comes with a visual indicator that is black, that shows which way current will flow.

Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- may help customers in the shop, or even DIY customers in certain instances replace keys in the program and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the procedure, making it simpler than replacing the computer in the vehicle.

Jump-starting the battery

A majority of people keep a set in their trunks to start a car in case of emergency, but it might not be a good option for vehicles with newer technology. These vehicles have many computers and digital devices that communicate with each other. A voltage surge while the battery is connected to another battery could fry the components and render your car undriveable.

Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the damaged car's hood. The engine block would be an ideal choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery because this could trigger a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected, you need to start the car and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will recharge as you drive. It takes a while for it to return to its original state. It's a good idea invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the only working one requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that the lost keys aren't in the process of trying to steal the car.

Replacement case

Saab owners typically only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it's not cheap to purchase a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It's best to have a second key in case of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to buy an extra key as soon as you can. Even even if the key is "new" it won't work.

Most locksmiths aren't able to help if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge you high prices to replace the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can, however, reset and Saab Key Programming re-program your computer's EEPROM to accept an alternative key without replacing the entire system. This could save you lots of money. It's also much less expensive than waiting until you lose your one key.