How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners must follow a set of special steps to install an additional ignition key. This requires an electronic handheld computer, referred to as Tech-2 which is used by the dealer. Then a new car key and transponder have to be purchased and then programmed to the car.
Rotate your keys to prevent one from wearing out faster than the other. This will help keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
Contrary to the classic Saab keys of old keys, the latest key fobs contain electronics which makes it hard to create a duplicate. This has made car theft much more difficult than twenty years ago. However, it has also made the replacement of lost keys a comparatively expensive endeavor.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys that work. If one of them is lost, it costs a lot to replace it in the car since it requires replacing the CIM module and reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100-$200 for this.
There are several ways to get around the high price. saab 9-3 key fob replacement providers will use the code of the spare key to cut a new metal blade for less than that of a dealer. The key, however, must be identical to the original to work correctly in your car.
You can also change the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need a flathead and a lot of patience. Using the screwdriver, slowly pull the plastic apart and then separate the emergency key from the case. When the case is opened take out all electronic components and place them into your new case. Make sure you put the correct badge and key back into the case, as well.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is a low-cost component that can be replaced easily and quickly. This YouTube DIY video user Cyclone Cyd explains how to replace the battery in the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial can be used with any modern Saab key fob. However, the procedure might differ slightly.
The first step is to find the button that opens the backup key in the fob. This button is usually on the back of your fob, just below the Saab Logo. Next, use a flathead screwdriver into the tiny hole in this button. This should be enough to allow you to open the fob case so that you can change the battery.
After you have installed the new batteries CR1632, it is possible to rebuild your remote key fob. You can then program it into your car. The entire process should not take more than an hour. It's a very easy procedure that doesn't require any special equipment.
If you lose a key, the process is a bit more involved but it is still able to be completed. The dealer will need to find the VIN number of the car and then purchase a replacement key blade and a TWICE module with the exact unique code. Then, they'll have to cut the new key and then program it with an innovative software tool called MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob has batteries that are used to lock and unlock your vehicle. The batteries are able to last for and eventually go out of service. This is a problem that occurs for all vehicles. The good news is that you can replace the battery in most key fobs, and not have to replace the entire case. You can purchase replacement fobs on Amazon that come with all the electronic components already installed, so you can just pop open the case and replace the batteries that were in the case. You will need to remove the emergency key before you can replace the batteries. To do this, you need to insert the screwdriver of a small flat head into the slot that is in the middle. The case will split as you turn the screwdriver around it.
When you're ready to replace the keys ensure that you have a spare, as this will reduce your total cost by a significant amount. If you have an additional key, you can request the dealer to cut it and program it for your vehicle. This is much cheaper than buying a new key fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add a second key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. It will cost you a few hundred dollars to purchase an additional car key. The computer in the car also needs to be programmed. This can be accomplished by a professional, but it's a costly option for most owners.
Replacement Ignition
The new SAAB 9-3 is an advanced alarm system built on a keycode. This means that when you lose your sole working key, adding another one could be very expensive because the car needs to have a special computer module added and it must also be specifically programmed to accept an extra key. Most locksmiths can't do this, and even dealers will charge hundred dollars to program the new key!
If you've lost only one working key, a dealer will repair your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to make an exchange, and they will charge you the highest price for it. We can reprogram the current EEPROM on your car's computer so that it's ready for an extra key. This will save you more than 50% off the cost you would have to pay an auto dealer.
If you've been a long-time owner of a 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you likely know that the ignition key isn't the most robust. If your ignition key is not working properly, you should look into replacing it. They can become extremely sticky and the buttons have been known to fall off. Luckily, replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it sounds, and it can be done quickly with the right tools.