How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of special steps to install an additional ignition key. This requires the use of a handheld computer, known as Tech-2 that is operated by the dealer. A new key and transponder are required to be purchased and then programmed into the car.
Change your keys regularly to prevent one from wearing out faster than another. This will help keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs aren't like the old Saab keys. They have electronics which make it hard to copy. This has made car theft much more difficult than twenty years ago. However, it has made replacing lost keys a much more expensive task.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two working keys. If one is lost, it costs a fortune to purchase a new one for the car since it requires replacing the CIM module, and then reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers typically charge between $100 and $200 for this.
There are a few ways to avoid these costly. Some parts suppliers can look up the code from an old key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns off the ignition) and cut a brand new metal key blade at less than the dealer's cost. The key must be the exact same as the original to allow it to function in your vehicle.
You can also change the case yourself by following these steps. You'll need a flathead screwdriver and some patience. With the screwdriver slowly pry the plastic apart and separate the emergency keys from the case. Once you have the case opened, take out the electronics and put them in the new case. Put the correct key and badge into the case.
Replacement Battery
The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is an inexpensive component that can be easily and quickly replaced. This DIY video from YouTube user Cyclone Cyd explains how to replace the battery for the remote key fob in only four steps. This tutorial can be used for any modern saab key fob, though the process may vary slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that will release the backup key on the fob. This button is usually located next to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver in the small hole in this button. saab keys will allow you to open the fob's case so that you can replace the battery.
After the new battery CR1632 is installed it is possible to reassemble the remote key fob. You can then program it to your car. The whole process should take more than an hour at most. It is a very simple procedure that doesn't require any special tools.
If you lose a key the process is a bit more involved but it is still able to be accomplished. The dealer needs to first determine the VIN of the vehicle and order the replacement TWICE module as well as key blade that has the correct unique code. After that, they'll be required to cut the replacement key and then program it using the latest software tool known as MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob comes with batteries that are used to lock and unlock your vehicle. Batteries have a limited lifespan and eventually die. It is a common problem that affects all cars. The good news is that you can replace the battery on most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can buy replacement fobs from 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. It is necessary to remove the emergency key before you can replace the batteries. To do this, insert the screwdriver of a small flat head into the slot in the middle. Use the screwdriver to move around the case until it is split open, making it easy to take it out.
If you're looking to replace your keys, be sure to have a spare on hand. This will save you a lot of money. If you have a spare, you can request that the dealer cut a new key and program it to the car, which is much cheaper than replacing the whole key fob.
If you don't have a spare one, you can add an additional key to your car, however this requires a lot research and effort. Adding a second key costs around a hundred dollars and it also requires programming of the car's computer. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it's an expensive option for most owners.
Replacement Ignition
The latest SAAB 9-3 is an advanced alarm system that is based on a key code. This means that when you lose your sole working key, adding an additional one could be extremely expensive as the car has to have a unique computer module fitted and also must be specially programmed to accept an extra key. Dealers can even charge hundreds of dollars to program an additional key if they are unable to complete the task.
If you've lost your only working key the dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to create an exchange, and they will charge top dollar for it. Instead, we can reprogram the EEPROM of your current car computer to allow it to be programmed for a replacement key, saving you over 50% of what you'll spend at a dealer.
If you have owned a car like the SAAB 9-3 for an extended period of time and you're aware of the ignition keys are not very durable. If the ignition key you have isn't working properly, you should think about replacing it. They can become extremely sticky and the buttons can fall off. Luckily, replacing the ignition key isn't as difficult as it seems, and it can be done fairly quickly with the right tools.