How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of special steps to install a second ignition key. This requires the use of a handheld computer, known as Tech-2 which is used by the dealer. Then a new key and transponder are required to be purchased and then programmed to the car.
Rotate your keys to stop one from wearing out quicker than the other. This will also help to keep your keys in top condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs for keys are not like the old Saab keys. They're equipped with electronic devices that make it difficult to duplicate. This has made car theft considerably more difficult than it was twenty years ago. It has also made it more costly to replace keys that were lost.
Every owner of a Saab 9-3 must have at a minimum two functioning keys. If one is lost, it costs a lot to purchase a new one for the vehicle because it requires replacing the CIM module, and then reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 to do this.
There are some ways around these costly. Some parts dealers can look up the code from a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns off the ignition) and cut a brand new key blade out of metal for only a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must, however, be the same as the original one in order to function in your vehicle.
You can also change the case yourself by following these steps. You will need to have an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver, break away the plastic and take out the emergency key. Once you have the case opened, take out the electronics and place them into 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 Cyclone Cyd will show you how to replace the remote key fob battery in just four steps. This tutorial should work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the procedure could differ slightly.
The first step is to find the button that opens the backup key within the fob. This button is usually located on the back of the fob close to the Saab Logo. Then you will need an screwdriver with a flat head to insert into the tiny hole in this button. This should be enough to open the fob case so that you can change the battery.
Once the new CR1632 battery is in place it is possible to reassemble the remote key fob, and then program it to your car. The entire process shouldn't take more than one hour. It's a simple procedure that doesn't require special tools.
The process is more complicated if you lose your key, but it is possible. The dealer must first read the VIN of the vehicle before requesting an additional TWICE module and key blade that has the correct unique code. Then, they'll be required to cut the replacement key and then program it with a brand new tool for programming called MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob contains batteries that are used to lock and unlock your car. Batteries are able to last for a short time and eventually will die. This is a problem that happens with all cars, and the good news is that you can change the batteries on most key fobs without replacing the entire case. Amazon sells fobs for replacement that already have all the electronic components in place. saab key programmer G28CarKeys can simply pop the case open and replace the batteries. It is important to keep in mind that you will need to remove the emergency key first, and you can do this by inserting an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head into the slot located in the middle of the case. The case will split once you rotate the screwdriver around it.
If you're ready to replace your keys, make sure you have a spare in your possession. This will save you a lot of money. If you have a spare, you can have the dealer cut an additional key and program it to your car, which is cheaper than replacing the whole key fob.
It is possible to add a second key to your vehicle in the event that you don't have one, however it requires some research and work. The cost of adding a second key is around a hundred dollars and it also requires the programming of the car's computer. Professionals can do this however, it's a costly option.
Replacement Ignition
The modern SAAB 9-3 features an advanced alarm system built around a key code. This means that should you lose only one working key, adding another one could be very expensive since the car has to have a unique computer module installed, and it must also be specifically programmed to accept an extra key. Most locksmiths cannot do this, and even dealers can charge several hundred dollars to program the new key!
If you've lost your only working key, a dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to make the replacement, and will charge top dollar for it. We can reprogram the existing EEPROM inside your car's computer so that it's ready for an additional key. This will save you more than 50% on the price you'd spend at the dealer.
If you've been a faithful owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you probably have noticed that the ignition switch isn't really all that durable. They can be extremely sticky, and the buttons can fall off from time to time It is recommended that you consider buying a new one if the one you have isn't working properly. It's not so difficult as it may seem to replace the ignition key. With the appropriate tools, it could be accomplished quickly.