How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a distinct set of steps to take to add another key. It requires dealer service with a handheld computer dubbed Tech-2. Then the transponder must be replaced and a key must be purchased.
Rotate your keys to stop one from wearing out quicker than another. This will also help keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs aren't like the old Saab keys. They're equipped with electronic devices which make it hard to duplicate. That has made car theft a lot more complicated than it was 20 years ago. However, it also has made the replacement of lost keys a much more expensive undertaking.
Every owner of a Saab 9-3 needs to have at least two working keys. If one is lost it costs a lot to get another one for the vehicle because it requires replacing the CIM module, and then reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100-$200 to complete this.
There are ways to reduce the high price. Some parts suppliers will use the code of an extra key to cut a brand new metal blade at a fraction the cost of the dealer. The key must be the exact same as the original for it to function in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need a flathead and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver, pry off the plastic and then remove the emergency key. After the case is open take out all electronic components and put them back in the new case. Make sure you put the correct key and badge 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 video from Cyclone Cyd demonstrates how to replace the remote fob battery with just four easy steps. This tutorial is compatible with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process could differ slightly.
The button is normally located just below the Saab logo on the back of the fob. This button is usually on the back of your fob next to the Saab Logo. Then you will need a flathead screwdriver to insert into the tiny hole in this button. This will allow you to open the case of the fob so that you can replace the battery.
After you have installed the CR1632 batteries, you can rebuild your remote key fob. www.thekeylab.co.uk can then program it into your car. The entire process should not be more than an hour. It's a simple procedure that doesn't require any special equipment.
If you lose your key, the process is somewhat more complex, but it can still be completed. The dealer will first need to read the VIN of the vehicle and order an alternative TWICE module, as well as a key blade with the correct unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI which is a new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is a device that locks and unlocks your car, it's got an internal battery. Batteries have a finite lifespan and eventually will die. This is a typical issue that happens to all cars, and the good news is that you can replace the batteries in most key fobs without replacing the entire case. Amazon sells replacement fobs with all the electronic components installed. You can simply remove the case and replace the batteries. It's important to note that you'll need remove the emergency key first, and you can do this by inserting the screwdriver of a small flathead into the slot located in the middle of the case. The case will split as you turn the screwdriver around it.
When you are ready to replace your keys, make sure you have a spare, as this will reduce your total cost by a substantial amount. 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 cheaper than purchasing a brand new key fob.
It is possible to add a second key to your vehicle if you don't already have one, but it requires a great deal of research and work. It will cost you a few hundred dollars to get 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 modern SAAB 9-3 is an advanced alarm system based on a key code. This means that when you lose your sole functioning key, getting another one can be very expensive because the car needs to have a computer module added and it also must be specially programmed to accept an additional key. Most locksmiths cannot do this and even a dealer will charge several hundred dollars just to program the new key!
If you've lost your only working key, a dealer will replace the computer in your car (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) to make an exchange, and they will charge you a premium price for it. Instead we can reprogram the EEPROM of your current car computer to allow it to be programmed to accept a second key, which will save you more than 50% of what you'd spend at a dealer.
If you've been an owner of an 03-11 SAAB 9-3, then you probably realize that the ignition key isn't all that robust. They can become incredibly sticky and the buttons are known to fall off of them at times and you should think about replacing your ignition key if it isn't working as it should. It's good to know that replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it seems, and it can be done in a short time using the right tools.