Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built from 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on keys that are coded. To add an additional key, you need an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done at the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. It is recommended to always have an extra set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a piece of key with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car is able to check whether the signal matches with the one on the key. If both signals match it will open itself and begin. This is a great method to stop car theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys may be an increasingly popular feature for automobiles, but they are not as safe as traditional metal keys. The metal part of the traditional key can be easily copied and cut, but transponders are protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip has an individual code that is embedded into the car's computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to be turned on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it is equipped with an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. The car won't start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is vital to have a spare Saab key. This is particularly important especially if you live in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. The good news is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to an auto dealership and pay the expensive prices that they demand. You can have a replacement key made on the spot for less than half of what you would pay at the dealership.
Wired key
Saab cars usually come with two keys upon purchase. If you only have one, it's best to acquire an extra key fob as soon as possible since if you lose it, the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders will need to be replaced. This could be expensive especially if purchasing a used vehicle.
The next step is to connect the wires of the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require lots of soldering. There is no standard method to accomplish this, but it's important to plan out the route you'll take and solder the rows and columns. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect to this keyboard. It has 5 rows and 17 column.
After the columns and rows are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins that are used for key switches from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode can only allow the flow of current to be in one direction, and has a an indicator in black that indicates the direction current will flow.
Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can help customers in the shop, or even DIY users in some cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the car's computer.
Jump starting the battery
A lot of people keep an assortment of tools in their trunks to jump start a vehicle in the event of an emergency, however it might not be a good idea for cars with more modern technology. These vehicles are equipped with a number of digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge of voltage when the battery is connected another one could cause damage to the parts making your car inoperable.
Start the vehicle that is working and let it run for about two minutes before connecting the cables to the non-working one. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the battery that's good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of your disabled car. The engine block is a good option. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could trigger sparks, which would ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, you need to start the vehicle and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged while you drive. It will take a while for it to recharge again. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys are not trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their vehicle and if they lose that they'll be charged. It's costly to add keys and will require replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. It is recommended to have a spare key in case of theft or other disaster the best solution is to purchase an extra key as soon as you can. Even it's "new", it won't work.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. However, saab key fob replacement can reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM to accept a new key without replacing the whole system. This could save you a significant amount of money. It's much cheaper than waiting until you lose your only key.