15 Reasons To Not Ignore Saab Ignition Key Replacement

· 4 min read
15 Reasons To Not Ignore Saab Ignition Key Replacement

Saab Key Programming

Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 come with an immobilizer system based on coded keys. A new transponder is required to allow the inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys available.

Transponder key

The transponder can be described as a key equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is the same as that of the key. If the signals are the same the car will be able to unlock itself and begin. This is an excellent way to protect your car from theft.

Transponder keys are a favored feature in cars, but you should be aware they aren't as secure as classic metal keys. While the metal part of a conventional key can be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has an individual code that is encoded into the car's system to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on.  thekeylab.co.uk  will only recognize the key fob if it is equipped with a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and refuse to start.

It's crucial to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly true if you reside in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. The good thing is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealer and pay the hefty prices that they ask. In most instances, you can get a new key created on-the-spot for less than half the price of what you'd pay at the dealer.

Key for Wired

Saab cars are typically delivered with two keys. If you only own one, it is recommended to get an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car is damaged, it will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive especially if you're buying a used car.


The next step is connecting the wires of columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a good deal of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you must determine how to route and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. This means there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.

After the rows and column are joined then it's time to connect the key switches. To do this, put an inverter over each key switch pin and solder it. This will shield the pins from current, and prevent them from being shorted. A diode only allows the current to flow in a single direction, and has a a black band visual indicator 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 shop customers or even DIY customers in certain instances program replacement keys and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step, making the process easier than replacing the car's computer.

Jump-starting the battery

A lot of people keep an assortment of tools in their trunk to jump-start a vehicle in an emergency, however it might not be the best idea for cars with more modern technology. These vehicles are equipped with numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage while the battery is connected to another could cause damage to these components and leave your car unable to drive.

Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface underneath the vehicle's hood. An engine block is a good option. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It will take a while for it to return to its original state. It is a good idea to buy a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and a special program to convince it that the lost keys aren't attempting to steal the car.

Replacement Case

Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. It's costly to add the key and also requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. It is recommended to have a spare key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the best option is to buy an extra key as soon as you can. Don't purchase a used key even it's "new." Keys that are claimed-new from sellers selling aftermarket keys won't work and are likely to fail at the critical moment.

Most locksmiths can't help you with a single working key, and the dealer will charge top dollar to replace the computer in your car to make a new replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to accept the new key without having to replace the whole system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's also much less expensive than waiting until you lose your sole key.