20 Fun Infographics About Saab Ignition Key Replacement Saab Key Programming

Saab cars built since about 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism built on coded keys. A new transponder is required for inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.

It can be costly. This is why it is important to always have a spare key available.

Transponder key

The transponder is a key with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to see whether it matches the one that is in the key. If the signals match it will open itself and begin. This is a great method to protect your car from theft.

Transponder keys may be an increasingly popular feature for automobiles, but they are not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key may be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip has a unique code that is programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. If not, the car will reject the key and won't start.

It is vital to have a spare Saab key. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area that is home to many car thieves. You can purchase a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership, without having to pay their pricey prices. You can get the replacement key on the spot at a fraction of the price you'd spend at a dealership.

Key for Wired

Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only own one, you should purchase an additional key as fast as you can. This is because, if it's lost the car will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive, especially if you are buying a used car.

The next step is to connect the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and requires a significant deal of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, however, you should think about how to route and solder each column and row. There are saab 93 key programming as pins to connect to this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 column.

After the columns and rows are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the pins from current, and prevent them from being shorted. A diode only allows current to flow in one direction, and has a a black band visual indicator that indicates the direction in which current will flow.

A few of the tools that are available at auto parts stores- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can aid shop customers or DIY customers in some cases programme replacement keys and recover lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the car's computer.

Jump starting the battery

The majority of people have a set of jumper cables in their trunk to use in an emergency however, jumping a battery on newer cars might not be the best choice. These vehicles are equipped with numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when batteries are connected to another battery could damage the components and render your vehicle unusable.


Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for around two minutes before connecting the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface under the disabled car's hood--the engine block is a good option. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, since it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

After the cables have been connected, begin the car and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. Remember that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged during your drive, which means it will take a while to get the battery back down again. You should purchase another key fob when you can. Replacing the one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.

Replacement case

Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, key, it will cost them. The reason for this is that it's expensive to buy a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. It's recommended to have a spare key in case of theft or other disaster, and the best way is to purchase a second key as early as you can. Even when the key is "new" it will not function.

Most locksmiths can't help you in the event that you only have one working key and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the entire system. This can help you save a significant amount of money. It's also much less expensive than waiting until you lose your sole key.