5 Killer Quora Answers On Saab Ignition Key Replacement Saab Key Programming

Saab cars built since 1994 feature an immobilizer that relies on a set of keys. A new transponder is required for the addition of an extra key, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The issue is that this could be quite costly. This is why you should always have a spare key available.

Transponder key

The transponder key comes with an electronic chip that sends a signal to car when it is put into the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are in sync it will unlock and begin. This is a great method to stop car theft and keep your car safe from thieves.

saab 93 key fob can be a popular addition to automobiles, but they are not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a conventional key can be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip is equipped with a unique code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to be turned on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. The car will not start if the key is not programmed to match.

It is essential to have a spare Saab key. This is especially true if you reside in a rural area with many car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying their expensive prices. In the majority of instances, you can get an original key made on the spot at a fraction of the cost you would pay at a dealer.

Key for Wired

Saab cars typically come with two keys when they're new. If you own only one, you need to purchase an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost the car will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly, especially for used cars.

The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and requires a significant amount of soldering. There's no standard way to accomplish this, but it is crucial to plan how you will route and solder the columns and rows. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.

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 protect the pins from current, and prevent them from getting shorted. A diode lets current only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator with a black band that shows the direction in which the current will flow.

Some of the tools you can find at auto parts storeslike the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can aid shop customers or DIY customers in certain instances replace keys in the program and restore lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into OBD ports and guide the user through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the vehicle's computer.

Jump starting the battery

Most people keep the set in their trunk to jump-start their car in an emergency, but it might not be a good option for vehicles with newer technology. They have numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when a battery is hooked up to another one could damage these components, rendering your vehicle undriveable.


Connect the cables to the vehicle that is operating. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent option. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, as it could spark an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected the disabled vehicle and let it run for about five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. Remember that the battery on your Saab 9-3 is charged when you drive, so it will take a while to get the battery back to its original level. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the only working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince the system that your lost keys aren't trying to steal the car.

Replacement Case

Saab owners often only have one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. It's expensive to add an additional key and it requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft or other catastrophe it is advisable to have an extra key. But don't buy a used key even when it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new purchased from third-party sellers won't perform and are almost certain to fail at the crucial moment.

Most locksmiths cannot help you if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge for the cost of replacing the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order to get it ready to accept a new key without the need to replace the entire system. This can help you save money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose your one key.