The Ultimate Guide To Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on codes for keys. The addition of a key requires an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done at the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this can be very costly. This is why it is important to always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key that has an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is put into the ignition. The car then checks to see if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals are the same the car will then unlock itself and begin. This is a fantastic way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are an increasingly popular feature in automobiles, however you must be aware that they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. The metal component of a traditional key can be easily cut or copied, while transponders are protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip contains a unique code which is programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to be turned on. However, it is only able to do so if the key fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match. The car will not start in the event that the key is not programmed to match.
It is important to have a spare Saab key. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area that is home to many car thieves. The good news is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealership and pay the high prices they ask. In most instances, you can get a brand new key made right on the spot for less than half the cost you'd pay at the dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you only have one, it is recommended to get an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if the key is lost, the car will need an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly, especially for used cars.
The next step is to wire the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult aspect of the project and it will require a lot of soldering. It's not a standard way to go about it, but you must think about how to connect and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. saab 9-3 key replacement has 5 rows and 17 columns.
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 from current, thus preventing them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator of a black line that shows the direction in which the current will flow.
Sanabria states that a number of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO or IM508 can assist shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunks for emergencies, but jumping a battery in newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with computers and digital devices which communicate with one another. A voltage surge while the battery is connected to another battery could fry the components and render your vehicle undriveable.
Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before you connect the cables to the non-working one. 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 to a clean and unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of the damaged car. The engine block is an excellent alternative. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks, which would ignite the gasoline that is in the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, start the car and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then disconnect the cables in reverse. Be aware that the battery of your Saab 9-3 is recharged during your drive, which means it will take a while for the battery to go back to normal. You should consider purchasing an additional key fob as soon as you can. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement case
Saab owners usually only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's costly to replace a key, and that involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It's best to have a spare key in case of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to purchase a second key as soon as you are able to. Even it's "new", it will not work.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollars if you only have one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM to be able to accept a replacement key without replacing the entire system. That can save you lots of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.