How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have to follow a series of special steps to install an additional ignition key. This requires the use of a handheld computer, known as Tech-2 that is operated by the dealer. Then the transponder must be replaced and a key have to be purchased.
It is a good idea to rotate your keys so that one does not get damaged faster than the other. This will also keep your keys in pristine condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs for keys are not like the old Saab keys. They're equipped with electronic devices which make it hard to copy. This has made stealing car keys much more difficult than it was twenty years ago. But, it has also made replacing lost keys an incredibly expensive endeavor.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys working. If one gets lost, it costs a lot to purchase a new one for the car because it involves replacing the CIM module and programming the locking cylinders. Dealers typically charge between $100 and $200 to complete this.
There are some ways around these high cost. Some parts retailers will search for the code from a spare key (usually the same one that opens the doors and turns on the ignition) and cut a new key blade from metal for only a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must, however, be the same as the original one to function properly in your car.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver, you can pry off the plastic and then remove the emergency key. Once the case is open, remove the electronics and place them into your new case. Make sure to insert the correct badge and key back into the case as well.
Replacement Battery
The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is a cheap component that can be quickly and easily replaced. This YouTube video by Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the remote fob battery in just four simple steps. This tutorial should work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the procedure might differ slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that will release the backup key on the fob. This button is usually on the back of your fob next to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver in the small hole in this button. This will allow you to open the fob's case to allow you to replace the battery.
After you have installed the batteries CR1632, you can restore the remote key fob. Then, you can program it into your car. The entire process should take no more than an hour or less. It's a simple process that doesn't require any special tools.
The process can be a bit more complicated if you've lost the key, but it's possible. The dealer will need to determine the VIN of the car and then request a replacement key blade and TWICE module with the exact unique code. After that, they will be required to cut the replacement key and then program it with a new software tool called MDI.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is the device that locks and unlocks your car. It has an internal battery. They have a limited life span and will eventually die. It is a common problem with all cars. The good thing is that you can replace the battery in all key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can purchase replacement fobs on Amazon that include all the electronics already installed, so you can just pop open the case and replace the batteries in the original case. It is important to note that you will need to take out the emergency key first. you can do this by putting the small screwdriver flathead into the slot found in the middle of the case. The case will split when you turn the screwdriver around it.
When you're ready to replace the keys, ensure that you have a spare, as this can reduce the total cost by a substantial amount. If you have an additional key, you can ask the dealer to cut it and program it to your vehicle. This is much less expensive than purchasing a new fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add another key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. The Keylab costs around a hundred dollars to purchase a second car key. The computer in the car also needs to be programmed. Professionals can accomplish this but it's not a cheap option.
Replacement Ignition
The new SAAB 9-3 is a more sophisticated alarm system built on a keycode. If you lose only one key, it can be costly to purchase a new one, as the car has to include a computer and also be programmed to accept a brand new key. Most locksmiths cannot do this or even dealers will charge hundreds of dollars just to program the new key!
If you've lost only one working key, a dealer will replace the computer in your car (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make an exchange, and they will charge a premium for it. We can reprogram the current EEPROM inside your car's computer so that it is prepared for a new key. This will save you more than 50% of the price you'd pay an auto dealer.
If you have owned a SAAB 9-3 for an extended period of time you're aware that the ignition keys aren't very durable. They can become extremely sticky and the buttons can fall off every now and then and you should think about replacing your ignition key if it isn't functioning properly. It's good to know that replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it sounds, and it can be done quickly using the right tools.