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20 Resources To Make You More Successful At Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming

Saab cars made since 1994 use an immobilizer that relies on a set of keys. A new transponder is required for the inclusion of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer with a specialized Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The issue is that it can be very costly. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys on hand.

Transponder key

The transponder is a piece of key that has an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to determine if it matches the one on the key. If the signals are in sync the car will then unlock and begin. This is a great way to safeguard your car from theft.

Transponder keys can be a popular addition to automobiles, but they are not as safe as traditional metal keys. The metal component of a traditional key is easily cut or copied, while transponders are protected by an electronic chip which protects it. The chip is equipped with an individual code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.


When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it can only do this if your key fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match. Otherwise, the car will reject the key and refuse to start.

It's important to make sure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is especially true especially if you live in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. The good part is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to an auto dealer and pay the hefty prices that they ask. You can get a replacement key created on the spot at a fraction of what you would spend at dealerships.

Key for Wired

Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only own one, you should purchase an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if it's lost, the car will need an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly particularly for used cars.

The next step is to wire the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a great amount of soldering. It's not a standard way to go about it, but you must plan how to route and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you can connect for this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 column.

After the columns and rows are soldered together, it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will shield the pins of the key switch from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode permits current to only flow in one direction. It comes with a visual indicator, a black band, that shows the direction in which the current will flow.

Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- may aid shop customers or DIY customers in some cases replace keys in the program and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.

Jumpstarting the battery

A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks in case of emergency however, jumping a battery in newer cars might not be the best choice. saab replacement keys uk have many digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A voltage surge when the battery is connected to another could cause damage to the components making your car inoperable.

Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before connecting the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of your disabled car. The engine block is a good choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in sparks, which would ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.

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 your Saab 9-3 is recharged when you drive, and it can take a while to get the battery back to normal. It's a good idea to buy a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't trying to steal the car.

Replacement case

Saab owners often only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it's expensive to add a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It's recommended to have a backup key in the event of theft or other disaster, and the best way is to purchase an extra key as quickly as you can. Even it's "new", it will not function.

The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help with a single working key and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle for a replacement. However, we can reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM to accept a new key without replacing the whole system. This could save you lots of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.

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