Notes

10 Things Everybody Hates About Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming

Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 come with an immobilizer system built on coded keys. The addition of a key requires a new transponder and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The issue is that it can be very expensive. It is recommended to always have a spare set of keys at hand.

Transponder key

The transponder is a piece of key equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car is able to check if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals match the car will then open and start. This is a fantastic way to guard your car against theft.

Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, but it is important to know that they're not as secure as classic keys made of metal. While the metal part of a traditional key can be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip is a unique code that is inserted into a car's computer order to identify it.


The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on. However, saab car key 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 original. Otherwise, the car would refuse to accept the key and will not start.

It is vital to have a spare Saab key. This is especially true if you live in a rural region where there are numerous car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by going to the dealership and not paying their expensive costs. In the majority of cases, you can have a brand new key made right on the spot for less than half the cost you'd pay at the dealer.

Wired key

Saab cars usually come with two keys upon purchase. If you own only one, you should purchase an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if you lose it the car will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly particularly for used cars.

The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and requires a significant amount of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you must consider how you will route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns. This means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need 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 being shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in one direction. It features a visual indicator of a black line that shows which way current will flow.

Sanabria says that a few of the tools offered in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 are able to assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools plug into OBD ports and guide the customer through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the car's computer.

Jump-starting the battery

A lot of people keep a set in their trunk to jump start a vehicle in the event of an emergency, however it might not be a good idea for newer cars. These vehicles have many digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A voltage spike when batteries are connected to another can fry the components making your car inoperable.

Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before you connect the cables to the battery that is not working. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the battery that's good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface underneath the disabled car's hood--the engine block is an ideal choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as this could trigger a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected, you can start the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged while you drive. It will take some time for it to return to its original state. You should invest in a second key fob, as soon as possible. The replacement of 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 vehicle and if they lose that they'll be charged. The reason for this is that it's not cheap to add a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. It is best to have a second key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the most effective way is to purchase an additional key as soon as you can. However, don't purchase a secondhand key even the case that it's "new." Claimed-new keys from aftermarket sellers will not perform and are almost certain to fail at the crucial moment.

The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you only have one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM to accept the new key, without replacing the whole system. This could save you lots of money. It's more affordable rather than wait until you lose the only key.

Read More: https://www.autokeys-r-us.co.uk/2981-2/