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9 Signs You're A Saab Ignition Key Replacement Expert
Saab Key Programming

Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 have an immobilizer feature based on coded keys. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of an extra key, as well as special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The problem is that this can be very costly. This is why you should always have a spare key on hand.

Transponder key

The transponder can be described as a key equipped with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is inserted in the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it is the same as that of the key. If the signals are identical the car will be able to unlock itself and begin. This is a great method to prevent car theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.

Transponder keys are a favored feature in automobiles, however you must be aware that they aren't as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal portion of a traditional key can be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip contains a unique code which is programmed into the car's computer in order to identify it.


When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. In the absence of that, the car will reject the key and won't start.

It's important to make sure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly true for those who live in a rural area with numerous car thieves. The good news is that it's possible to find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealer and pay the high prices that they demand. You can get a replacement key made on the spot for less than half the price you'd spend at a dealership.

Wired key

Saab cars typically come with two keys upon purchase. If you own only one, it is recommended to get an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car is damaged, it will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially if you're buying a second-hand car.

The next step is to wire the wires of the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the toughest aspect of the project and will require a lot of soldering. There is no standardized way to accomplish this, but it's important to plan out the way you'll route and solder the columns and rows. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.

After the columns and rows are joined, it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the pins from current, thus preventing them from being cut off. A diode permits current to only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator, a black band, that indicates which direction current will flow.

Some of the tools you can find at auto parts storeslike the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can assist customers at the shop or DIY customers in certain cases create replacement keys and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.

Jump starting the battery

A majority of people keep a set in their trunk to jump-start a car in case of emergency, but this might not be the best idea for vehicles that are newer. These cars are equipped with a variety of digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another can fry these components and render your vehicle unable to drive.

Start the vehicle that is working and allow it to run for around two minutes before connecting the cables to the disabled one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface underneath the car's hood--the engine block is an excellent choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery as this could cause an ignition that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once saab key replacement G28CarKeys are connected, you need to start the car and let it run for about five minutes. Then disconnect them in reverse. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged during your drive, which means it can take a while for the battery to go down. It is recommended to purchase an additional key fob when you can. The replacement of the one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.

Replacement case

Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it's not inexpensive to purchase a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It's best to have a spare key in the event of theft or other disaster and the best option is to purchase an extra key as early as you can. However, don't purchase a secondhand key even the case that it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new from aftermarket sellers will not be effective and are almost guaranteed to fail at the crucial moment.

Most locksmiths cannot help you when you only have one working key and the dealer will charge you high fees to replace the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the entire system. This can save you a significant amount of money. It's also less expensive than waiting until you lose the only key.

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