10 Things Everyone Hates About Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced from 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on key codes. A new transponder is required to allow the addition of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. Always keep a spare set of keys in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder is a type of key that is equipped with an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed in the ignition. The car is able to check whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals match it will unlock and start. This is a fantastic way to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in cars, but you should be aware that they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal portion of a traditional key may be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. This chip contains an unique code that is programmed into the car's computers to identify it.
When a saab 93 key programming key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob if the device has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. In the absence of that, the car will reject the key and not start.
It is vital to have an extra Saab key. This is particularly important especially if you live in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. You can purchase a new key for your saab key code by visiting the dealership, without having to pay their expensive costs. In most instances, you can get an original key made on the spot at a fraction of the price of what you'd pay at the dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you have only one, it is recommended to purchase an extra key fob as soon as possible as if you lose it, the car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders have to be replaced. This could be expensive particularly if you are purchasing a used vehicle.
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 lots of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, but you need to think about how to program saab 9-3 key fob to route and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns, so 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 the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current, thus preventing them from getting shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It comes with a visual indicator that is black, that indicates the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools available at auto parts stores- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can help customers in the shop, or even DIY customers in certain cases program replacement keys and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to OBD ports and help the customer through each step, making the process easier than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep a set in their trunks to jump-start their vehicle in the event of an emergency, however it might not be a good option for vehicles with newer technology. These vehicles are equipped with electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A surge of voltage 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 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 beneath the damaged vehicle's hood. An engine block is a good option. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could trigger sparks, which would ignite the gasoline that is in the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, you should begin the car and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Be aware that the battery in your Saab 9-3 is charged during your drive, which means it may take some time for the battery to come down. It's a good idea purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the only functioning one requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys are not trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, the cost will be. The reason is that it's not cheap to buy a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It is best to have a second key in case of theft or any other catastrophe, and the best way is to purchase an additional key as soon as you can. Even it's "new", it will not work.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar if you have only one working key. However, we can reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept the new key, without replacing the whole system. This can save you lots of money. It's more affordable rather than wait until you lose the only key.