How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a unique set of steps to take to add a second key. It requires dealer service using a handheld computer called Tech-2. Then a new car key and transponder are required to be purchased and programmed to the car.
Change your keys regularly to prevent one from deteriorating faster than another. This will help keep your keys in good condition.
Replacement Case
As opposed to the traditional Saab keys of old keys, the new key fobs have electronics inside which makes it more difficult to create a duplicate. This has made stealing cars much more difficult than twenty years ago. However, it has also made replacing lost keys a much more costly endeavor.
Saab 9-3 owners should have two keys that work. It costs a fortune to replace a lost key, as it requires replacing the CIM module, as well as reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 for this.
There are ways to reduce the high cost. Some parts suppliers will use the code of the spare key to cut a new metal blade for a fraction of that of a dealer. The key must be exactly the same as the original in order for it to work in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver you can pull away the plastic and take out the emergency key. Once the case is open take out all electronic components and put them in your new case. Make sure you insert the correct badge and key back into the case as well.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is an inexpensive part that can be replaced quickly and easily. This YouTube video from Cyclone Cyd demonstrates how you can replace the battery for the remote fob in just four simple steps. This tutorial should work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process could differ slightly.
The button is normally located close to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. This button is typically located on the back of your fob, close to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead to insert the screwdriver into the tiny hole in this button. This should be enough to unlock the fob's case to allow you to replace the battery.
After the new battery CR1632 is in place, you can reassemble the remote key fob and program it to your car. The entire process shouldn't be more than an hour. It's a very easy process that does not require any special equipment.
The process is a bit more complicated if you lose your key, but it is possible. The dealer must verify the VIN of the car, and then purchase a replacement key blade and a TWICE module with the correct unique code. The dealer will then have to program the key using MDI, a brand new software tool.
Key Replacement Fob
The key fob is equipped with batteries that are used to lock and unlock your vehicle. Batteries have a limited lifespan and eventually will die. This is a common problem that happens to all cars and the good thing is that you can replace the batteries in many key fobs without replacing the entire case. You can buy replacement fobs from Amazon that include all the electronics already installed, so you can simply open the case and replace those batteries that are old. It is important to keep in mind that you'll need to remove the emergency key first, and you can do this by inserting a small flathead screwdriver into the slot that is located in the middle of the case. The case will split when you move the screwdriver around it.
If you're planning to replace your keys, have a spare in your possession. This will save you a significant amount of money. If you have a spare you can request that the dealer cut the new key and program it to your car, which is cheaper than replacing the entire key fob.
It is possible to add another key to your car in the event that you don't have one, but it will require some research and effort. The cost of adding a second key is several hundred dollars and it requires programming of the car's computer. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it's a costly option for the majority of owners.
Replacement Ignition
The modern SAAB 9-3 is an advanced alarm system built on a keycode. This means that if you lose your only working key, acquiring another key can be extremely expensive as the car has to have a unique computer module added and it also needs to be specifically programmed to accept a new key. Dealers can charge hundreds of dollars to program an additional key when they are not able to do it.
If you've lost your sole working key, a dealer will replace your car's computer (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make a replacement, and they will charge a premium for it. We can reprogramme the existing EEPROM inside your car's computer to make it ready for an additional key. This will save you more than 50% of the cost you would pay the dealer.
If you have owned a SAAB 9-3 an extended period of time you're aware that the ignition keys aren't very durable. If your ignition key is not working correctly, you should consider replacing it. saab key fob programming can become extremely sticky and the buttons have been known to fall off. It's not as difficult as it seems to replace the ignition key. With the proper tools, it can be done quickly.