15 Reasons Not To Be Ignoring Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 have an immobilizer system made up of coded keys. To add an additional key, you need a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys available.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are in sync, the car will unlock and start. This is a great way to deter car theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.
Transponder keys may be an extremely popular accessory for cars, but they are not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal part of a conventional key can be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip is equipped with a unique code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to be turned on. The car will only recognize the key fob if it has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. If not, the car will refuse to accept the key and will not start.
It's important to make sure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly true especially if you live in a rural area that is home to many car thieves. The good part is that you can find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealer and pay the expensive prices that they demand. You can have the replacement key on the spot for less than half of the price you'd spend at dealerships.
Key for Wired
Saab cars typically come with two keys when new. If you only own one, you need to purchase an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost, the car will need an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially if buying a second-hand car.
The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most laborious part of the project and will require lots of soldering. There is no standardized way to accomplish this, but it is essential to determine the route you'll take and solder the columns and rows. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. Solder saab key programmer on each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current, and prevent them from getting shorted. A diode can only allow the current to flow in a single direction, and it has an indicator of black color that indicates the direction current will flow.
Some of the tools available at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can help shop customers or even DIY customers in certain cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump starting the battery
Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunk for emergencies however, jumping a battery on newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with a number of computers and digital devices that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage while a battery is hooked up to another can fry the components and render your vehicle unable to drive.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is operating. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the good battery (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 a good option. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery because it could spark an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected, begin the car and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 will be charged when you drive, so it may take some time for the battery to come back to normal. You should invest in a second key fob, as soon as possible. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Saab owners typically only have one car key, and if it is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's expensive to purchase a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. In the event of theft or any other catastrophe, it is best to have a spare key. Even if the key is "new" it will not work.
The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you only have one working key. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer for it to accept a new key without having to replace the entire system. This could save you a lot of money. It's more affordable than wait until you loose the only key.