Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced from 1994 have an immobilizer system that relies on coded keys. A new transponder is required for the addition of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this could be quite costly. This is why it is important to always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal matches with the one on the key. If the signals are identical, the car will unlock itself and begin. This is a great method to prevent car theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in vehicles, but you should be aware they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal component of a traditional key could be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. The chip is equipped with a unique code programmed into the car's computers to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to turn on. But, it's only able to do this if the key fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match it. If not, the car will reject the key and not start.
It is vital to have a spare Saab key. This is especially important when you live in a rural area that is home to numerous car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying high prices. You can have an original key made on the spot for less than half of the price you'd pay at dealerships.
Wired key
Saab cars usually come with two keys upon purchase. If you own only one, you should purchase an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if it's lost, the car will need a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly, especially for used cars.
The next step is connecting the wires for columns and rows to your microcontroller. This is the toughest part of the project, and it will require lots of soldering. There is no standard method to accomplish this, however it's important to plan out the routes you'll use to solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 columns.
After the rows and column are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current, and prevent them from being shortened. A diode lets current only flow in only one direction. It comes with a visual indicator that is black, that shows the direction in which the current will flow.
Sanabria states that some of the tools sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and IM508 are able to assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. The tools plug into OBD ports and guide the customer through each step making the process simpler than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jump starting the battery
The majority of people have the set in their trunk to jump start a car in case of emergency, however it might not be a good idea for newer cars. These vehicles are equipped with electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when a battery is hooked up to another one could damage these components and leave your vehicle undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is operating. Allow it to 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 a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the damaged vehicle's hood. An engine block is a good choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. saab key replacement cost could trigger sparks, which could ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected the vehicle you are not using and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge while you drive. It will take some time for it to drop back down. You should consider purchasing another key fob as soon as possible. Replacing the only 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 car and if they lose that the cost will be. It's expensive to purchase keys and will require replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft or other catastrophe it is advisable to have a spare key. Even if the key is "new" it will not work.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar for only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order to make it ready to accept a replacement key without the need to replace the entire system. This can save you a significant amount of money. It's less expensive than wait until you lose the only key.