Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured from 1994 have an immobilizer system that relies on coded keys. To add an additional key, you need the purchase of a new transponder as well as special programming. saab fob key replacement is usually done by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. You should always keep an extra set of keys at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder key is a key equipped with an electronic chip. It transmits a signal to the car when it is inserted into ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it matches that of the key. If the signals match then the car will be able to open and start. This is a great way to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys are a common feature in cars, but you must be aware that they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key can be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains an individual code that is programmed into the car's computers to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it can only do so if the key fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match. If not, the car will refuse to accept the key and will not start.
It is essential to have an extra Saab key. This is particularly important if you live in a rural location where there are numerous car thieves. The good thing is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealer and pay the high prices that they ask. You can have a replacement key created on the spot for less than half of the price you'd spend at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars usually come with two keys when they are new. If you only have one, you should get an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if you lose it and the car needs an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially if purchasing a used vehicle.
The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There isn't a standard way to accomplish this, however it's important to plan out the way you'll route and solder the columns and rows. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the rows and column are soldered together after which it is time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode on each pin on the key switch and then solder it. This will protect the pins of the key switch from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode only allows the current to flow in a single direction, and it has an indicator of black color that indicates which way the current will flow.
Sanabria says that a few of the tools available in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508, can help customers shopping or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it much easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jumpstarting the battery
The majority of people have a set of jumper cables in their trunk in case of emergency, but jumping a battery on modern vehicles may not be the best choice. These vehicles are equipped with numerous electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage while a battery is hooked up to another can fry these 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 of the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of your disabled vehicle. The 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 that could ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, start the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged as you drive. It may take a while it to recharge again. It's a good idea to purchase a spare fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't trying to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Saab owners usually only have one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. The reason for this is that it's costly to replace a key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It is recommended to have a backup key in case of theft or other disaster and the most effective way is to buy an extra key as soon as you can. Even it's "new", it will not function.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge high prices to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. This could save you a significant amount of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose your one key.