How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a unique set of steps to take to add the second key. This requires a handheld computer, called Tech-2 which is to be used by the dealer. Then a new key as well as transponder need to be bought and then programmed into the car.
It is recommended to rotate your keys in order that one doesn't wear out faster than the other. This will also help to keep your keys in pristine condition.
Replacement Case
In contrast to the traditional Saab keys of the past keys, the new key fobs are equipped with electronics which makes it difficult to make a copy. This has made stealing cars considerably more difficult than it was twenty years ago. It also makes it more expensive to replace keys lost.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys working. If one is lost it is expensive to replace it in the car because it involves replacing the CIM module and reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100-$200 to do this.
There are ways to avoid these high costs. Some parts dealers will find the code on an extra key (usually the same one that opens the doors and switches the ignition) and cut a new metal key blade for a fraction of the dealer's cost. The key must, however, be the same as the original one to function properly in your vehicle.
Follow these steps to replace the case. You will need to have an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver, slowly pry the plastic apart and remove the emergency key from the case. Once the case is open, remove the electronics and place them into the new case. Make sure you insert the correct badge and key back inside the case, too.
Replacement Battery
The replacement battery for the Saab 9-3 is an inexpensive component that can be replaced easily and quickly. This YouTube tutorial for DIY Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the battery in the remote key fob in only four steps. This guide should work with any modern saab key fob, although the process might differ slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that will release the backup key inside the fob. This button is usually located on the back of the fob close to the Saab Logo. Next use a flathead screwdriver to insert into the small hole inside this button. This should be sufficient to let the fob case open so that you can replace the battery.
After you have installed the new batteries CR1632, you can put back together your remote key fob. You can then program it into your car. The entire process should not take more than an hour at most. It's a simple procedure that doesn't require any special equipment.
The procedure is a little more complex if you lose the key, but it's possible. The dealer will need to determine the VIN of the car and then order a new key blade and TWICE module, both with the exact unique code. The dealer will then need to program the key using MDI, a brand new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob is the part that locks and unlocks your car, it's got batteries inside. Batteries have a limited lifespan and will eventually fail. It's a common issue in all vehicles. The good thing is that you can replace the battery in all key fobs, and not have to replace the entire case. You can purchase fobs replacements on Amazon that come with all the electronic components already installed, which means you can simply open the case and replace those batteries that are old. You'll need to remove the emergency key before you can replace the batteries. To do this, you need to insert a small screwdriver that is flat into the slot that is in the middle of the. The case will split when you rotate the screwdriver around it.
If you're ready to replace your keys, be sure to have a spare available. This will save you a significant amount of money. If you have an extra key, you can ask the dealer to cut the key and program it for your car. This is much less expensive than purchasing a new key fob.
If you do not have a spare key one, you can add an additional key to your car, however this will require a lot of research and effort. Adding a second key costs several hundred dollars and it also requires the programming of the car's computer. This can be accomplished by a professional, but it's an expensive option for the majority of owners.
Replacement Ignition
The new SAAB 9-3 uses an alarm system that is more sophisticated that is based on a key code. If you lose only one key, it may be costly to get another one, as the car has to have a special computer added and be programmed to accept a new key. The majority of locksmiths aren't able to do this, and even a dealer will charge several hundred dollars just to program the new key!
If you've lost your only working key, a dealer will replace the computer in your car (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make the replacement, and will charge a premium for it. Instead we can reprogramme the EEPROM of your current car computer to allow it to be programmed for a replacement key, saving you over 50% of what you'd have to pay at a dealership.
If you've owned a SAAB 9-3 for a long time and you're aware of the ignition keys are not very durable. They can become incredibly sticky and the buttons can fall off of them occasionally and you should think about purchasing a new one if yours isn't working as it should. It's not as difficult as it appears to replace the ignition key. With the right tools, it can be accomplished in a short time.