Is Technology Making Saab Ignition Key Replacement Better Or Worse?

· 4 min read
Is Technology Making Saab Ignition Key Replacement Better Or Worse?

Saab Key Programming

Saab cars produced since 1994 utilize an immobilizer system that relies on key codes. A new transponder is required for addition of a second key, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The problem is that this can be extremely expensive. This is why you should always have a spare key on hand.

Transponder key

The transponder key is a piece of hardware equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal to car when it is placed in the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is the same as the one on the key. If both signals match it will open itself and start. This is a great method to prevent auto theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.

Transponder keys are a common feature in vehicles, but it is important to know that they're not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key could be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has a unique code embedded into the car's computer to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to be turned on. But, it's only able to do this if the fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match it. In the absence of that, the car will reject the key and not start.

It's crucial to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is especially important when you live in a rural location where there are many car thieves.  saab car key replacement  can purchase a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership, without having to pay their expensive costs. You can have an original key made on the spot for less than half the price you'd spend at the dealership.

Wired key

Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only have one, it is an ideal idea to purchase an additional key fob as quickly as you can as if you lose it, the car will require a new CIM unit and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This can be expensive particularly for used cars.

The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most tedious component of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you need to determine how to route and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 column.

After the columns and rows are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins on the key switch from current and prevent them from being shorted. A diode lets current only flow in only one direction. It has a visual indicator of a black line that indicates which direction current will flow.

Some of the tools offered at auto parts stores- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- may help customers in the shop, or even DIY customers in certain cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer data Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer in the vehicle.

Jump starting the battery

The majority of people have an item in their trunk to jump start a car in case of emergency, but this might not be a good idea for newer cars. These cars are equipped with a variety of electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another one could damage these components and leave your car undriveable.

Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for around two minutes before connecting the cables to the non-working one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of your disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, since it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.


Once the cables are connected, you should start the vehicle and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged while you drive. It will take a while for it to drop back down. You should consider purchasing another key fob as soon as possible. Replacing the one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.

Replacement Case

Many Saab owners only have one key for their vehicle and if they lose that it's going to cost them. The reason for this is that it's costly to purchase a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. In the event of theft or any other disaster it is advisable to have a spare key. Don't buy a secondhand key even when it's "new." Keys that are claimed-new from aftermarket sellers will not perform and are almost certain to fail at the critical moment.

The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you only have one working key. However, we can reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept the new key without having to replace the whole system. This could save you a lot of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose your one key.