The Ultimate Guide To Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 come with an immobilizer system built on coded keys. A new transponder is required for the addition of an extra key, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder is a type of key equipped with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is placed in the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal matches with the one on the key. If the signals match, the car will unlock itself and start. This is a great method to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys may be an increasingly popular feature for cars, but they're not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal part of a traditional key can be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip contains a unique code that is programmed into a car's computer order to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob if it is equipped with an unmodified chip and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and won't start.
It is essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area that is home to many car thieves. The good news is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to an auto dealership and pay the high costs they ask. In most cases, you can have an original key made on the spot at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you only have one, it's recommended to purchase an extra key fob as quickly as you can in case you lose it, the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders have to be replaced. This can be costly particularly if you are buying a used car.
The next step is to connect the wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, but you must think about how to route and connect each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller pins and wires 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. To do this, you need to place a diode on each key switch pin and then solder it. This will protect the pins on the key switch from current and keep them from being shorted. The diode will only allow current to flow in one direction, and it also has a an indicator in black that shows the direction in which current will flow.
Sanabria states that a number of the tools available in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 can assist customers who are shopping or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it simpler than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunk to use in an emergency, but jumping a battery on modern vehicles may not be the best option. These vehicles are equipped with many computers and digital devices which communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another one could damage these components and leave your vehicle undriveable.
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 saab 93 replacement key to a clean unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled car. The engine block is a good alternative. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, since it could spark an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected, turn on the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It may take a while it to drop back down. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince the system that your lost keys aren't trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. It's expensive to add keys and will require replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. It is best to have a spare key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the most effective way is to purchase an extra key as soon as you are able to. Don't buy a secondhand key, even if it's "new." Keys that are claimed-new from aftermarket sellers will not perform and are almost certain to fail in the crucial moment.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help if you have only one working key, and the dealer will charge you top dollar to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer to make it ready to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. That can save you a significant amount of money. It's less expensive than waiting until you loose the only key.