Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism made up of coded keys. Adding an extra key requires a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that it can be very costly. You should always keep a spare set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a piece of key that is equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends 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 are in sync it will open and start. This is a great way to deter car theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a common feature in automobiles, but it is important to know that they are not as secure as classic metal keys. The metal component of the traditional key is easily cut and copied, however transponders have an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip has an individual code that is embedded into the car’s computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to be turned on. However, it will only do so if the key fob has a non-modified chip that has been programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and not start.
It’s essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly important if you live in a rural area where there are many car thieves. The good thing is that you can find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealer and pay the expensive prices that they demand. You can get an original key made on the spot at a fraction of the price you’d pay at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you own only one, you should purchase an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if the key is lost the car will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive particularly if you are purchasing a used car.
The next step is to connect the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most tedious aspect of the project and will require lots of soldering. There isn’t a standard way to do this, but it is important to think about the way you’ll route and solder the rows and columns. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.
After the rows and column are soldered together then it’s time to connect the key switches. To do this, put a diode over each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will shield the pins from current, preventing them from being shortened. A diode permits current to only flow in only one direction. It comes with a visual indicator of a black line that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria states that a number of the tools sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO or IM508 can assist customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. new saab key into OBD ports and guide the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the vehicle’s computer.
Jumpstarting the battery
The majority of people have a set of jumper cables in their trunk for emergency situations however, jumping a battery in newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A voltage surge when a battery is connected to another could cause damage to the components making your car inoperable.
Start the working vehicle and let it run for about two minutes before connecting the cables to the disabled one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery (it will have “POS” or “+” on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface beneath the damaged car’s hood–the engine block is an excellent choice. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in sparks that could ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, begin the car and let it run about five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It may take a while it to fall back. It’s a good idea purchase a spare fob as soon as you can, because replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys aren’t trying to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. The reason is that it’s expensive to buy a new key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It’s best to have a spare key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to purchase an additional key as soon as you are able to. Even it’s “new”, it will not function.
The majority of locksmiths won’t be able to help in the event that you only have one working key and the dealer will charge top dollar to replace the computer in your car for a replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer’s EEPROM to accept an alternative key without replacing the entire system. This could save you lots of money. It’s less expensive rather than wait until you loose the only key.