5 Killer Quora Answers To Saab Ignition Key Replacement
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured from 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on key codes. A new transponder is required for the inclusion of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. It is always advisable to keep an extra set of keys at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder key comes with an electronic chip that sends a signal back to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine if it matches that of the key. If the signals match the car will then unlock and start. This is a great way to stop car theft and keep your car safe from thieves.
Transponder keys can be an extremely popular accessory for cars, but they're not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key can be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip is a unique code which is programmed into a car's computers in 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 the device has an unmodified chip and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would refuse to accept the key and will not start.
It is vital to have an extra Saab key. This is particularly important especially if you reside in a rural region where there are numerous car thieves. The good news is that it's possible to find a replacement key to your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealer and pay the hefty prices that they demand. In most cases, you can have an original key made on the spot for less than half the cost of what you'd pay at the dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars typically come with two keys upon purchase. If you only have one, it's recommended to purchase an extra key fob as soon as you can as if you lose it the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders need to be replaced. This can be costly especially for cars that are used.
The next step is to wire the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a good amount of soldering. There's no standard way to accomplish this, however it is essential to determine the way you'll route and solder the rows and columns. There are 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect for this keyboard. It has 5 rows and 17 column.
After the columns and rows are soldered together after which it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current and prevent them from being shorted. A diode allows current to flow in one direction, and has a an indicator in black that shows the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- could help customers in the shop, or even DIY users in some cases programme replacement keys and recover the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump starting the battery
Most people keep an assortment of tools in their trunks to start a vehicle in an emergency, but this might not be a good idea for newer cars. They have numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A voltage surge when a battery is connected to another could cause damage to the components making your car inoperable.
Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before you connect the cables to the non-working one. Attach lost saab keys to the positive terminal on the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean and unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of the affected vehicle. The engine block is a great alternative. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, since this could trigger a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
After the cables have been connected, you need to start the car and let it run about five minutes. Then disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged while you drive. It will take some time for it to drop back down. It is recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as possible. Replacing the only one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if it is lost, they'll be charged. It's expensive to purchase the key and also requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft, or any other catastrophe it is advisable to have a spare key. Even when the key is "new" it will not function.
The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you have only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order for it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. This could help you save money. It's much cheaper than waiting until you lose your only key.