The Saab Ignition Key Replacement Success Story You'll Never Imagine
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced from 1994 have an immobilizer system based on coded keys. In order to add a second key, it requires a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer with a specialized Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key that has an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is inserted in the ignition. The car is able to check if the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals are the same it will open itself and begin. This is a great method to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys are a common feature in automobiles, however it is important to know that they're not as secure as classic metal keys. While the metal component of a traditional key could be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains an unique code that is inserted 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 it is equipped with a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and not start.
It is crucial to have an extra Saab key. This is particularly important if you live in a rural location where there are numerous car thieves. The good news is that you can find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealership and pay the expensive prices they ask. In most instances, you can get a new key made on-the-spot for less than half the cost you'd pay at the dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only have one, you should get an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if the key is lost the car will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially for used vehicles.
The next step is to connect the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most laborious aspect of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There isn't a standard way to accomplish this, but it is crucial to plan the route you'll take and solder the rows and columns. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins 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. To do this, put a diode on each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins from current, thus preventing them from being shortened. A diode allows current to flow in one direction, and it comes with a the black band as a visual indicator that shows the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools you can find at auto parts storeslike the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- could help customers in the shop, or even DIY users in some cases create replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer data Sanabria says. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide the user through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the car's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep the set in their trunk to jump start a car in an emergency, but this might not be a good idea for cars with more modern technology. These cars are equipped with a variety of electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another one could cause damage to the parts making your car unusable.
Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for around two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface underneath the car's hood. G28 Car Keys is a good choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create a spark, which would ignite gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, turn on the disabled vehicle and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged as you drive. It will take a while for it to drop back down. You should consider purchasing a second key fob, as soon as possible. The replacement of the one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement case
Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if it is lost, they'll be charged. It's expensive to buy an additional key and it requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. It is recommended to have a spare key in case of theft or other disaster and the best option is to purchase an extra key as soon as you are able to. Even it's "new" it will not work.
The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you only have one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This can save you a significant amount of money. It's cheaper to do this than wait until you lose the sole key.