Saab Key Programming

saab keys cars built since 1994 feature an immobilizer that relies on keys that are coded. To add an additional key, you need an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.

This can be expensive. It is always advisable to keep an extra set of keys at hand.

Transponder key

The transponder can be described as a key that is equipped with an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to see whether it matches that of the key. If the signals match, the car will unlock and start. This is a great way to prevent auto theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.

Transponder keys can be an extremely popular accessory for automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal parts of a traditional key may be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains an unique code that is embedded into the car's computer to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. But, it's only able to do so if the key fob is unmodified and has a chip that has been programmed to match the original. Otherwise, the car will refuse to accept the key and will not start.

It is essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly important especially if you reside in a rural region where there are many car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership, without having to pay their high cost. You can have a replacement key made on the spot for less than half of what you would pay at dealerships.

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 wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most tedious part of the project and will require a lot of soldering. There's no standard way to accomplish this, but it's important to plan out the routes you'll use to solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect to this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 column.

After the columns and rows are joined after which it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will protect the pins on the key switch from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator that is black, that indicates the direction in which current will flow.

Sanabria states that some of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508 are able to assist customers who are shopping or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.

Jump starting the battery

A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunk for emergency situations, but jumping a battery in newer vehicles may not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with computers and digital devices which communicate with one another. A voltage surge while a battery is hooked up to another one could damage these components and render your car undriveable.

Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Let it run for two minutes. 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 of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the damaged car's hood--the engine block is a good choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could cause sparks, which would ignite gasoline in the engine compartment.

Once the cables are connected, you can start the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for about five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 is recharged as you drive. It will take some time for it to return to its original state. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only working one requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince it that your lost keys are not trying to steal the car.

Replacement Case

Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, key, it will cost them. The reason for this is that it's costly to buy a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It's best to have a second key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the best option is to purchase an extra key as early as you can. Don't purchase a used key, even when it's "new." Keys that are claimed to be new from a second-hand store will not work and are almost guaranteed to fail at the critical moment.

Most locksmiths can't help you in the event that you only have one working key and the dealer will charge you high prices to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM to be able to accept a replacement key without the need to replace the entire system. This could help you save money. It's less expensive than wait until you loose the only key.