Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer system built on coded keys. A new transponder is required in order to enable the inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that it can be very expensive. It is recommended to always have a spare set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder keys are keys with an electronic chip that sends a signal to car when it is inserted into the ignition. The car will then check the signal to see if it matches that of the key. If the signals are in sync it will unlock and start. This is a great method to prevent car theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.
Transponder keys are a favored feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they aren't as secure as classic metal keys. The metal component of the traditional key can be easily cut or copied, while transponders are protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. The chip is a unique code which is programmed into a car's computers in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on. The car will only recognize the key fob when it has an unmodified chip and programmed to match. The car will not start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is crucial to have an extra Saab key. This is especially true especially if you reside in a rural region where there are a lot of car burglars. You can get a new key for your Saab by going to the dealership and not paying their expensive cost. In most cases, you can have a new key made on-the-spot at a fraction of the price of what you'd pay at an auto dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars typically come with two keys when they're new. If you only have one, you should get an additional key as quickly as you can. This is because if the key is lost, the car will need a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be expensive, especially for used cars.
The next step is to wire the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult component of the project and it will require a lot of soldering. It's not a standard way to go about it, but you must plan how to route and connect each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. saab replacement keys uk G28 Car Keys includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After the rows and column are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. To do this, put a diode across each pin on the key switch and then solder it. This will shield the pins from current and prevent them from getting shorted. A diode can only allow the current to flow in a single direction, and it has a black band visual indicator that indicates which way the current will flow.
Sanabria says that a few of the tools available in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 are able to assist customers who are shopping or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools connect to OBD ports and help the customer through each step which makes the process much easier than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jumpstarting the battery
A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunk in case of emergency however, jumping a battery for newer vehicles may not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with many electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another battery could fry the components and render your car undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle operating. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of 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 under the disabled car's hood. The engine block is a good option. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks that could ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, start the car and let it run for about five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Be aware that the battery in the Saab 9-3 will be charged while you drive, so it will take a while for the battery to go back down again. You should consider purchasing another key fob when you can. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their vehicle and if they lose that key, it will cost them. The reason is that it's not cheap to buy a new key, and this involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. In the event of theft, or any other catastrophe it is best to have an extra key. But don't buy a used key, even it's "new." Keys that are claimed-new from sellers selling aftermarket keys won't perform and are almost certain to fail in the most critical moment.
The dealer will charge you the most expensive dollar if you have only one working key. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This could save you lots of money. It's more affordable than wait until you lose the only key.