The Main Issue With Saab Ignition Key Replacement, And How You Can Fix It
Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism made up of coded keys. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that it can be quite costly. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is inserted in the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are the same the car will be able to unlock itself and begin. This is a great way to stop auto theft and keep your car safe from thieves.
Transponder keys may be an increasingly popular feature for cars, but they are not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. The metal portion of a traditional keys can be easily copied and cut, but transponders are protected by an electronic chip that protects it. The chip contains a unique code that is programmed into a car's computer order 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 has an unmodified chip that has been programmed to match it. The car won't start if the key is not programmed to match.
It's crucial to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is particularly true for those who live in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. The good news is that you can find a replacement key to your Saab without needing to visit a dealer and pay the high prices that they demand. In most cases, you can have a new key made on-the-spot at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay at a dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you have only one, it's recommended to purchase an additional key fob as quickly as you can as if you lose it, your car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders have to be replaced. This can be expensive especially for cars that are used.
The next step is to connect the wires for columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the toughest component of the project and it will require a lot of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, but you need to plan how to route and connect each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. It has five rows and 17 columns.
After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to the key switches. To do this, place an inverter over each pin of the key switch and then solder it. This will protect the pins from current and prevent them from getting shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It features a visual indicator, a black band, that indicates which direction current will flow.
A few of the tools that are available at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- could assist customers at the shop or DIY customers in certain instances programme replacement keys and recover lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and guide the user through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks for emergency situations, but jumping a battery in newer vehicles may not be the most efficient option. These vehicles are equipped with digital and computers that communicate with each other. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another one could damage these components and render your car undriveable.
Start the working vehicle and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the non-working one. 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 underneath the car's hood. The engine block would be a good choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as it could ignite an ignition that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected the vehicle you are not using and allow it to run for around five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. Be aware that the battery of your Saab 9-3 is charged when you drive, and it will take a while for the battery to go back down again. It is a good idea to purchase a spare fob as soon as you can, because replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys aren't attempting to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners only have one key for their car and if they lose it, they'll be charged. saab fob key replacement to add a key and requires replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. It is recommended to have a second key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe and the most effective way is to purchase an extra key as early as you can. Even if the key is "new" it will not function.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollar if you have only one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept a new key without replacing the whole system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's more affordable than wait until you lose your only key.