saab 93 replacement key built since 1994 feature an immobilizer system based on keys that are coded. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of a second key, and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that it can be extremely expensive. It is recommended to always have a spare set of keys at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key that is equipped with an electronic chip. The chip transmits a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to see if it matches the one that is in the key. If the signals are in sync, the car will unlock and start. This is an excellent way to protect your car from theft.
Transponder keys may be an increasingly popular feature for cars, but they're not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal portion of a traditional key can be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. This chip has an individual code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on. However, it can only do this if the key fob has an unmodified chip that has been programmed to match it. The car will not start in the event that the key has not been programmed to match.
It is essential to have an extra Saab key. This is especially important for those who live in a rural location where there are numerous car thieves. The good part is that you can obtain a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealership and pay the hefty prices they ask. You can get an original key made on the spot at a fraction of the price you'd spend at the dealership.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you have only one, it's recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as you can since if you lose it, the car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This can be costly particularly for used cars.
The next step is connecting the wires for columns and rows to your microcontroller. This is the most challenging part of the project and will require a great deal of soldering. There's no standard way to go about it, however, you should determine how to route and connect each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After the columns and rows are joined, it is time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the key switch pins from current and also prevent them from being shorted. A diode allows the flow of current to be in one direction, and it comes with a a black band visual indicator that indicates the direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools sold in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and IM508 can assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer 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.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep an item in their trunks to jump-start a vehicle in an emergency, however it might not be a good option for vehicles with newer technology. These vehicles are equipped with a number of electronic devices and computers that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another battery could fry these components and render your car undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle operating. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean, unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks that could ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, start the vehicle and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged during your drive, which means it will take a while for the battery to go back down again. It's a good idea invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only functioning one requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince the system that your lost keys aren't attempting to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, it's going to cost them. It's expensive to purchase an additional key and it requires replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. In the event of theft, or any other disaster it is recommended to have a spare key. Even if 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 EEEPROM of your computer to make it ready to accept a new key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.