Saab Key Programming
Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 have an immobilizer system made up of coded keys. In order to add a second key, it requires a new transponder and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that this can be extremely expensive. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys available.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is placed in the ignition. The car then checks to see whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals match, the car will unlock and begin. This is an excellent way to protect your car from theft.
Transponder keys may be an extremely popular accessory for automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal component of a traditional key may be cut and copied the transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip has a unique code that's programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on. However, it will only do this if the fob has an unmodified chip that has been programmed to match. The car won't start if the key is not programmed to match.
It's important to make sure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially important for those who live in a rural region where there are many car thieves. You can purchase a new key for your Saab by going to the dealership without paying pricey costs. In most cases, you can have a new key created on-the-spot for less than half the price of what you'd pay at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you only have one, it is best to acquire an additional key fob as soon as you can in case you lose it, the car will require a new CIM unit and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This can be costly especially if you're purchasing a used car.
The next step is to connect the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the toughest part of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There is no standard method to do this, but it is crucial to plan the routes you'll use to solder the rows and columns. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, so there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each key switch pin and solder it. This will protect the pins from current, thus preventing them from getting shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in one direction. It has a visual indicator that is black, that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that a few of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508 can assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. The tools plug into the OBD port and guide the customer through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
The majority of people have a set of jumper cables in their trunk in case of emergency, but jumping a battery on modern automobiles might not be the best option. These vehicles are equipped with numerous computers and digital devices which communicate with each other. A voltage spike when a battery is hooked up to another could cause damage to these components, rendering your car undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Allow saab ignition key to 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 to a clean, unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is a great alternative. The black cable should not be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could create sparks, which could ignite the gasoline inside the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, you need to begin the car and allow it to run for around five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It will take a while for it to drop back down. You should consider purchasing a second key fob, when you can. The replacement of the one that works requires the installation and programming of a new computer chip.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose it, the cost will be. It's expensive to add the key and also requires replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. It is recommended to have a second key in case of theft or any other catastrophe and the most effective way is to purchase an extra key as early as you can. Even when the key is "new" it will not work.
The dealer will charge the highest dollar for only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order for it to accept a replacement key without replacing the entire system. This could save you a lot of money. It's more affordable than waiting until you loose the only key.