Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer feature made up of coded keys. To add an additional key, you need a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key at hand.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key with an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to see if it matches the one on the key. If the signals are in sync, the car will unlock and begin. This is a great way to deter auto theft and keep your vehicle safe from thieves.
Transponder keys could be a popular addition to cars, but they're not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key may be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. The chip contains a unique code which is programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to be turned on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. The car won't start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It's essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially true especially if you reside in a rural area where there are a lot of car thieves. The good news is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to an auto dealership and pay the hefty prices that they ask. In most cases, you can have a new key created on-the-spot for less than half the cost you would pay at a dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars usually come with two keys upon purchase. If you only have one, it's an ideal idea to purchase an extra key fob as soon as is possible, because if you lose it, your car will require the replacement of a CIM unit, and the locking cylinders will need to be replaced. This can be costly, especially for used cars.
The next step is to connect the wires for the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and requires a significant amount of soldering. There is no standard method to accomplish this, but it is crucial to plan the way you'll route and solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect for this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After The Key Lab and column are joined, it is time to connect the key switches. To do this, place an inverter over each pin of the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins from current and prevent them from being shortened. The diode will only allow current to flow in one direction, and has a an indicator in black that shows the direction in which current will flow.
Sanabria states that some of the tools offered 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 data. The tools plug into 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 the set in their trunks to jump start a vehicle in an emergency, but it may not be a good idea for vehicles that are newer. They have numerous digital and electronic devices that communicate with each other. A voltage spike when a battery is hooked up to another battery could fry these components and leave your vehicle undriveable.
Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before connecting the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that is good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clear, unpainted metal surface under the hood of the affected vehicle. The engine block is an excellent option. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, as this could trigger an ignition source that ignites gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected, you can start the vehicle and let it run for about five minutes. Then, disconnect them in reverse. Remember that the battery on your Saab 9-3 is charged during your drive, which means it will take a while to get the battery back to normal. It's a good idea to invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys are not trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners only have one key for their vehicle and if they lose that it's going to cost them. It's expensive to buy a key and requires replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. It is best to have a spare key in the event of theft or any other catastrophe, and the best way is to buy an extra key as quickly as you can. Even it's "new", it won't work.
The dealer will charge you the most expensive dollar for only one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept the new key without having to replace the entire system. This could save you a significant amount of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.