Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism made up of coded keys. A new transponder is required for inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done at the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that it can be very costly. This is the reason why you should always have a spare key available.
Transponder key
The transponder key comes with an electronic chip that transmits a signal to the car when it is inserted into ignition. The car will then check the signal to see whether it is identical to the one that is in the key. If the signals are identical the car will then unlock itself and begin. This is a great way to deter car theft and keep your car secure from thieves.
Transponder keys are a popular feature in automobiles, but it is important to know that they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key could be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains an individual code that is encoded into the car's system to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. However, it will only do this if the fob is equipped with a chip that is not modified that has been programmed to match it. If not, the car will reject the key and not start.
It's important to make sure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially true especially if you reside in a rural location where there are many car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership and not paying their high costs. In the majority of cases, you can have a new key created on-the-spot at a fraction of the price of what you would pay at the dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you only have one, it is best to acquire an extra key fob as soon as you can as if you lose it, the car will require an entirely new 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 row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a large deal of soldering. There is no standard method to do this, but it is essential to determine how you will route and solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect for this keyboard. It has 5 rows and 17 columns.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's the time to connect them to the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current, preventing them from getting shorted. A diode permits current to only flow in only one direction. It has a visual indicator with a black band that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and the IM508 are able to assist shoppers or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide the customer through each step making the process simpler than replacing the car's computer.
Jumpstarting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunks in case of emergency, but jumping a battery on modern vehicles may not be the best choice. They have numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another battery could fry these components and leave your car undriveable.
Start the vehicle you are using and let it run for about two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface under the disabled vehicle's hood. An engine block is an excellent choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as this could cause an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected the vehicle that has been disabled and allow it to run for around five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge while you drive. It will take some time for it to drop back down. It's a good idea purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that your lost keys aren't attempting to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Saab owners often only have one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. G28CarKeys is that it's expensive to add a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. It's recommended to have a backup key in the event of theft or other disaster and the most effective way is to purchase a second key as quickly as you can. But don't buy a used key, even it's "new." Claimed-new keys from aftermarket sellers will not work and are likely to fail in the crucial moment.
The dealer will charge you the most expensive dollar if you have only one working key. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM in order for it to accept a replacement key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you a great deal of money. It's cheaper to do this than waiting until you loose the only key.