Saab Key Programming
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on codes for keys. Adding an extra key requires a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder key comes with an electronic chip that transmits a signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is identical to the one on the key. If the signals are identical the car will then unlock itself and start. This is a fantastic way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are a favored feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they're not as secure as classic metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key may be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has an individual code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. The car will not start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is important to have a spare saab 9-5 key replacement key. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area with numerous car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by visiting the dealership and not paying their high cost. You can get a replacement key made on the spot for less than half the cost you would spend at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only have one, it's recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as you can in case you lose it, the car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders need to be replaced. This can be expensive especially for cars that are used.
The next step is to wire the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a great deal of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, but you must determine how to connect and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. This means there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the columns and rows are soldered together, it is time to connect the key switches. To do this, put a diode over each pin of the key switch and solder it. This will shield the key switch pins from current and stop them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator with a black band that shows which way current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools sold in auto parts stores, including the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO or IM508, can help shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically 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 an item in their trunk to jump start a car in an emergency, but this might not be the best idea for vehicles that are newer. These vehicles have many computers and digital devices that communicate with each other. A voltage surge when the battery is connected another battery could damage the components making your car unusable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean and unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled car. The engine block is a great choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, since this could cause a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
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. Remember that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, and it can take a while for the battery to come back to its original level. It's a good idea purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the one that works requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming 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 that key, it will cost them. The reason for this is that it's not cheap to buy a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It's best to have a spare key in case of theft or any other catastrophe the best solution is to buy an extra key as soon as you are able to. Even if the key is "new" it will not function.
Most locksmiths cannot help you with a single working key and the dealer will charge top dollar to replace the computer in your car to make a new replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This could help you save a significant amount of money. It's much cheaper instead of waiting until you lose the only key.
Saab cars manufactured since 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on codes for keys. Adding an extra key requires a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. This is why it is important to always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder key comes with an electronic chip that transmits a signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The car then examines the signal to determine whether it is identical to the one on the key. If the signals are identical the car will then unlock itself and start. This is a fantastic way to protect your vehicle from theft.
Transponder keys are a favored feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they're not as secure as classic metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key may be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. This chip has an individual code that is programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. The car will not start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is important to have a spare saab 9-5 key replacement key. This is particularly important if you reside in a rural area with numerous car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by visiting the dealership and not paying their high cost. You can get a replacement key made on the spot for less than half the cost you would spend at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only have one, it's recommended to purchase an additional key fob as soon as you can in case you lose it, the car will require an entirely new CIM unit and the locking cylinders need to be replaced. This can be expensive especially for cars that are used.
The next step is to wire the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a great deal of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, but you must determine how to connect and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns. This means there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After the columns and rows are soldered together, it is time to connect the key switches. To do this, put a diode over each pin of the key switch and solder it. This will shield the key switch pins from current and stop them from being shorted. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator with a black band that shows which way current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools sold in auto parts stores, including the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO or IM508, can help shoppers or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically 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 an item in their trunk to jump start a car in an emergency, but this might not be the best idea for vehicles that are newer. These vehicles have many computers and digital devices that communicate with each other. A voltage surge when the battery is connected another battery could damage the components making your car unusable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean and unpainted metal surface under the hood of the disabled car. The engine block is a great choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, since this could cause a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
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. Remember that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, and it can take a while for the battery to come back to its original level. It's a good idea purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the one that works requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince the system that your lost keys aren't attempting to steal the car.


Most locksmiths cannot help you with a single working key and the dealer will charge top dollar to replace the computer in your car to make a new replacement. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This could help you save a significant amount of money. It's much cheaper instead of waiting until you lose the only key.