Saab Key Programming
Saab cars made since 1994 have an immobilizer feature built on coded keys. To add an additional key, you need an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. This is the reason why you should always keep a spare key in your possession.
Transponder key
The transponder can be described as a key that is equipped with an electronic chip. This chip sends a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car is able to check whether the signal matches the one on the key. If the signals are in sync it will unlock and start. This is a great method to guard your car against theft.
Transponder keys are an increasingly popular feature in automobiles, however you should be aware that they aren't as secure as traditional keys made of metal. The metal component of the traditional keys can be easily cut and copied, however a transponder has an electronic chip which protects it. The chip is a unique code that is programmed into a car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to be turned on. But, it's only able to do this if the key fob has an unmodified chip that has been programmed to match it. If not, the car will reject the key and not start.
It is essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is especially important especially if you live in a rural area that is home to numerous car thieves. The good part is that you can get a replacement key for your Saab without having to go to a dealership and pay the high prices they ask. You can have a replacement key made on the spot at a fraction of what you would spend at a dealership.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only have one, you should purchase an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if the key is lost and the car needs an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly especially for used vehicles.
The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most laborious part of the project and it will require lots of soldering. There isn't a standard method to do it, but you must think about how to connect and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you can 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 key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will protect the pins that are used for key switches from current and stop them from being shorted. TheKeyLab allows current to flow in one direction, and it comes with a the black band as a visual indicator that indicates the direction in which current will flow.
Some of the tools you can find at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- may help customers in the shop, or even DIY customers in some cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer information, Sanabria says. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide the customer through each step making the process simpler than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jump starting the battery
The majority of people have a set in their trunks to jump-start their vehicle in an emergency, but this might not be a good idea for cars with more modern technology. These cars have a variety of digital and computer systems that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage while the battery is connected to another can fry these components, rendering your vehicle undriveable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is operating. 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 of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface underneath the disabled car's hood. The engine block is an ideal choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery, since it could spark a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected the disabled vehicle and let it run for about five minutes before you disconnect them in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged as you drive. It takes a while for it to drop back down. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, since replacing the sole working one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and a special program to convince it that the lost keys aren't trying to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners only have one key for their vehicle and if they lose it, it's going to cost them. It's expensive to buy keys and will require replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft or any other catastrophe it is best to have an extra key. Even when the key is "new" it won't work.
The dealer will charge you the most expensive dollar for only one working key. We can, however, reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept a new key without replacing the whole system. This can save you lots of money. It's cheaper to do this than waiting until you lose the sole key.