Saab Key Programming
Saab cars made since 1994 feature an immobilizer system that relies on keys that are coded. Adding an extra key requires a new transponder and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. You should always keep a spare set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder key is a key with an electronic chip that sends a signal back to the car when it is inserted into ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to see if it matches the one on the key. If the signals are identical the car will be able to unlock itself and begin. This is a great method to protect your car from theft.
Transponder keys could be a popular addition to cars, but they're not as safe as traditional metal keys. The metal component of the traditional key is easily copied and cut, but the transponder is protected by an electronic chip that safeguards it. This chip has a unique code programmed into the car's computers to identify it.
When a Saab key fob is used, the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. But, it's only able to do so if the key fob has a non-modified chip that has been programmed to match it. The car won't start in the event that the key is not programmed to match.
It's important to make sure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is especially important especially if you reside in a rural area, where there are a lot of car burglars. The good part is that you can obtain a replacement key for your Saab without needing to visit a dealership and pay the hefty prices they ask. You can have the replacement key on the spot for less than half the cost you would pay at an auto dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually provided with two keys. If you only own one, you should purchase an additional key as fast as you can. This is because if the key is lost the car will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive particularly if you are buying a second-hand car.
The next step is to wire the column and row wires to the microcontroller. This is the most tedious aspect of the project and will require lots of soldering. There's no standard way to accomplish this, however it is essential to determine the routes you'll use to solder the rows and columns. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you can connect for this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After the columns and rows are joined then it's time to connect the key switches. Solder a diode on each key switch pin. This will protect the key switch pins from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode can only allow the flow of current to be in one direction, and it has an indicator of black color that indicates which way the current will flow.
Some of the tools available at auto parts stores -like the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- can assist customers at the shop or DIY users in some cases program replacement keys and restore lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and automatically guide the customer through the process, making it easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
see more starting the battery
Most people keep a few sets of jumper cables in their trunk to use in an emergency however, jumping a battery in newer cars might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected another could cause damage to the components making your car inoperable.
Start the vehicle you are using and allow it to run for around two minutes before you connect the cables to the one that is disabled. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the battery that's good. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface beneath the damaged car's hood--the engine block is a good choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could cause sparks, which could ignite the gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, you can start the vehicle that is disabled and allow it to run for around five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. Remember that the battery on your Saab 9-3 is charged during your drive, which means it could take a while for the battery to go down. It's a good idea buy 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 it that the lost keys are not trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Saab owners typically only have one car key, and if it is lost, they will be charged. It's expensive to purchase keys and will require replacing the CIM or TWICE for older models. In the event of theft or any other disaster it is best to have an extra key. Even if the key is "new" it won't work.
Most locksmiths aren't able to help when you only have one working key and the dealer will charge high fees to replace the computer in your car to create a 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 can save you lots of money. It's less expensive instead of waiting until you lose the only key.