7 Tips To Make The The Most Of Your Saab 9-3 Key Replacement

· 4 min read
7 Tips To Make The The Most Of Your Saab 9-3 Key Replacement

How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3

Saab owners have to follow a series of special steps to install an additional ignition key. It requires dealer support using a handheld computer called Tech-2. Then the transponder must be replaced and a key must be purchased.

Rotate your keys to stop one from wearing out faster than the next. This will help to keep your keys in perfect condition.

Replacement Case

Contrary to the classic Saab keys of the past keys, the new key fobs contain electronics which makes it more difficult to copy. This has made theft of cars significantly more difficult than 20 years ago. It has also made it more costly to replace keys that were lost.

Every owner of a Saab 9-3 should have at least two functioning keys. It is costly to replace a lost key, as it requires replacing the CIM module, and reconfiguring the locking cylinders. Dealers usually charge between $100 and $200 to do this.

There are a few ways to avoid these expensive. Some parts providers will use the code of an extra key to cut a new metal blade for a fraction of the price of the dealer. The key must, however, be identical to the original one in order to function in your car.

You can also replace the case yourself by following these steps. You'll require an open-faced screwdriver and a lot of patience. With the screwdriver slowly pry the plastic apart and then separate the emergency key from the case. After the case is open take out all electronic components and place them in the new case. Be sure to put the correct key and badge back inside the case, too.

Replacement Battery

The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is an inexpensive part that can be quickly and easily replaced. This YouTube video by Cyclone Cyd demonstrates how you can replace the remote fob battery with only four steps. This tutorial will work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the procedure could differ slightly.

This button is usually placed close to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. This button is typically located on the back of your fob close to the Saab Logo. Use a flathead screwdriver to insert the screwdriver in the small hole in this button. This will be enough to allow you to open the fob's case so that you can replace the battery.

After the new battery CR1632 is in place, you can reassemble the remote key fob. You can then program it to your car. The entire process should not take more than a half hour at the most. It is a very simple process that does not require any special tools.

If you lose a key the procedure will be somewhat more complex however it can be accomplished. The dealer has to first verify the VIN of the vehicle and then order an additional TWICE module and key blade with the proper unique code. Then, they'll need to cut the replacement key and then program it with a brand new tool for programming called MDI.

Replacement Key Fob

The key fob contains an internal battery that is used to lock and unlock your car. The batteries have a lifespan and eventually expire. This is a typical issue that happens with all cars, and the good news is that you can change the batteries in most key fobs without having to replace the whole case. Amazon sells replacement fobs with all the electronic components in place. You can simply open the case and replace the batteries. It is important to keep in mind that you'll have to take out the emergency key first, and you can do this by putting an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head into the slot found in the middle of the case. The case will split once you move the screwdriver around it.

If you're looking to replace your keys, be sure to have a spare available. This will save you lots of money. If you have an additional key, ask the dealer to cut it in half and program it to your car. This is less expensive than buying a new key fob.

If you do not have a spare key car key, you can add another key to your car, but this requires a lot research and effort. Adding a second key costs several hundred dollars and also requires programming of the car's computer. Professionals can do this however, it's a costly option.

saab 9-3 key fob programming

In contrast to earlier Saab vehicles, the latest SAAB 9-3 models use an extremely sophisticated alarm system that is built on a key code. This means that should you lose only one functioning key, getting another one could be very expensive because the car needs to have a specific computer module fitted and also must be specially programmed to accept a new key. Even a dealer can charge hundreds of dollars to program the new key in the event that they are unable to complete the task.

Dealers will charge you the highest price to replace your car's computer (also called the CIM or SAAB twice) if you lose your sole working key. Instead, we can reprogram the EEPROM on your existing car computer, preparing it for a new key, which will save you more than 50% of the amount you spend at a dealer.


If you have owned a 9-3 from SAAB for a long time and you're aware of the ignition keys are not very durable. If your ignition key isn't working correctly, you should consider replacing it. They can become extremely sticky and the buttons have been known to fall off. Fortunately, replacing the ignition key isn't as complicated as it seems, and it can be done quickly using the appropriate tools.