Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 come with an immobilizer system based on coded keys. The addition of a key requires a new transponder and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The problem is that this can be very expensive. You should always keep an extra set of keys available.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key that has an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is inserted into the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal matches with the one on the key. If the signals match it will unlock and begin. This is a great method to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys are a popular addition to cars, but they are not as safe as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key can be cut and copied however, a transponder is secured by an electronic chip. This chip has a unique code that is embedded 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. However, it is only able to do this if the key fob is unmodified and has a chip that has been programmed to match it. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and not start.
It is important to have an extra Saab key. This is particularly true especially if you live in a rural region that has numerous car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership, without having to pay their expensive prices. You can get an original key made on the spot for less than half the price you'd spend at an auto dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars usually come with two keys when they're new. If you have only one, you should purchase an extra key as soon as you can. This is because if you lose it and the car is damaged, it will require a new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This could be expensive especially if purchasing a used vehicle.
The next step is to wire the row and column wires to the microcontroller. This is the toughest aspect of the project and will require lots of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, however, you should plan how to route and solder each column and row. For saab 9-3 key not accepted contact service , there are 5 rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
Once the rows and columns are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. To do this, place a diode across each key switch pin and then solder it. This will shield the pins from current, preventing them from being shortened. A diode only allows the flow of current to be in one direction, and it comes with a the black band as a visual indicator that indicates the direction current will flow.
Some of the tools available at auto parts stores -- such as the Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro and IM508 -- may assist customers at the shop or DIY customers in certain instances create replacement keys and restore the lost immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. The tools connect to the OBD port and automatically guide the user through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jumpstarting the battery
Most people keep an item in their trunk to jump-start their vehicle in an emergency, but it might not be a good idea for cars with more modern technology. These vehicles are equipped with a number of computers and digital devices that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage while a battery is hooked up to another battery could fry these components and render your vehicle unable to drive.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean, unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of your disabled car. The engine block is a great alternative. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could cause sparks, which could ignite gasoline in the engine compartment.
After the cables have been connected, you should begin the car and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged while you drive. It takes a while for it to return to its original state. You should invest in an additional key fob as soon as you can. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement Case
Saab owners usually have only one car key, and if that is lost, they will be charged. The reason for this is that it's expensive to purchase a new key, and that involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. In the event of theft or any other calamity it is recommended to have a spare key. 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 you high fees to replace the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can reset and reprogram the computer's EEEPROM to make it ready to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. This can save you a significant amount of money. It's much cheaper than wait until you lose the only key.