Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced since 1994 utilize an immobilizer system that is based on key codes. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of an additional key, as well as special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that this could be extremely expensive. You should always keep an extra set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a key that has an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is put in the ignition. The car then checks to see whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals match it will open and start. This is an excellent way to safeguard your car from theft.
Transponder keys can be an extremely popular accessory for automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional metal keys. The metal portion of a traditional key is easily cut and copied, however the transponder is protected by an electronic chip that guards it. The chip contains a unique code which is programmed into a car's computers in order 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 your key fob has an unmodified chip that has been programmed to match it. If not, the car will refuse to accept the key and will not start.
It's essential to ensure that you have a spare key for your Saab. This is especially true especially if you reside in a rural area, where there are numerous car thieves. The good news is that it's possible to find a new key for your Saab without needing to visit an auto dealer and pay the high prices they ask. In the majority of instances, you can get an original key made on the spot for less than half the cost of what you'd pay at a dealer.
Key for Wired
Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you have only one, it is an ideal idea to purchase an extra key fob as soon as possible as if you lose it, the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This could be expensive especially if buying a used car.
The next step is to connect the wires for columns and rows to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a large amount of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, but you must consider how you will route and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are 5 rows and 17 columns. So there will be 22 microcontroller pins and wires to connect.
After saab replacement key programming and rows are soldered, it's time to connect them to key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each key switch pin and then solder it. This will shield the pins of the key switch from current and prevent them from being shorted. A diode only allows the current to flow in a single 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 available at auto parts storeslike the Autel MaxiIM IM608 PRO and IM508 -- can aid shop customers or DIY customers in certain instances replace keys in the program and restore lost immobilizer data, Sanabria says. The tools plug into the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it much easier than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks for emergency situations however, jumping a battery on modern vehicles may not be the best choice. They have numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A voltage spike when the battery is connected to another battery could fry these components and render your car 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 battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface beneath the hood of the damaged vehicle. The engine block is a great choice. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could result in a spark, which would ignite the gasoline that is in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, turn on the vehicle that has been disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before you disconnect the cables in reverse order. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged as you drive. It will take some time for it to recharge again. It is a good idea to purchase a spare fob as soon as you can, since replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and special programming to convince the system that your lost keys are not trying to steal the car.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their vehicle and if they lose it, the cost will be. The reason for this is that it's costly to buy a new key, and that involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It's best to have a backup key in the event of theft or other disaster and the most effective way is to purchase a second key as soon as you can. Don't purchase a used key even it's "new." Keys that are claimed-new from a second-hand store will not perform and are almost certain to fail in the most critical moment.
The dealer will charge you top dollars if you only have one working key. However, we can reset and reprogram the computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept the new key without having to replace the entire system. That can save you a significant amount of money. It's also much less expensive than waiting until you lose your sole key.