Saab Key Programming
Saab cars built since about 1994 feature an immobilizer mechanism based on coded keys. To add an additional key, you need a new transponder, as well as special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using the Tech2 diagnostic tool.
The issue is that it can be very expensive. This is why it is important to always have a spare key available.
Transponder key
The transponder key comes equipped with an electronic chip. It sends a signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The car then checks the signal to determine whether it matches the one in the key. If the signals match it will open and start. This is a great method to stop car theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.
Transponder keys may be an extremely popular accessory for cars, but they're not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. The metal component of a traditional key can easily be copied and cut, but transponders are protected by an electronic chip that protects it. The chip is a unique code that is inserted into the car's computer in order to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to turn on. The car will only recognize the key fob if it has an unmodified chip and programmed to match. The car won't start when the key isn't programmed to match.
It is important to have an extra Saab key. This is especially important especially if you reside in a rural location where there are a lot of car thieves. You can get a new key for your Saab by going to the dealership without paying their expensive prices. In most instances, you can get a new key created on-the-spot for less than half the cost you'd pay at a dealer.
Wired key
Saab cars are usually supplied with two keys. If you have only one, it is a good idea to get an additional key fob as quickly as you can as if you lose it, the car will require a new CIM unit, and the locking cylinders will have to be replaced. This could be expensive especially if you're buying a used car.
The next step is to connect the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the toughest aspect of the project and will require a lot of soldering. There is no standard method to do this, but it is important to think about the way you'll route and solder the rows and columns. There are 22 microcontroller wires as well as pins to connect for this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to key switches. To do this, place an inverter over each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins that are used for key switches from current and prevent them from being shorted. The diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It comes with a visual indicator of a black line that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that a few of the tools offered in auto parts stores, including the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508, can help customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools plug into OBD ports and help the customer through each step and make the process more straightforward than replacing the vehicle's computer.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks in case of emergency however, jumping a battery on modern vehicles may not be the best idea. These vehicles have many computers and digital devices that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected another battery could damage the components making your car unusable.
Connect the cables to the vehicle operating. Let it run for two minutes. 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 underneath the car's hood--the engine block is an excellent choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery as it could ignite an ignition spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected, turn on the vehicle that has been disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before disconnecting them in reverse order. The battery in the Saab 9-3 will charge as you drive. It will take some time for it to drop back down. You should purchase an additional key fob as soon as you can. Replacing the only one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their vehicle and if they lose that they'll be charged. The reason is that it's costly to add a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, and programming. In the event of theft or any other disaster, it is best to have a spare key. Don't buy a secondhand key even it's "new." Claimed- saab 9-3 key programming purchased from third-party sellers won't work and are almost guaranteed to fail at the critical moment.
The majority of locksmiths won't be able to help with a single working key, and the dealer will charge you high fees to replace the computer in your vehicle to make a new replacement. We can reset and reprogram the EEEPROM of your computer to get it ready to accept a replacement key without having to replace the entire system. That can save you a lot of money. It's less expensive rather than wait until you lose your only key.