How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement CostMaking copies of your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you huge money. If you only have one key, it's usually 2X-10X as costly to make an original one.It's easy, cheap and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.Cost of Replacement KeyThe 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is an excellent car however, its ignition key is susceptible to wearing down. The case may become sticky and the buttons could fall out. This could be a discomfort while driving. This is why it's recommended to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This could save you lots of money in the end and is more beneficial than waiting.You can change the SAAB's key fob on your own for less than $100. You'll need to purchase an appropriate shell replacement for your key fob, which is compatible with your car as well as an entirely new battery. To replace the battery, you'll have take the electronics off of your SAAB 9-3 keyfob. After you've done this you can easily put the new battery into place and then resynchronize the key fob with your car.SAAB keys with remote start system need special attention since they feature an embedded transponder chip which needs to be programmed to the particular vehicle. You'll need the dealer-grade Tech 2 tool or its equivalent for your Saab model to accomplish this. This tool can analyze the codes from your existing keys and use the information to program your new key. This process could be more complex and can cost up to $500 if your don't have a spare.It is best to locate locksmiths who work with Saabs. They'll be able of making you a new key at less than the dealer. They also offer other services such as key duplication and replacement so you'll have a spare car key in the event yours gets damaged or lost.Most European automobiles manufactured after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built inside the key to start and recognize your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate as they contain a chip. However, there are exceptions. For instance, VATS keys (which are mechanical but contain a small resistor value within) don't require programming and are inexpensive to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require an agent to duplicate the keys. This is because these brands do not permit dealers to participate in NASTF which is the group that produces the tools other locksmiths in the automotive sector use to create keys replacements for their customers.Cost of a New RemoteIf you own a Saab car that has keys-less entry systems, it is important to have a spare remote or key. This way you can have one in the case that your original key is lost or broken. The cost of a replacement remote can be quite costly, and if you have an insurance policy that provides key add-on coverage, this could help lower the cost. saab 9-3 key programming for cars manufactured after 2000 are programmed by the dealer or a locksmith. They are typically stored in a small EEPROM that can only read by a computer designed for this purpose. If you need an alternative key for your vehicle, you'll need to visit the dealer. The good news is the dealer will cost you less than the locksmith.Saab 9-3s are gorgeous cars and many of them are still in use today. The ignition key is the main problem in these cars. The key is small and has a poor design, and it's known to be lost or stuck easily. Many have been lacking a key that worked within just a few years of buying their car.Luckily, you can get an additional key for your SAAB and it can be done fairly quickly. The first thing to do is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is an easy process that you can carry out yourself and it does not require any tools at all. You should be cautious when you push it too hard you could harm its electronic components.You will then need to find a location that will provide an OEM replacement key case for your SAAB. You may not be able find these cases easily, however if you know where to look, you should have no trouble finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you will need to cut it and programmed to your vehicle.The process of getting an entirely new key for your SAAB can be expensive however, it's worth it in the end. It's much less expensive and faster than having replace the entire vehicle. If you're only left with one key that works, it's best to get it replaced as soon as you can. You never know when you're likely to lose it, and this could cause a lot of frustration and cost.