How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement CostCopying your spare key before you lose the last one can save you big cost. It's usually 2X-10X more costly to create a new key if you're down to just one.It's easy, cheap and easy to change the battery in your SAAB 9-3 remote. Here's how.Cost of a Key ReplacementThe 03-11 SAAB 9-3 is a great car however its ignition key can be prone to wear down. The case can become sticky and the buttons can be pushed out, which can be a major inconvenience when driving around. This is why it's important to replace the key fob as quickly as you notice any problems. This could save you a lot of money in the long run and is also more efficient than waiting.Replacing a SAAB key fob isn't difficult and you can do it yourself for about $100. saab replacement key 'll need to purchase a replacement shell for your key fob that's compatible with your vehicle as well as a new battery. You'll need to open up the case of the existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components, giving you an opportunity to replace the battery. Once you've completed this it's easy to put the new battery into place and then resynchronize the key fob with your car.SAAB keys that have the remote start system require particular attention due to a transponder chip which needs to be programmed to your specific vehicle. To accomplish this, you'll require a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your specific model of Saab. The tool will scan the code on the keys you have and then use this information to program your replacement key. If you don't have a spare key, this process is a bit more involved and may cost as much as $500 from the dealer.A good idea is to look for locksmiths who work on Saabs. They'll be able to make you a new key at a much cheaper price than the dealer. They also offer other services, like key duplication and replacement, making it possible to have a spare car key in the event that it gets lost or damaged.The majority of European cars made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems that rely on a microchip embedded into the key to identify and start your vehicle. This is why these kinds of keys are typically more expensive to duplicate than those without a chip. However, there are exceptions. VATS keys, for instance (which are mechanical and have a resistor in them) don't require programming and can be duplicated relatively inexpensively. The majority of BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches made after 2000 will require a dealer to assist with key duplication. These manufacturers do not allow their dealers to join NASTF. The group produces the tools used by other automotive locksmiths to make replacement keys.Cost of Replacement RemoteIt is vital to have an additional remote or key if you have a Saab with keyless entry. You can use it in case your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could reduce the cost of replacing the remote.The majority of car keys produced after 2000 can be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. These keys are usually stored in a tiny EEPROM that can only read by a computer specially designed for this purpose. If you require an alternative key for your car, you'll have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will cost you less than the locksmith.The Saab 9-3 is a stunning automobile and there are a number of them that are still in use around the world today. The ignition key is the main problem for these cars. The key is tiny and not a great design and it's known to fall out or get stuck easily. Many have been without a functioning key in a few years after purchasing their car.It is, however, possible to get an additional key for your SAAB and it is a simple process. The first step is to remove the emergency key from the SAAB 9-3. This is a straightforward process that you can do yourself and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. Be careful though, as if you push it too hard you could harm its electronics.You will then have to locate a shop that sells an OEM keycase replacement for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases readily, but if you know where to look you should have no difficulty finding one. Once you have found a replacement key case, you'll require it to be cut and programmed to your car.The process of obtaining a new key for your SAAB could be quite costly however it's worth it in the end. It's much less expensive than having to replace the entire vehicle, and it will save you a lot of time. If you only have one key that is working it is recommended to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when you're likely lose it and this can lead to an abundance of frustration and cost.