How to Reduce Your Saab Key Replacement CostCopying your spare key before you lose the previous one can save you big cost. When you only have one key, it's typically 2X-10X as expensive to make the new one.Changing the battery in your SAAB 9-3 key fob is easy, cheap and simple to do yourself. Here's how.Cost of Replacement KeyThe SAAB 9-3 03-11 is an excellent vehicle however, the ignition key is susceptible to wear out. The case may become sticky and the buttons can fall out, and this can be a major inconvenience when driving around. It's crucial to replace your key fob as soon as possible in the event of any issues. This could save you a lot of cash in the long run and is also more efficient than putting off repairs.You can replace a SAAB's key fob for less than $100. You'll need to buy an additional key fob shell that is compatible with your vehicle and an additional battery. You'll need to open up the case of your existing SAAB 9-3 key fob and carefully remove the electronic components to give you an opportunity to replace the battery. After removing the electronics you can replace the battery and then synchronize your key fob to your vehicle.SAAB keys that have remote start systems require particular care, since they have transponders that must be programmed for your specific vehicle. To do this, you'll need a dealer-grade tool called the Tech 2 or the equivalent for your model of Saab. This tool can analyze the codes from your existing keys and use this information to program your new key. This process can be more complicated and will cost you up to $500 if you don't already have a spare.It is a good idea to find an locksmith who works with Saabs. They can create keys at a lower cost than the dealer. saab ignition key replacement can also perform other services, such as key replacement and duplication, to ensure you have a backup key in case the original one is damaged or lost.Most European cars made after 2000 come with immobilizer systems, which rely on a microchip built into the key in order to recognize and start your car. These keys are more expensive to duplicate because they contain an embedded chip. There are exceptions. For example, VATS keys (which are mechanical but have a little resistor inside) do not require programming and are cheap to duplicate. However, the majority of post-2000 BMWs, Mercedes, Porsches and Saab vehicles will require dealers to duplicate their keys. This is because these brands do not allow dealers to participate in NASTF, which is the organization which makes the tools other automotive locksmiths make keys to replace for their customers.Cost of Replacement RemoteIt is vital to have an additional remote or key if you own a Saab with keyless entry. This will give you one in the event that your original key is lost or damaged. If you have insurance that covers key accessories it could lower the cost of replacing the remote.The majority of car keys manufactured after 2000 can be programmed by a dealer or locksmith. Most of the time, these keys are stored in a tiny EEPROM chip that can only be read by a specific computer designed specifically for this purpose. This means that if you require a new key for your vehicle you will have to visit the dealer. The good news is that the dealer will not cost as much as locksmiths.The Saab 9-3 is a beautiful automobile and there are a number of them still in operation all over the world. The ignition key is the main problem with these cars. The key is small and poorly designed, and it can easily fall out or get stuck. In fact, many people find themselves without a working key within a couple of years of owning their car.It's simple to find a spare key for your SAAB. First, take out the emergency key. This is a simple process that you can perform yourself, and it doesn't require any tools whatsoever. You must be careful, however when you push it too hard then you could harm the electronics inside it.Then, you'll need to locate a place that offers an OEM replacement keycase for your SAAB. You might not be able to find these cases readily, but if you know where to look, you should not have any problem finding one. Once you've found a new key case, you will need to have it cut and programmed to your vehicle.It's costly to get a new SAAB key however the cost is worth it. It's much less expensive than having to replace your entire vehicle and it will save you a lot of time. If you only have one key working it's best to replace it as soon as you can. You never know when it might be lost, and this can cause a lot of frustration and cost.