Saab Key Programming

Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on codes for keys. A new transponder is required to allow the inclusion of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually handled by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The problem is that this could be quite costly. You should always keep a spare set of keys in your possession.

Transponder key

The transponder is a piece of key that has an electronic chip. The chip sends a signal when the key is placed into the ignition. The car checks to see whether the signal is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are the same it will open itself and begin. This is a great way to stop auto theft and keep your car safe from thieves.

Transponder keys are a popular feature in vehicles, but you must be aware that they aren't as secure as traditional metal keys. While the metal part of a traditional key could be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains an unique code that is programmed into a car's computer order to identify it.

The car will recognize the Saab keyfob, and allow it to turn on. The car will only recognize the key fob if the device has a chip that is unmodified and programmed to match. Otherwise, the car would reject the key and won't start.

It's essential to ensure that you have a spare key for your saab 900 key. This is particularly important when you live in a rural area where there are a lot of car burglars. You can get a brand new key for your Saab by visiting the dealership without paying pricey prices. In the majority of instances, you can get a new key created on-the-spot at a fraction of the price of what you'd pay at an auto dealer.

Wired key

Saab cars are usually delivered with two keys. If you only have one, it is an ideal idea to purchase an extra key fob as quickly as you can as if you lose it, your car will require a new CIM unit, and the locking cylinders will need to be replaced. This could be expensive, especially if you are purchasing a used vehicle.

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 great deal of soldering. There's no standard way to do it, but you should plan how to route and connect each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect.

After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to the key switches. Solder a diode to each key switch pin. This will shield the pins from current and prevent them from being shortened. The diode will only allow the current to flow in a single direction, and has a an indicator of black color that shows the direction in which current will flow.

Sanabria says that some of the tools available in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508 will assist customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it much easier than replacing the computer in the vehicle.

Jump-starting the battery

The majority of people have a set in their trunk to jump start a vehicle in an emergency, but it may not be a good idea for vehicles that are newer. These vehicles are equipped with numerous digital and computers that communicate with each other. A surge in voltage when batteries are connected to another could cause damage to the components and render your vehicle unusable.

Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Allow it to run for two minutes. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal on the battery that is good (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface under the disabled car's hood. The engine block is an excellent choice. Don't connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery because it could ignite a spark that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.

Once the cables are connected, turn on the disabled vehicle and allow it to run for around five minutes before disconnecting the cables in reverse order. Be aware that the battery in the Saab 9-3 gets recharged when you drive, and it could take a while for the battery to come back down again. It's a good idea invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the only functioning one requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that your missing keys are not trying to steal the car.

Replacement Case

Saab owners often only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's not inexpensive to buy a new key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, as well as programming. In the event of theft or any other catastrophe it is best to have a spare key. Even it's "new", it will not function.

The dealer will charge the highest dollar if you only have one working key. We can reset and Saab Key Programming reprogram the computer's EEEPROM to get it ready to accept a replacement key without having to replace the entire system. That can save you lots of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.