Saab 9-5 Key Replacement Key Programming

Saab cars manufactured since 1994 utilize an immobilizer system based on key codes. Adding an extra key requires an entirely new transponder and programming. This is usually done at the dealer using a special Tech2 diagnostic tool.

The issue is that it can be very expensive. It is always advisable to keep an extra set of keys in your possession.

Transponder key

The transponder key is a key with an electronic chip that sends a signal back to the car when it is put into the ignition. The car will then check the signal to determine whether it is the same as the one on the key. If the signals are in sync the car will then unlock and begin. This is a great way to guard your car against theft.

Transponder keys could be a popular addition to automobiles, but they are not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. The metal component of a traditional keys can be easily cut and copied, whereas transponders are protected by an electronic chip that guards it. The chip has an unique code that is embedded into the car's computer to identify it.

When a Saab key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob if the device has a chip that is unmodified and has been programmed to match. Otherwise, the car will reject the key and not start.

It's essential to ensure that you have a spare key for your saab ignition key replacement. This is especially important when you live in a rural location where there are a lot of car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by going to the dealership and not paying their expensive costs. You can have a replacement key made on the spot at a fraction of the price you'd spend at dealerships.

Wired key

Saab cars typically come with two keys when they're new. If you only have one, you should get an additional key as soon as you can. This is because if you lose it and the car is damaged, it will require an entirely new CIM and the locking cylinders replaced. This can be costly, especially if you are purchasing a used vehicle.

The next step is to connect the wires of the column and row to the microcontroller. This is the most tedious component of the project and it will require a lot of soldering. There isn't a standard method to go about it, but you need to think about how to route and solder each column and row. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins to connect for this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 column.

After the columns and rows are soldered, it's the time to connect them to the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each pin on the key switch and solder it. This will shield the pins from current, preventing them from being shortened. A diode can only allow the current to flow in a single direction, and it has an indicator in black that indicates the direction current will flow.

Sanabria states that a number of the tools sold in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO or IM508 can assist customers shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer information. The tools connect to OBD ports and guide 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 an assortment of tools in their trunks to start a vehicle in the event of an emergency, but this might not be the best idea for cars with more modern technology. These vehicles are equipped with numerous electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage while a battery is hooked up to another can fry these components and leave your car undriveable.

Start the working vehicle and allow it to run for approximately two minutes before connecting the cables to the non-working one. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will read "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end to a clean unpainted metal surface underneath the hood of the disabled vehicle. The engine block is an excellent choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, since it could ignite an ignition source that ignites gasoline in the engine bay.

After the cables have been connected, you should begin the car and let it run for approximately five minutes. Then, disconnect the cables in reverse. The battery in your Saab 9-3 will be recharged while you drive. It takes a while for it to return to its original state. It's a good idea invest in a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the one that works requires the installation of a new computer module and a special program to convince it that your missing keys aren't in the process of trying to steal the car.

Replacement case

Saab owners usually only have one car key, and if that is lost, they'll be charged. The reason is that it's costly to add a new key, and it involves replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, in addition to programming. In the event of theft, or other catastrophe it is advisable to have a spare key. Even even if the key is "new", it won't work.

Most locksmiths aren't able to help if you have only one working key and the dealer will charge you for the cost of replacing the computer in your car to create a replacement. We can, however, reset and re-program the computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept the new key without having to replace the entire system. This can save you a lot of money. It's also a lot cheaper than waiting until you lose the only key.