3 Reasons Commonly Cited For Why Your Saab 93 Key Fob Isn't Performing (And What You Can Do To Fix It)

3 Reasons Commonly Cited For Why Your Saab 93 Key Fob Isn't Performing (And What You Can Do To Fix It)

How to Replace a Saab 9-3 Key

The Saab 9-3 has an impressive attraction for drivers. It has good visibility and a powerful performance engine. It has a high safety rating.

However, it is crucial to ensure that you have at the very least two keys that are working for your vehicle. If you lose the only key, it could be costly to purchase a new one.

How to replace the ignition Key on the Saab 9-3

If the car key won't engage in the ignition and you want to replace it, you'll need to replace it. This guide will guide you through the steps to do it on the Saab 9-3. You will need a replacement key with a reprogrammable battery and a brand new key-fob case.

As opposed to earlier models, modern Saab cars use an electronic transponder inside the key-fob, instead of a physical key to unlock and start the car.  replacement saab 9-3 key  in the key-fob get worn out, and eventually aren't able to hold any charge. This is especially when you use the same key for the lock you have.

A professional locksmith can replace the battery fairly easily. If you have the right tools and patience you can do it yourself. The first step is to remove the key-fob. This is accomplished by inserting a flathead screwdriver in the slot that is located in the middle of the case. The plastic is brittle, and it is susceptible to being damaged.

When the case is opened then you can prepare the new key by combining the lower portion of the old key with the banana and transponder on the new key. This will ensure that the new key is properly connected to your CIM and could make a significant difference when replacing the sole key on your Saab 9-3.

How to replace the ignition Key on the Saab 900

If you don't have two keys, you'll have to remove the steering wheel and dashboard to access the ignition. Start by disconnecting the negative battery cable. After the battery has been disconnected, it is possible to remove the trim and dashboard pieces around the steering wheel. After the dashboard has been removed, you can insert an opening with a screwdriver behind the ignition switch.


The ignition cylinder houses the key lock, which could stop the car from starting if a key isn't in it. If your 900's ignition isn't working, look at the key to see if it's in the lock or snared into the ignition barrel. It's also a good idea to rotate your keys on a regular basis and keep them clean so that one doesn't become bent.

Saab cars differ from other cars because they don't have traditional keys made of metal. Instead, the car detects electronic signals coming from the key fob using an specialized microchip inside.

If you lose just one functioning key fob, your dealer will charge the cost of replacing your computer module (also called the CIM). We can however reprogram your existing computer EEPROM and prepare it to accept new keys without replacing it. You'll save 50% off the price of the dealer! We call it the SAAB Key PROGRAM. Find out more about it here!

How to Replace the Ignition Key on a Saab 9-5

The metal part of a traditional Saab key is easy to copy, and not much of a deterrent against vehicle theft. The real protection is the electronic component in the key-fob, which has a chip inside which recognizes your car once it is inserted into the ignition switch.

Saab has relied on the technology of this anti-theft system for more than a decade. It's not as effective as a physical lock on the door, but it does make the process of stealing your vehicle harder. Every Saab owner needs to keep an extra Saab key in their car.

The majority of new Saabs come with two keys, however they can be added by an dealer by using a handheld device known as a Tech-2. The cost can be under $400 for the transmitter+transponder (different than the metal key blade/shell that opens the doors and turns the ignition cylinder). The only exception to this rule is the NG 9-3 cars, that have more modern, more advanced features that require a key-fob.

The dealer will replace the CIM or TWICE module of those cars if the keys have been lost, and cost you top dollar for doing it. We can reprogram your computer's EEPROM to accept new keys, without replacing expensive modules.

How to replace the ignition Key on an XC90 Saab

If your SAAB 9-3 key fob begins having trouble turning the lock barrel, it may be time to replace it. The procedure is quite simple and you don't need to visit a dealership. You can do it at home with just a few basic tools.

The first step is to prepare the new key. Before you begin, turn off the anti-theft feature by placing blocks underneath your rear wheels and engaging your handbrake. Insert the key into the ignition and turn the key to the "on" position. This will activate the accessories, but it will not start the engine. Repeat this process five times, and then leave the key in the on position.

You'll then have to buy an additional case for your key fob. They can be found in most auto parts stores and are usually quite affordable. You can get them with or without electronics, depending on the model.

To open up the case, insert a flathead screwdriver inside the slot that is in the middle. Gently work it. After you have split the case, you will be able to access all the internal electronic components. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pull out the electronic components.