Saab Key Programming
Saab cars produced from 1994 have an immobilizer system that is based on keys that are coded. A new transponder is required in order to enable the addition of a second key, and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer using a Tech2 diagnostic tool.
It can be costly. Always keep a spare set of keys available.
Transponder key
The transponder key is a key with an electronic chip that sends a signal to car when it is inserted into the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to determine whether it matches the one on the key. If the signals are the same, the car will unlock itself and start. This is a great way to avoid car theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.
Transponder keys could be an extremely popular accessory for cars, but they are not as safe as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal parts of a conventional key can be cut and copied but a transponder key is protected by an electronic chip. This chip contains a unique code programmed into the car's computer to identify it.
The car will recognize the Saab keyfob and permit it to be turned on. However, it can only do this if your key fob has a non-modified chip that has been programmed to match it. The car won't start in the event that the key has not been programmed to match.
It's essential to ensure that you have an extra key for your Saab. This is particularly important when you live in a rural location that has numerous car thieves. You can purchase a new key for your Saab by going to the dealership and not paying their high prices. You can have a replacement key made on the spot for less than half what you would pay at the dealership.
Key for Wired
Saab cars typically come with two keys when they are new. If you have only one, it is a good idea to get an additional key fob as soon as possible in case you lose it the car will require the replacement of a CIM unit and the locking cylinders need to be replaced. This can be costly especially if purchasing a used vehicle.
The next step is connecting the row and columns wires to your microcontroller. This is the most laborious component of the project and it will require a lot of soldering. It's not a standard way to do it, however, you should determine how to connect and solder each column and row. For this keyboard, there are five rows and 17 columns, which means there will be 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you need to connect.
After the columns and rows are joined It is now time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each pin on the key switch and then solder it. This will shield the pins on the key switch from current and keep them from being shorted. A diode lets current only flow in one direction. It is equipped with a visible indicator, a black band, that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, such as the Autel MaxiIM IMM608PRO and IM508, can help customers who are shopping or DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the procedure, making it simpler than replacing the computer inside the vehicle.
saab 9-3 key programming starting the battery
Most people keep a set of jumper cables in their trunks to use in an emergency, but jumping a battery on modern vehicles might not be the best idea. These vehicles are equipped with many electronic devices and computers that communicate with one another. A surge in voltage when the battery is connected to another could cause damage to these components, rendering your vehicle unable to drive.
Connect the cables to the vehicle that is working. Let it run for two minutes. Attach the red clip on the positive terminal of the good battery. (It will say "POS" or "+".) Attach the other end of the black cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface underneath the car's hood--the engine block is a good option. The black cable is not to be connected to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This could cause sparks, which would ignite gasoline in the engine compartment.
Once the cables are connected, you should start the car and let it run about five minutes. Then disconnect them in reverse. Keep in mind that the battery on the Saab 9-3 gets recharged while you drive, so it will take a while for the battery to come down. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key fob as soon as you can, because replacing the one that works requires the installation of a brand new computer module and special programming to convince it that the lost keys aren't trying to steal the car.
Replacement Case
Many Saab owners only have one key for their vehicle and if they lose it, key, it will cost them. It's costly to add an additional key and it requires replacing the CIM or TWICE in the case of older models. In the event of theft or other catastrophe it is recommended to have a spare key. Even it's "new" it will not function.
The dealer will charge you top dollar if you only have one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM in order to prepare it to accept an alternative key without replacing the whole system. This could save you a significant amount of money. It's less expensive rather than wait until you loose the only key.