Blog entry by Edgar Copeley
saab 9-3 key Key Programming
Saab cars that were built prior to 1994 have an immobilizer system built on coded keys. A new transponder is required to allow the addition of an additional key, and special programming. This is usually done by the dealer, using a specially-designed Tech2 diagnostic tool.
This can be expensive. It is always advisable to keep a spare set of keys on hand.
Transponder key
The transponder is a piece of key that has an electronic chip. This chip sends out a signal when the key is inserted in the ignition. The car then analyzes the signal to determine whether it matches that of the key. If both signals match, the car will unlock itself and begin. This is a great way How To Open A Saab 93 Without A Key deter car theft and keep your vehicle secure from thieves.
Transponder keys could be a popular addition to cars, but they're not as secure as traditional keys made of metal. While the metal component of a traditional key can be cut and copied, a transponder is protected by an electronic chip. The chip contains a unique code that is programmed into a car's computer order to identify it.
When a saab 93 replacement key key fob is used the car recognizes it and allows it to turn on. The car can only recognize the key fob when it has an unmodified chip and has been programmed to match. If not, the car will reject the key and refuse to start.
It is crucial to have a spare Saab key. This is especially true if you live in a rural area where there are numerous car thieves. You can obtain a replacement key for your Saab by going to the dealership and not paying their pricey cost. You can get an original key made on the spot for less than half the price you'd pay at the dealership.
Key for Wired
Saab cars usually come with two keys when they are new. If you only have one, it is a good idea to get an additional key fob as soon as possible since 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 particularly if you are purchasing a used car.
The next step is connecting the wires of columns and row to your microcontroller. This is the most difficult part of the project and will require a good deal of soldering. There isn't a standard way to accomplish this, however it is essential to determine the way you'll route and solder the columns and rows. There are 22 microcontroller wires and pins that you can connect to this keyboard. It includes 5 rows and 17 columns.
After the columns and rows are soldered together then it's time to connect the key switches. To do this you must place a diode over each pin of the key switch and solder it. This will protect the pins from current, preventing them from being cut off. A diode allows current to only flow in only one direction. It comes with a visual indicator with a black band that indicates which direction current will flow.
Sanabria says that some of the tools that are sold in auto parts stores, like the Autel MaxiIM IM608PRO and IM508, can help customers shopping or DIY users to program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data. The tools connect to the OBD port and guide the customer through the process, making it more simple than replacing the computer in the vehicle.
Jump-starting the battery
A lot of people keep a set in their trunk to jump-start their vehicle in an emergency, but this might not be the best idea for newer cars. These vehicles are equipped with numerous digital and computer systems that communicate with one another. A voltage surge while a battery is hooked up to another one could damage these components, rendering your car unable to drive.
Start the vehicle that is working and let it run for about two minutes before connecting the cables to the disabled one. Attach the red clip to the positive terminal of the good battery (it will have "POS" or "+" on it). Attach the other end of the black cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface underneath the car's hood--the engine block is an ideal choice. Do not connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the dead battery because this could cause an ignition that ignites the gasoline in the engine bay.
Once the cables are connected the vehicle that is disabled and let it run for approximately five minutes before you disconnect them in reverse order. The battery in your saab key battery 9-3 will recharge while you drive. It will take some time for it to drop back down. You should purchase another key fob as soon as possible. Replacing the original one that works requires the installation and programming of a brand new computer chip.
Replacement case
Many Saab owners have only one key for their car and if they lose that key, it will cost them. The reason is that it's expensive to replace a key, and it requires replacing the CIM (Column Integration Module) or TWICE on older models, plus programming. It is recommended to have a second key in the event of theft or other disaster and the best option is to purchase a second key as soon as you can. Even even if the key is "new", it won't work.
The dealer will charge you the highest dollars if you only have one working key. We can, however, reset and re-program your computer's EEPROM to prepare it to accept a new key without replacing the entire system. That can save you a significant amount of money. It's also cheaper than waiting until you lose your one key.