How to Replace the Replacement Key Battery For the Saab 9-3
Saab owners have a unique procedure to add the second key. It requires dealer support using the handheld computer known as Tech-2. Then a new key as well as transponder have to be purchased and then programmed to the car.
It is a good idea to rotate your keys in order that one does not wear out more quickly than the other. This will help to keep your keys in perfect condition.
Replacement Case
The new key fobs are not like the older Saab keys. They have electronics that make them difficult to copy. This has made stealing cars significantly more difficult than it was twenty years ago. However, it has also made replacing lost keys a much more expensive task.
Saab 9-3 owners must have two keys that work. If one gets lost, it costs a lot of money to replace it in the car, as it requires replacing the CIM module, and then reprogramming the locking cylinders. Dealers charge between $100 and $200 to do this.
There are ways to avoid these high costs. Some parts suppliers will use the code of an extra key to cut a new metal blade at a fraction what the dealer charges. The key must be exactly the identical to the original one for it to work in your vehicle.

Follow these steps to replace the case. You'll need a flathead and patience. Utilizing the screwdriver, slowly break the plastic and then separate the emergency key from the case. Once the case is open take out all electronic components and place them in the new case. Make sure you insert the correct key and badge into the case.
Replacement Battery
The Saab 9-3 replacement battery is an inexpensive component that can be quickly and easily replaced. This YouTube video by Cyclone Cyd shows how to replace the battery of the remote fob with just four steps. This tutorial will work with any modern Saab key fob. However, the process may differ slightly.
The first step is to locate the button that releases the backup key within the fob. It's usually close to the Saab logo on the back of the fob. Then take an screwdriver with a flat head to insert into the tiny hole in this button. This should be enough to open the case so that you can replace the battery.
After you have installed the battery CR1632, you are able to restore the remote key fob. Then, you can program it into your car. The whole process should take more than an hour or less. This is a very easy procedure that doesn't require special tools.
If you lose your key, the process is somewhat more complex, but it can still be accomplished. The dealer must determine the VIN of the car and then order a replacement key blade and TWICE module, both with the proper unique code. The dealer will then need to program the key using MDI, a new software tool.
Replacement Key Fob
The key fob comes with a battery that is used to lock and unlock your car. Batteries are able to last for a short time and will eventually die. It is a common problem with all cars. The good news is that you can change the batteries in most key fobs without having to replace the entire case. You can buy replacement fobs on Amazon that come with all the electronics already installed, so you can simply open the case and replace the old batteries. It is important to keep in mind that you'll have to remove the emergency key first, and you can do this by inserting the small screwdriver flathead into the slot located in the middle of the case. Use the screwdriver to move around the case, and it will split open, making it simple to remove.
When you are ready to replace the keys ensure you have spare keys, as this will reduce the total cost by a substantial amount. If saab car keys have an additional key, you can request the dealer to cut it and program it to your vehicle. This is a lot less expensive than purchasing a new key fob.
If you don't have a spare, it is possible to add a second key to your car, but this requires a lot of research and effort. The cost for adding a second key is a few hundred dollars, and also requires programming of the car's computer. Professionals can do this however, it's a costly option.
Replacement Ignition
The new SAAB 9-3 features an alarm system that is more sophisticated built on a keycode. If you lose your primary key, it may be costly to get another one since the car needs to have a specific computer installed and also be programmed to accept a new key. The majority of locksmiths aren't able to do this and a dealer will charge several hundred dollars to program the new key!
If you've lost the only working key, a dealer will repair the computer in your car (known as the CIM or SAAB TWICE) in order to make the replacement, and will charge you the highest price for it. We can reprogramme the existing EEPROM inside your car's computer to make it prepared for a new key. This will save you more than 50% of what you would pay at an auto dealer.
If you have owned a 9-3 from SAAB for an extended period of time, you know that the ignition keys aren't very durable. If your ignition key is not functioning properly, it is time to look into replacing it. They can become sticky and the buttons are known to fall off. It's not so difficult as it may seem to replace the ignition key. With the proper tools, it can be accomplished in a short time.