Date: Thu, 31 Jul 2003 03:24:26 GMT From: Steve Crowe <scrowenopsamink.net> Subject: Re: Replacement key
On 30 Jul 2003 13:59:06 -0700, brian_dunkinnopsamail.com (Brian) wrote: >I recently lost the only key for my 2000 SAAB 9 3. I'm in Toronto, >Canada. >I provided the dealer with by VN and for $40 they will provide me with >my key code. (It's presently written in the manual, locked inside the >car.) >Then for another $80 and a 3-4 day wait, they'll provide me with a key >that will open the car but not start it. And I have to add $35 for a >plastic cover. >They want me to tow the car to the dealer and pay $1,400 plus 3 hours >labour to install a new computer and re-program everything. >I feel I'm being ripped off. Surely if they have the key code, a new >key can be re-programmed without all this expense. >Does anyone have any experience or some good advise they can share or >know of people who can help me with this? >Thanks Brian, Sorry, but they are right. The 9-3 and 9-5 use a two part system to prevent unauthorized starting of the car. One part is the mechanical lock. This part uses a key which can be cut to order based on the key code. The key will unlock the car and even turn the ignition switch, but the car will not start. This is do to the second part of the system, the electronic lock. The original keys contain a transponder in the plastic handle. There is an antenna that surrounds the ignition switch. During the starting process, the antenna is energized and emits a EM pulse that "pings" the transponder. The transponder responds with an unique signal that is processed by the anti-theft control unit. The control unit determines if the signal is valid for the car and then must concur with the instrument cluster and Trionic Engine Control unit which both have the valid signals stored in them. This communcation occurs over two different networks in the car, the I-bus and P-bus. If all three agree the signal is valid, then Trionic will allow the fuel pump to run and DI to operate. Additional transponders up to 4 total can be programmed to the car, but a valid transponder MUST be used to turn on the car so that the TECH II can communicate with the anti-theft system. Bottom line is that you MUST have at least one working transponder to program the car to accept other transponders. If you have no working key/transponders then you WILL have replace the anti-theft control unit and integrate it into the car with a TECH II. The new anti-theft control unit will come with one or two transponders that are preprogrammed to it. These transponders are put with your new keys and your are ready to bring your car back up. I recommend that all 9-3, 9-5 owners have at least one spare key. $100.00 or so would sound real cheap right about now. FWIW, Saab is not the only one to use schemes like this. I currently work on MB. 98-99 MLs will need a AAM module, DAS module and ME Control unit plus the keys when all keys are lost.. I have heard Toyota is about $2400.00 if you lose the master key. Good luck, Steve Crowe, ex-Saab Master Tech scrowenopsamink.net Harpers Ferry, WV
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