Replacing your key fob for a 2007 Saab 9-3 might seem straightforward, but like many Saab owners, I learned that the process isn’t always as simple as it appears, especially when trying to save a few bucks. My experience highlights a common pitfall and offers some advice if you’re looking to get a new key programmed for your Saab.
When my original key fob for my 2003 Saab 9-3 started showing its age – the buttons were completely worn out after years of use – I naturally looked for a replacement. Thinking I was being smart, I turned to eBay to find a used key fob. It seemed like a great way to save money compared to dealership prices, which I remembered being quite high in the past.
However, this turned out to be a false economy. I took my eBay purchase to Saturn Saab Hummer, a dealership in Ontario, Canada, hoping they could program it to work with my car. Unfortunately, they informed me that the key fob was still programmed to its original vehicle and, crucially, could not be reprogrammed for my Saab 9-3. This was a setback and a waste of time.
The dealership offered me a new, blank key fob and programming service for a reasonable price of $60 CAD for the fob itself and another $60 CAD for the programming. While the initial attempt with the eBay key cost me an unnecessary $60 for labor, the price for a brand new, correctly programmed key from the dealer was actually quite competitive, especially considering the peace of mind. I had been quoted $150 for a similar service in the past, making this deal seem even better.
The lesson here is clear: be cautious when buying used key fobs online, particularly from sites like eBay. While the temptation to save money is strong, you might end up with a key that’s unusable for your 2007 Saab 9-3 and out of pocket for the programming attempt. In the end, going to a reputable dealership or a specialized shop that quotes around $45 CAD for programming if you source your own new key, might be the most efficient and cost-effective solution for your Saab 9-3 key fob programming needs. As for my eBay key, I’m keeping it only for the internal chip, hoping it might be useful if the buttons on my new key wear out again – a small consolation for a lesson learned.
