Losing all your car keys is a frustrating experience, and if you own a 2004 Saab 9-3, you might be facing the daunting task of getting back on the road. Many Saab owners find themselves lost in a maze of complicated and often expensive solutions. After extensive research and navigating through fragmented information across various online forums, we’ve compiled a straightforward, cost-effective guide to help you reprogram your 2004 Saab 9-3 key fob when all keys are lost. This guide focuses on a method that avoids unnecessary part replacements and complex programming procedures, getting you back into your Saab with minimal hassle.
Here’s a step-by-step process to reprogram your 2004 Saab 9-3 key fob after losing all your keys:
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Disconnect the Battery: Begin by disconnecting your Saab 9-3’s battery. It’s crucial to leave it disconnected throughout the entire reprogramming process to ensure safety and prevent electrical issues.
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Remove the CIM (Column Integration Module): The next step is to remove the CIM. This module is essential for key recognition and vehicle security. If you are unsure how to remove it, there are helpful video tutorials available online. Specifically, searching on YouTube for “Saab 9-3 CIM removal” will provide visual guidance. When removing the CIM, pay close attention to marking the coil spring locations as demonstrated in any video tutorial to aid in reinstallation.
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Professional CIM Reprogramming Service: Once the CIM is removed, you’ll need to utilize a professional reprogramming service. A cost-effective and highly-rated option can be found through eBay seller keyworksva-com. As of March 14, 2022, they offered a service for around $180 (negotiable), which includes reprogramming your CIM and providing one new key fob. Additional fobs were available for approximately $50 each. While you are responsible for shipping the CIM to them, return shipping is typically included in the service cost. It’s worth noting that while this guide mentions a specific eBay seller due to positive past experiences, there are other reputable services available online. Always research and choose a service with strong reviews and a proven track record in Saab CIM reprogramming.
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Wait for Service and Return: After sending your CIM to the service provider, allow time for them to reprogram it and ship it back to you. Turnaround times can vary, but in the experience detailed in the original post, the CIM was returned within two days of receipt.
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Reinstall the CIM: Upon receiving your reprogrammed CIM, carefully reinstall it back into your 2004 Saab 9-3. If needed, re-watch the CIM removal video to ensure correct reinstallation, paying attention to your coil spring markings.
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Reconnect the Battery: Once the CIM is securely back in place, reconnect your Saab 9-3’s battery.
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Key Fob Synchronization: The synchronization process differs slightly depending on whether you have the original key blade or not.
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If You Have the Key Blade: If you still possess the metal key blade that originally went with your key fob, the synchronization process is simpler and avoids the need for specialized tools.
a. Manually unlock your Saab 9-3 from the interior by lifting the manual lock tabs on the door. This precaution prevents the alarm from triggering in the next steps.
b. Ensure the driver’s side door is closed. Insert the key blade into the driver’s side door lock. Lock and then unlock the door using the blade.
c. Open the driver’s door and insert the key fob into the ignition. The Saab’s Immobilizer System Module (ISM) should now recognize the fob. Turn the key to the “ON” position, wait for approximately 3 seconds, and then turn to start the engine. -
If You Do Not Have the Key Blade: If you’ve lost the entire key, including the blade, the process becomes slightly more complex. You will likely need a Tech 2 scanner to synchronize the new key fobs. You have a couple of options: you can tow your Saab 9-3 to a qualified mechanic or Saab dealership equipped with a Tech 2 scanner, or you might be able to find an independent Saab enthusiast or mechanic who owns one. Online Saab forums, like SaabCentral, can be valuable resources for finding tips and advice related to using a Tech 2 scanner for key synchronization. Note that while some older forum threads may mention replacing the ISM, current information suggests that reprogramming the CIM, as described in this guide, should resolve the issue without ISM replacement.
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We hope this guide simplifies the process of 2004 Saab 9-3 Key Fob Programming when all keys are lost. Dealing with lost car keys can be incredibly stressful, and our aim is to make this experience as straightforward and cost-effective as possible for you. By following these steps, you can avoid more expensive and complicated solutions, and get your Saab 9-3 back on the road quickly.
