Lost your Saab 9-5 or 9-4x key fob or need to program a new one? For Saab 9-5 (2010-2011) and 9-4x (2011-2012) models, you might be relieved to know that you don’t always need specialized equipment like a Tech 2 or MDI to add a new key fob. In many cases, you can perform a manual key fob programming procedure right at home. This guide from keyfobprog.com will walk you through the steps, making the Saab Key Fob Replacement process straightforward and saving you a trip to the dealership.
Manual Key Fob Programming for Saab 9-5 & 9-4x: Step-by-Step Instructions
This manual method is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to add a new key fob without erasing your existing, programmed key fobs. This is particularly helpful if you’ve simply added another driver to your vehicle or want a spare key. Remember, this procedure assumes you already have at least one working, recognized key fob.
Important Notes Before You Begin:
- One Recognized Key Required: To start this procedure, you must have at least one functional, already programmed key fob for your Saab.
- Maximum Key Fobs: A single Saab vehicle can be programmed to recognize up to 8 key fobs.
- Adds Keys Only: This process is specifically for adding new key fobs. It will not erase or invalidate previously programmed key fobs. Therefore, any lost or stolen key fobs that were previously programmed will still operate the vehicle.
- Mechanical Key Match: The new key fob you are programming must have a mechanical key that is cut to match your vehicle’s ignition and door locks.
Step-by-Step Programming Guide:
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Prepare Recognized Key(s): Place your currently working and recognized key fob(s) inside the vehicle’s cup holder. This ensures they are recognized and available for the system to verify.
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Mechanical Key Insertion and Door Lock Procedure: Take the mechanical key portion of your new key fob. Go to the driver’s side door of your Saab. Insert the mechanical key into the door lock cylinder located on the exterior driver’s door handle. Turn the key to the “unlock” position five times in rapid succession, within a 10-second timeframe.
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DIC Message Confirmation: After successfully completing step 2, observe the Driver Information Center (DIC) display on your dashboard. It should display a message confirming that the system is “Ready For Remote #2, 3, 4, or 5” (the number will depend on how many keys are already programmed). This message indicates that the vehicle is now in key fob programming mode.
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Key Pocket Placement: Locate the key pocket inside your Saab. This is typically found inside the center console storage area, often next to the cup holder. Take your new key fob and insert it fully into this key pocket. Important: Ensure the key fob is completely inserted. Large key rings or other obstructions might prevent full insertion and hinder the programming process. Remove anything that might block the fob from seating properly in the pocket.
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Ignition Mode Switch Activation: Once the new key fob is securely placed in the key pocket, press the ignition mode switch (start button).
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Programming Confirmation: When the new key fob is successfully learned and programmed, the DIC will update to indicate it is “Ready to program the next key.” This confirms that the current key fob has been successfully added.
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Repeat for Additional Keys (If Needed): If you have more key fobs to program, remove the currently programmed key from the key pocket and repeat steps 3 through 5 for each additional key fob.
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Exit Programming Mode: After you have programmed all desired key fobs, press and hold the ignition mode switch for approximately 5 seconds. This action will exit the key fob programming mode.
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Test Your New Key Fob: Remove the newly programmed key fob from the key pocket and press the “unlock” button on the fob to test its functionality. Verify that it successfully unlocks your Saab. Also, test all other functions like lock, panic button, and remote start if applicable to your vehicle and key fob.
By following these steps, you can successfully perform a Saab key fob replacement and programming procedure manually. This method offers a convenient alternative to dealership programming, especially when you need to quickly add a new key fob to your Saab 9-5 or 9-4x. For more automotive key fob programming guides and solutions, visit keyfobprog.com.
