Lost only key for Saab 93 2L turbo swooped key ignition and cim unit from scrap car remote working but getting steering lock malfunction message and won't start wot now swop steering column ???? Help

Hi Doug...

Not currently all up on Saabs...
Many years since I worked on one...

but reading the owners manual (ALL 288 Pages)... has convinced me your configuration is fairly close to the BMW ...
(with which I am FAMILIAR).

Even though you have a "chip" key...
the lock still ought to work manually.

Battery NOT your trouble...
That would definitely give you OTHER problems
(specifically key "NOT RECOGNIZED").

On other cars ... I have experienced a similar issue caused by the steering column holding the lock lever from releasing:
If the wheels are turned against a curb... or hard in any direction... TURN THE WHEEL HARD (just "hard"... as in steering... no Samsonite Gorilla here) in THAT SAME DIRECTION and try to wiggle the key in the lock as you attempt to turn it... then try against that direction... again "HARD".

Failing that... jack up the front of the car until you can see some free-play in the steering wheel... by pushing the front tire back and forth... then try the key.

Hope this helps


Saab Owner Manuals Factory Warranty features and options and maintenance...

The doors work on a different system to the ignition. The doors will unlock but the ignition key immobiliser is specific to each car. That means the car won't recognise the key. Replacing the lost key would have been the easiest fix even though it costs a lot. All you need is the vehicle details for your car. I was quoted £200 for a replacement Vauxhall key. Cheaper than replacing steering columns and associated electronics.
Your only other option is to take it to a Saab Dealer/specialist and pay the 'silly money' for them to reset and link the replacement scrap car key to your car.

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
Bulletin Nbr. 831-2429
Date: January 2004
Market: all
Remote control does not work
Cars affected
- 9-3 (9440) 4D M03-M04 within Vehicle Identification Number range 31045482 - 41021353
- 9-3 (9440) CV M04 with column integration module (CIM) 433.92 MHz, within Vehicle Identification Number range 46000001 - 46006859
- 9-3 (9440) CV M04 with ESP and column integration module (CIM) 433.92 MHz, within Vehicle Identification Number range 46000001 - 46006710
- 9-3 (9440) CV M04 with column integration module (CIM) 315 MHz, within Vehicle Identification Number range 46000001 - 46009855
- 9-3 (9440) CV M04 with ESP and column integration module (CIM) 315 MHz1 within Vehicle Identification Number range 46000001 - 46009843
Background
Under certain circumstances the remote control receiver, which is located in the CIM, may cease to function. The software in the column integration module (CIM) must be updated so that the remote control operation achieves full functionality.
In the case of customer complaint the following procedures must be carried out.
Symptom description
The car cannot be locked or unlocked using the remote control.
Procedure
Before any action is taken, check if the deficient functionality of the remote control receiver is due to incorrect software:
^ Check if the fault is due to the loss of synchronisation between the remote control and the car.
- Insert the key into the ignition for at least 2 seconds.
- Does the remote control work?
YES: Updating the software, in accordance with this TSB, does not rectify the fault.
NO: Continue to check as follows
^ Remove fuse F2 from the dashboard electrical centre. Wait for at least 5 seconds.
^ Fit fuse F2.
^ Does the remote control work?
NO: Updating the software, in accordance with this TSB, does not rectify the fault.
YES: Update the software in the CIM.

well it has happened to me quite a few times and all you need to do is when it comes take the key out, put the key in but dont turn it, youll hear it trying to unlock, pull(turn) the steering wheel to help it unlock. when it releases should have no prob. its not a malfunction just need to assist it as with many cars that have steering wheel locks.

this means oyur oringinal key has an immobilizer in it it has chip in it and car will not start unless you have original key you must get one from dealer only way or lock smith good luck

lostsaabkeys.com is the way to go......they're very fast and convenient. You only need to unscrew the driver's seat whch require and allywrench and take out the twice module send it to him and when they get it.......they can do it and send it off to you expressing shipping. So it would literally take only a week to get everything done. I love the key to my 02 saab 9-5 and i asked the dealer for the rplacement and he said $1200. But lostsaabkeys.com only cost 600 dollars. they very good and prompt and recomment it to anyone with a saab car.

Hello, if you're still having this problem it sounds like it is most likely your ignition "switch" itself. This is generally a $300.00 fix at your local Saab dealer however you can replace it yourself with a moderate level of mechanical knowledge. I'm assuming you have the encoded blocky non traditional looking "key" with a backup "traditional" key stored within. This key contains a code which is picked up by the CIM releasing the steering lock and allowing you to turn the key and start the vehicle. In Saabs infinate wisdom?? They found it appropriate to place this delicate electrical device within inches of a cup holder and high probability of being drenched in whatever your beverage at the time happens to be (usually coffee or soda). This can cause failure of the unit, requiring replacement. Are you able to hear the "click" (steering lock release) when you put the key in? Does your message center display any information? "Steering lock malfunction" "key not recognized"? I'm willing to bet that the problem is likely in this area. I do have a used (in good working condition and in nice shape) spare ignition switch and key if you determine that this is what you need. You may contact me at [email protected] or take your car to your local Saab dealer to be diagnosed.

I have a 2003 Saab 9-3 and had then same thing happen and my battery cable just was not connected good enough. Hope this helps.

i have a 05 saab 93 stupidly i left keys in ignition overnight today it reads on sid steering lock malfunction i now cannot start car help

Your ignition lock probably has sticky pin inside of tumbler.
Try spraying some WD40 or PB Blast into the key cylinder.