The world of Saab car maintenance and repair often involves navigating complex electronic systems. One common question that arises, particularly for owners of Saab 9-3 models, is whether you can program a Saab SIM (Steering Integration Module, often referred to as CIM – Column Integration Module) from one car to another. This question often surfaces when dealing with issues like faulty CIMs or key programming difficulties. One Saabnet forum user, felchi80, shared their detailed experience tackling this very issue, offering valuable insights for anyone facing similar challenges.
The Challenge of CIM Programming in Saabs
The CIM is a crucial component in modern Saabs, integrating steering, security, and key recognition functions. It’s deeply intertwined with the car’s immobilizer system, designed to prevent theft. This sophisticated security system means simply swapping a used CIM from another vehicle isn’t straightforward. Components like the CIM, ECU (Engine Control Unit), and keys are “married” to the car’s unique security system. Replacing or swapping these parts typically requires a programming procedure to ensure they function correctly with the vehicle’s existing electronics.
Felchi80’s initial attempt to install a used CIM in their 2004 Saab 9-3 Aero perfectly illustrates this challenge. They tried to “mate” a used CIM with keys to their car, but encountered persistent security access requests. This is a common roadblock because the car’s system recognizes the used CIM as foreign and demands proper authorization before integration.
A Real-World Success Story: Reprogramming a Used CIM
Frustrated with the initial failures, felchi80 attempted to “unmarry” the original CIM, hoping this would pave the way for the used module. However, this led to a more complicated situation. Even after unmarrying the original CIM, the “new” used CIM still wouldn’t integrate. Worse, the original CIM could not be re-added, leaving the car in a state of electronic limbo.
Despite these setbacks, felchi80 noticed something peculiar. A DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) check indicated “added CIM,” and the car could still start. This suggested a partial or incomplete integration, masking an underlying issue. The problem became acutely apparent when attempting to program a new key fob. The “add key” procedure failed after security checks, throwing an error. Further investigation revealed that the ECU was also divorced during troubleshooting, compounding the problem as the system now required CIM addition before ECU integration.
Facing a seemingly insurmountable problem – unable to add CIM, ECU, or a new key – felchi80 turned to online resources and stumbled upon helpful advice on the Saabnet forum, specifically crediting users SWEDECAR & JustinHiFi. This guidance proved to be the turning point.
The key to success, as felchi80 discovered, lay in using the correct software versions and tools. The breakthrough came with the realization that an updated version of Tech2 software was necessary. Initially using Tech2 with Saab 143.00 and TIS2000 2008-2, felchi80 faced limitations. TIS2000 only offered software up to version 136.00. The solution involved accessing TIS2WEB (Tech2 Web) for a day pass, which provided access to the crucial v148.00 software.
Connecting Tech2 to TIS2WEB initially presented connectivity issues, with connection timeouts despite trying various COM port settings on both virtual (VMware/WinXP) and physical (Win7) machines. Suspecting the USB serial adapter, felchi80 resorted to using an older PC with a native COM port and a dedicated power cable for the Tech2. This configuration finally allowed a successful update to v148.00.
With the updated software, the CIM programming process went smoothly. Felchi80 successfully added the used CIM, then the ECU, and finally programmed the new key. The car started, and all systems were functional again. This experience underscores the critical role of software versions and the right diagnostic tools in successfully programming Saab CIMs.
Tools and Software Required for Saab CIM Programming
Based on felchi80’s experience, successfully programming a Saab CIM, especially a used module, to another car requires:
- Tech2 Diagnostic Tool: This is the essential hardware interface for communicating with Saab vehicle systems.
- TIS2000 or TIS2WEB Software: Software necessary for security access, software downloads, and programming procedures. TIS2WEB offers access to the latest software versions.
- Correct Software Version: For certain procedures, like CIM programming, specific software versions are crucial. Version 148.00 or later may be required for newer models or complex programming tasks.
- Reliable Connection: A stable connection between the Tech2, computer, and vehicle is vital. Direct COM ports may be more reliable than USB serial adapters in some cases, particularly for software updates.
Key Takeaways and Considerations
Felchi80’s journey provides several important takeaways for Saab owners considering CIM programming:
- Used CIM Programming is Possible: It is indeed possible to program a used Saab CIM to another car, but it is not a simple plug-and-play procedure.
- Specialized Tools are Necessary: Tech2 and appropriate software are indispensable for this type of programming. Generic OBD-II scanners are insufficient.
- Software Version Matters: Having the correct and updated software version is critical for success. Older software versions may lack the necessary functions or compatibility.
- Potential Connectivity Issues: Be prepared to troubleshoot potential communication problems between the diagnostic tools and the vehicle’s systems.
- Complexity and Risk: CIM programming is an advanced procedure. Incorrect steps can lead to immobilizer issues, rendering the car inoperable. If unsure, seeking professional help from a Saab specialist is advisable.
In conclusion, while “Can You Program A Saab Sim To Another Car?” is a complex question, the answer is yes, with the right tools, software, and a methodical approach. Felchi80’s experience serves as a testament to the possibility and provides a valuable real-world example for the Saab community. It highlights the importance of community knowledge sharing platforms like Saabnet in navigating intricate car repair challenges.
