Fixing Saab 9-5 Security System Problems -EricTheCarGuy

Visit me at: www.ericthecarguy.com/
As I said in the video the owner brought me this car along with the supposed fix. The symptoms were an intermittent no start and a message on the dash indicating a security system problem. Apparently this is a common problem with Saabs of this vintage and the problem is usually linked to this siren/security module. Apparently the batteries go bad in the unit causing it to act up intermittently. In this video I show the steps needed to replace the module, it's actually a very easy job that does not require a lot of tools. So if you have an issue with the security system on a Saab of this vintage you might want to give this fix a try.
Here's the ebay store link to the company that rebuilds the modules.
www.ebay.com/itm/2001-Saab-9-5...
Discussion about this video: www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/...
Stay Dirty
ETCG
Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

[@kimberlyjohnson2795]

I love Eric the Car Guy! He's one of the few people on YT who understand that you need detail to be able to duplicate what he's doing. Many people leave out or don't allow you to watch all the steps to what their doing and if you're a newbie, this leaves you quite in the dark as to how to complete the job.

[@ShaunMMX]

You can tell that the owner has pride of her car, for a 2001 its in almost new shape. For her to actually look up the problem and buying the part herself goes to show you that she's actually cares about her car.

[@sniperlif3]

The indication is on the SID in the center console. The SID shows amazing information, have had mine tell me Service Theft Alarm (same issue in this video), a third brake light bulb out, and key battery needing to be replaced. Also, re-manufactured versions of this are not great. The batteries are the first and mostly only thing that causes this error. Getting a new reman unit just prolongs time or gives you a faulty product. About 50$ and a week of time, you can send your old one in, they repair it and fit it with new better quality batteries then ship it back.

[@shelbyfav1]

I am so glad I have found this comment! I have been having problems with my Saab with the alarm going off for absolute no reason at random times of the week. Thank you, you have saved me a lot of money!

[@REDxFROG]

Very nice to see Saab repairs in your videos! I bought it some time ago as used spare part. I might check this part for batteries and stuff. Prior watching this video I thought it was just for the alarm sound.

[@jamesshannon2866]

Finally someone who showed how to deal with those wiring connector murder clips! Thank you!

[@epiphaknee]

The theft alarm module on the 9-5 is equipped with its own power source, so it can operate even when the main battery is disconnected. It uses two Sanyo CR17335 3V Lithium batteries, which get recharged while the car is running. However, the batteries lose their capacity with age, and the current eventually drops below a certain value, which triggers a warning in the self-diagnostic system.

[@BackyardSpaceProgram]

Hi Eric, thank you for your awsome videos! I got some questions, the alarm on my 2001(made in 2000) 9-5 2.0T Estate/station wagon goes off by it self, siren sounds even when the car is unlocked with remote, when the engine is running and so on, the hazards does NOT flash, once the hazards started flashing but no siren, SID informs me "Service, theft alarm", can this be a faulty siren?? I was to the junk yard today and got three sirens and two "glass break detectors", how do I check the "new" sirens so that they are working as they should(execpt the obvious way of put them in the car), can I check the batteries or something? I pulled No 14 fuse under the hood to get it to stop. I also got a problem with the ABS-unit(just like you hade in another video), the ABS, TCS, no speedo and check engine light is on, I swithed to a used unit and the check engine light is now turned of, the speedo works again but I got no ABS or TCS, I bought the car two months ago and it worked fine for 500K(370miles) then all the problems came. I dont know if the unit that was in the car was the one just for my car, it seems impossible to get any information about what unit that is just for my car, on the owners title of the car it says its a automatic but my car is a manual(stick shift). The unit that was in the car is a Bosch 5.3, article number 0273 004 451, I found only one in Sweden(cost $387), I went around to lots of junk yards and checked cars there, almost everyone has a unit that end with 223, 2.0T, 2.3T and even diesels has 223, why does my car have a 451?? I bought a few of them dirt cheap and tested if anyone of them will work but no luck so far. I can have the 451 rebuilt for $323, but if its not the right one? I must have ABS and TCS working or the car work pass inspection. Thank you in advance, best regards Daniel a Swedish Iron owner from Sweden.

[@blackmanops3749]

Wow. Just solved one of the mystery problems my neighbors have been telling me about but I haven't noticed. I hate Saab's. BTW: Thank you ETCG for doing one of the rare Saab car video's on KZbin.

[@UniversalPwner21]

Posting a vid at 7:30AM on a MONDAY. That's dedication right their. Keep it up sir :)

[@ericthecarguy]

Why would you do that?

[@01FozzyS]

Too easy for Eric. :) Always look forward to your videos weekly.

[@lidjungle]

Eric, just to help... The message you will get is on the SID. "Service Theft Alarm". When the client says her key didn't work, she probably means the remote unlock buttons. Car should still start just fine. And if you want to remanufacture the part yourself, you just have to crack it open and replace the rechargable battery. (2 solder points.)

[@clivebell9069]

Eric - We have a Saab 95 Sport Estate 2005 and the alarm goes off intermittently when I open the back offside door after finishing a journey. Can I use this video and just remove the part behind the left hand front wheel arch or do I have to replace it, please advise? thanks so glad I found this info

[@dreammerchant4442]

Another great fix .. we have a 1999 model TURBO SAAB 9~5 WITH THE SAME ISSUE..IT STARTS BUT WONT STAY RUNNING..SO WHEN THOSE BATTERYS GO BAD IT STARTS BUT DIES OUT UNDER A MIN OR LESS.

[@zx8401ztv]

Nice to see you have an easyer one for a change :-), your previous steering rack one was a bloody nightmare!! Fingers crossed it was the fault.

[@19Jimmmy79]

Hey Eric, I seem to recall the reason Saab put the ignition in the center console was so in the event of the driver becoming incapacitated (heart attack, stroke, passed out etc) anyone in the car could turn it off even from the back seat. Dont know if thats what the engineers were thinking but it sound good to me. They have been doing it since the 70's at least. Though the 9000's were on the column.

[@AndrewLane87]

You can take the alarm apart and fix it your self too. You need to replace the two batteries and the three capacitors. The batteries are SANYO CR17335SE 3 volts and the capacitors are 10v 220uf, 16v 10uf, 25v 330uf. They should be under $15 all together. You will need disconnect the batteries from the electronics using jumper J2, then unsolder the old ones and solder the new ones in switch J2 back and reseal the alarm with some sealant and just reinstall.

[@pascalhogstrom2203]

Wrong.

[@LukesRandomShit]

the car has no open indicator on the dash in the start of the video. but in the end it does :D you fixed it haha. good work

[@TheFredriklinnander]

Thank you! was all I needed to take everything appart and reassemble again.

[@bgfelagund]

Yes pretty much. But there are 3 capacitors on the circuit board that should also be changed (it's often not necessary but since they can be the reason for the failure sometimes and they cost a couple of bucks they should be changed). An indication that batteries need changing could be a 'Service theft alarm' message on the SID (info display of the cd player). The CR17335 batteries are soldered to the board. a solder iron, some DIY and 5-10$ worth of parts and you're good to go.

[@originalhistory]

Wow thanks! This is actually a repair I have to do and this just popped up. Glad I subscribed.

[@ZKev1]

Eric you dont have to replace the siren, the original batteries have a high pulse output and cannot be got hold of anymore, the solution is to unsolder the battery pins from the circuitboard and solder in wires instaed , connect these wire to 2 cr123 battery holders and fit a remote battery pack for the alarm in a much more convenient place for future changeing

[@AntiFanboy06]

Thank you so much. The much worse issue that occurs with these packs dying is when the battery does completely fail it trips the antitheft. So the alarm will sound, and literally not stop until the pack gets some sort of a charge, regardless of if the car is on or not. These things were a really dumb idea from saab, but again thank you for the fix guide

[@Tata-iu3fy]

yes, mine just started doing that yesterday. the alarm just keeps going off! I had to take fuse out.

[@simonmorneau7933]

Thank you M.Eric for tour good job! I appreciat it a lot! Keep on! Havé a good day! Ciao....

[@JoshX9]

It just so happens to be my Birthday.Thx Eric

[@JoakimSH]

Yup. You have to remove the stereo, SID, and ACC panels and the torx screws holding the main panel in place. Then >gently< bend the panel away from the dash so the clips let go and the right side of the panel comes out. Beware that it's pretty easy to break something so be very gentle. At last there is 2 more torx screws that holds the cup holder. Put back in reverse order. /Saab-tech from Sweden

[@mds2465]

My first car was a '96 Saab 900S, and I can say from experience that there are not many aftermarket parts for Saabs these days, so if you're lucky enough to find something such as this, by all means go for it!

[@ericthecarguy]

Good cars. Expensive to fix and maintain.

[@kenresendez8879]

I have a 2003 Saab 9.3 SE convertable. The thing just shut down on me and i thought it was gas. but it has planty of gas pressure, I replaced the spark plugs. I now will start but wont run long. then I clean the injectors, Cleaned the MAS flow. It have a new coil pack assy on it. but looks like it has a chinnese crank sensor on it. do you think the crank sensor might be the problem?

[@solesearched]

Fantastic as usual Eric!

[@philip.aocallaghan4602]

Hi. I'm having the same problem, the alarm goes off randomly for no reason. I've checked everywhere for that module including under wheel arches and it is nowhere to be found. it is a 08 Saab 93. any advice would be very welcome.

[@mmeamber]

I have an 03 95 that the alarm has been going off on its own and it's becoming more often than not... It does say in the display every once in a while to service anti theft or whatever. I thought maybe the battery was dying in the fob, but I changed that and still it is doing that... this was a great video!!! we love our Saabs. my husband has two 95 9000 one of them is a Griffin. Anyway, the batteries on the part itself can they be changed or do you have to replace the whole part if the batteries are dying?

[@tracyadams6561]

Your problem is in the alarm module itself..The CR17335 batteries are dying and need replacing.Since yours is a 2003 model it's a sealed unit.Here's a picture of the batteries...www.google.com/search?q=CR17335&client=opera&hs=niy&biw=1341&bih=709&tbm=isch&imgil=mVT402qjwujIzM%253A%253B572lVsWBHJua8M%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.tme.eu%25252Fen%25252Fdetails%25252Fbat-cr17335-pcb%25252Fbatteries%25252Ffdk%25252F&source=iu&pf=m&fir=mVT402qjwujIzM%253A%252C572lVsWBHJua8M%252C_&usg=__EUNK7y-fBGQiw93FsMkNWGRmIQU%3D&ved=0ahUKEwid0tTIkPfNAhVCQSYKHddMAbEQyjcINw&ei=uLWJV52WGcKCmQHXmYWICw#imgrc=mVT402qjwujIzM%3A

[@frank992001]

hi can you please post a video on how to replace alternator on this car as well.

[@gliterman]

For example, when I put 2nd while downgear if I don't go slowly getting into second I get noises as I was missing the gear even when the clutch is totally open by the pedal. when I must put 1st or 2nd I must be slow with it otherwise I must be hard with it and praise to get into the gear. What do you think it is? Thanks for the help :)

[@Cyraxas007]

it is my birthday on 24th of march! Thanks Eric ;DD

[@theuzers]

hey eric im new as a mechanic just started working do you have any tips on how to work faster and more efficient?

[@allrock1238]

Had an issue with the bad siren battery causing the alarm to sound ,, there is a tech 2 option in the Saab programing software that disables the siren and sounds the horn as an alarm instead ,, or you can send the siren in to have its battery's replaced or replace the siren unit itself, ,,

[@WHO9119]

The message will display on the S.I.D unit, also you can order the replacement batteries for the alarm unit If you search for sanyo cr17335se get the ones with the tabs so much easier to solder them in the battery holder

[@andber]

I think Cr17335 is the original.

[@andber]

"CR123A can also work, but you will need to attach the solder tabs. These are the electrolytic capacitors C1: 16v, 10uf C2: 10v, 220uf C3: 25v, 330uf" Copied from another video

[@Cragified]

Saab before the GM years really did excel at well thought out engineering, especially when it came to safety. Which is why it attracted Architects, Engineers, etc. to them. Which is why it wasn't too surprising your female friend actually researched the issue.

[@EternitP8]

Saab always had their ways of doing things. Don't really like them. But I remember the older Saab 99 and 900 with the engine put in backwards. Replacing a clutch took maybe 20 minutes. That was really nice :-)

[@matts417]

Hey I am not trying to question your knowledge, because you know a shit ton more than I do, but If that part was an issue, preventing the vehicle from starting. Wouldn't removing the alarm its self, and trying to start it simulate the same problem its self? J/w or would that cause some other problems. Thanks Eric!

[@Avinash1943]

Eric, these Theft deterrents are a common problem for all brands of cars. Is there a way to make an over view video for them, to be able to tell where to look.

[@simon_illyan]

Hi, I found a strange issue with my newly bought Saab 9-5. In position 0, I have my headlights; in position 1, no headlights, but I can activate the front and rear fog lights; in position 2, I have nothing at all. The high beams should be held at ever position and do not work if you are not holding it. Any ideas about what could it be?

[@uhrrtax]

any grinding noises? if no its gear linkage. if yes syncro is gone and well its ether a gearbox job or new gearbox

[@HewroPreez]

Seatbelt pretensioner and driver airbag will protect your face from impalement by the steering column. While knee injury from the keys is unlikely, I still think the turn-key in the center console is a brilliant idea; for one, starting the car requires less stretching :)

[@JosephKowalski]

Thanks! I have this exact make and model. Great video - much appreciated.

[@AirsoftLax]

I have a Saab 900 so this was entertaining to watch!

[@spelunkerd]

Where are the batteries, and how do you change them?

[@levelvtl]

I have the same problem with my 1999 Buick Century, a security light that won't let me start my car from time to time... A quick research on google told me that it might be my key cylinder... What do you think about it?

[@capang9555]

btw the message comes up on the SID (saab information display) saying "key not recognized" and "service theft alarm" the service theft alarm most commonly means that the backup batteries in the siren are starting to go.

[@mohammadgl2010]

i have a gmc acadia 2008 and the thermometer for outside tempreture is not working and when a rain comes or my car gets wet the ac will not work i live in uae its desert and i need the ac so can you make a video to how can i change it

[@artieale]

question... someone said here to "to crack it open and replace the rechargable battery. (2 solder points.)" I'm sorry but i don't get the part of replace THEN it says "2 solder points"? what does that mean? are the batteries soldered or what did he mean? i wanna fix the issue on my SID and the alarm going off once in a while, so what is the best advice? replace those "batteries" is it even possible to replace them? or send it to re-manufacture it?

[@piffdaddy420]

same exact happened to my 9-3. simple switch. went to junk yard picked one out for 10 bux. message came on my SID (*(message center)....siren didnt work. everything was fine except no alarm, and the msg every time but never got the no wstart. switched it out nice easy and worked ever since. i didnt kno that fact about the key location cool info

[@Streetlightning7]

I have an 04 with 71000mi, had it about 2 years. Very dependable. Look into it.

[@Djhg2000]

It actually was my birthday when you posted this :O

[@francistheodorecatte]

I just went through the SID repair on a 1997 900s vert. Pixelfix didn't have the cable, so I had to source one off of fleabay. One of the more annoying fixes on that car, when including the off-kilter windows not sealing and causing water leaks (sometimes days after the rain,) and the heat mixer door not closing all the way (in the middle of summer, no less.) Oh, and the top doesn't work. At all. Like all of them.

[@chicagoui9299]

Hello mr. car guy. Where did you purchase the remaned part? I have the same issue.

[@jimsachs]

Link is old - probably to BBM Reman which is out of business. Try Module Masters in Moscow, ID. Reputable firm and not costly for a rebuild service but not a direct replacement part purchase. Rebuild service works great. modulemaster.com/products/saab-9-3-9-5-1999-2004-theft-alarm-rebuild

[@billgoldberg5935]

Yes Gear wrench works , I myself Have the Craftsman Rachet wrenches and Man I cannot be more Happy to not have to go throught the take off and turn at a time, I love Craftsman so anyone who hates the screw off.

[@jwells24]

Also you mentioned she had an occasional no start. This would not be related to the theft alarm, but rather is a separate problem if it's not accompanied with any messages on the display then my money would be on the Neutral Safety/Position Switch NSS or NPS. These can have intermittent faults and the car's computer doesn't read it's in P. Usually this happens when it gets hot out. To fix the NSS needs to be replaced or a bypass can be wired in-if you do a search for this you should find details

[@He1lFire]

If it is a battery inside the part causing the issue, it could very well be brought on by cold temperatures in particular, being that it's only shield from the temperature is the plastic fender.

[@tur8bocivicsi]

@ericthecarguy Do u have any videos on replacing the valve seals on a b16a2 vtec engine??

[@fleuroman]

the security LED is in the centre of the crash pad, near the screen

[@sidnaciousnesssmith6580]

Hi Eric, is it possible to do this without removing the wheel? Can I just turn the wheel and remove that stupid alarm? Who's gona steal my saab anyway?

[@bgfelagund]

Yup SAABs can be expensive to fix but so can be most cars. They are quite sturdy when looked after but if you don't want to fix bits here and there on your own the maintenance can be expensive. If you are looking at a petrol car keep in mind the timing chain must be changed around 130kmiles or otherwise it could get a bit messy ... and when it's changed some other bits should be changed too (bearings if I'm not mistaken, crankshaft must be checked) as the engine is opened anyways.

[@bosna916]

Hey Eric what was leaking ? Was it water ?

[@cheridepontee2011]

I am working on 1999 Saab 9-5. 3.0 no start. It started with a bad starter. Replace it. Still no start. Replace the starter relay. Still no start. Bypassed the NSS (Neutral Safety Switch) got it to crank but still no start. Noid light does not light. Fuel pump is 40 PSI. Any ideas from here welcomed

[@betterthanb4110]

I have 2005 Saab 9-3 Arc the sid is displaying alarm was triggered while armed call customer service how do I disengage that ?

[@davidjmatar4784]

is this only on the Saab's? what about a 2000 grand cherokee

[@efilnikufecin2004]

The "tricky" lug bolts are made much easier to insert using a bolt of the same size and thread pattern, but longer and with the head cut off. start it in (don't tighten) before you put the wheel on, and use it as a guide to put the wheel on. Put the other lugnuts in, then remove the bolt, and put it's lugnut in. I know this from working in a tire shop where I worked on a lot of Mercedes. Oh, and you shouldn't use an impact to tighten those bolts. You can damage an expensive brake disc.

[@laloca4040]

can you tell me how set the timing on 2003 Saab turbo please

[@donnellhutton2579]

Hi I just recently purchased a 2001 saab 95 se eco. And once in a while it went start . I tried to jump it but the battery was good when I tried to get it jump but it not need a jump i first realize when I put it in neutral and while it was moving I put it park it just started up ! Why is that ? Is it malfunction or a part that is bad ? Need to know how to fix it or what's wrong !

[@jfv65]

+Donnell Hutton on manual gearbox Saabs you can only start the car in reverse gear with the clutch depressed. It's a Saab specific safety thing. Maybe it is different on the automatics? Only startup in P?

[@Meissama]

What year og9-3 you have? I have an '01

[@Meissama]

Horn and electronics are off until you turn it to on. This prevent's battery drains. It also turns off cig lighter and headlamps. Interior lights turn off about 5-10 mins of being left on even in the on position. It's more of saab protecting the battery, but in doing so it turns of a lot of the components. Horn included. Plus can't say I've once had to use my horn while sitting in the car with it off.

[@ShiversRSS]

You should have tried to start it without it plugged in to see what happens. Great video none the less.

[@darielmorales4505]

Hey man good video.now i got a question for you .is a2003 saab 95 won't start the owner said the security unit or box which is under the driver seat get water and shorted waht do you think could be and what is the name of tha box?thanks

[@beatnick3531]

The box under the seat is called the TWICE module. The one under the dash is the ICE/DICE

[@darielmorales4505]

@@beatnick3531 thanks

[@cipmars]

I think the light bulb for the top half of the tachometer is out. Please make a video about changing that. It will make for a very entertaining video. I have changed it on my 2001 9-3 and I know how "easy" it is.

[@forevercomputing]

In the UK garages use torque wrenches to affix wheels and air tools to remove them. Not sure what US legislation or trade standards are.

[@4theFiero]

Notice at 1:31 there is no door ajar display on dash, but after repair at 8:34 that as well as some other light come on in the dash.

[@curtisramsey2219]

2005 sabb 9.3 wont start the computer thinks the car is being stolen. Is that the problem with the one you just fix

[@frank992001]

where are you located? im in the Bronx ny do you recommend any mechanic

[@Roushfan5]

Even in the GM years they did some pretty cool design work. Personally I don't think I'd ever own one but they where still a pretty cool automotive company.

[@Porsche996TT]

Put it simply, it is a wrench-like tool to measure the force you're applying to the studs to protect them from breaking as it makes a "click/tick" noise to inform you that this force is enough.

[@epiphaknee]

Saab does not sell replacement batteries. Fortunately, you can find the batteries from an electronics supplier and replace them yourself, if you're handy with a soldering iron. The batteries need to be of the exactly the same type and model as the originals. Do NOT solder the batteries directly! The direct contact with a soldering iron might heat the battery up too much and cause it to explode. Instead, make sure that the batteries you buy come with external leads attached to them.

[@DilanGilluly]

Why did I watch this? I don't even own a Saab. Lol

[@gettyfrank779]

I've seen 90% of ETCG videos twice and I don't own a car.

[@WHO9119]

I own a Saab and I know how to do it yet Im still watching lol

[@g.md.b.6229]

I will subscribe to your channel. I own a saab 95 with this problem though

[@g.md.b.6229]

you have yourself your first subscriber now I see

[@m.faizan7578]

Because its Eric..duh

[@erictold]

Nice video. I'm not a Saab owner though. lol. Eric, could you make a video changing engine mounts of missan V6 models such as Z350,G35, or maxima? It's very hard to reach the mounts by the way.

[@artieale]

also....is this why when i try to put it in drive or reverse the car shuts off?

[@12345axes]

hello eric! I have a problem with an old windstar (piece of shizzz) the typical window problem!

[@tunespt]

If you have a good impact tool, you should know where is the 80N-90N setting, which not only being more than enough, is the usual torque spec for _car_ tires.

[@Meissama]

Curious, what design aspect was stupid?

[@WHO9119]

we use to replace them all the time at the dealership when we was open but ever one I know was to cheap to buy one new, you can order the batteries online and solder them in cr17335se

[@Red5151]

I imagine the fact that it's one less thing you need to alter the production line for and make separate parts for left and right-hand drive cars has a part in the reasoning too.

[@dazsenna4842]

good job eric

[@alwaysbradders]

Can you drive, without the alarm box attached??

[@phazi0]

Is there any need to "marry" the new siren with the car or is it just bolt on?

[@82raptor]

i think they are great cars! try to get one with the h-22 block in it so you have vtec!

[@gliterman]

Hi Eric, I'm a follower: My car Mitsubishi Carisma DA 2002 1.9 D-i-D 102bhp (

[@sleepyhollow783]

It looked as though, at the top-center of the speedometer, there was a triangle alert light on during start up. It flashed RED at first. Later, with the part changed out, the light was AMBER during start up. Maybe that was the alert for which we were looking.

[@andykarl6595]

Hi Eric yah the error code does not show up with the rest of the idiot lights. It shows up on the console message center. I had same problem on 2004 9-5 with 210,000 yikes

[@Rockxenez]

Thank you very much.