Accessing your Tesla through your mobile device offers an unparalleled level of convenience and control. Imagine pre-heating your car on a cold morning, checking its charging status from your couch, or even summoning it from a tight parking spot, all with a few taps on your smartphone. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and utilizing mobile access for your Tesla, covering everything from initial setup to granting access to other drivers.
Step 1: Get Ready for Seamless Connectivity!
Are you excited to unlock the full potential of your Tesla right from your smartphone? The first step is to ensure you have the necessary tools in hand.
Sub-heading 1.1: Download the Tesla App
Begin by downloading the official Tesla app on your smartphone. It's available for both iOS and Android devices. Search for "Tesla" in your device's app store.
Sub-heading 1.2: Log In to Your Tesla Account
Once the app is installed, open it and log in using your Tesla account credentials (the same email and password you use to manage your Tesla vehicle online). It's crucial to remain logged in to your account to utilize your phone as a key and access all features. If you have multiple Tesla vehicles linked to your account, ensure you've selected the correct vehicle in the app.
Step 2: Enable Mobile Access from Your Tesla's Touchscreen
This is a critical step that links your vehicle to the mobile app.
Sub-heading 2.1: Navigate to Safety Settings
In your Tesla vehicle, go to the main touchscreen. Tap on the "Controls" icon (usually a car icon at the bottom left of the screen). Then, select "Safety."
Sub-heading 2.2: Toggle "Allow Mobile Access"
Within the "Safety" menu, you'll find an option labeled "Allow Mobile Access." Tap on this to enable it. For security verification, you might be prompted to provide your phone number.
Step 3: Set Up Your Phone as a Key (Phone Key Feature)
The phone key feature is incredibly convenient, allowing your phone to automatically unlock and lock your Tesla as you approach or walk away.
Sub-heading 3.1: Enable Bluetooth on Your Phone
Ensure your smartphone's general Bluetooth settings are turned ON. Also, verify that Bluetooth is specifically enabled for the Tesla mobile app within your phone's app settings. For example, on an iPhone, go to Settings > Tesla > Bluetooth and ensure it's toggled on. For Android, it might be Settings > Apps > Tesla > Permissions > Bluetooth and select "Allow."
Sub-heading 3.2: Grant Location Access
For optimal functionality of the phone key, you should allow the Tesla app to access your location always or when using the app. This helps the car detect your proximity accurately. On your phone, navigate to Settings, find the Tesla app, and choose Location > Always.
Sub-heading 3.3: Initiate Phone Key Setup in the App
While inside or near your Tesla, open the Tesla mobile app. You should see a prompt to "Set Up Phone Key" on the main screen, or you can navigate to "Security" > "Set Up Phone Key." Follow the on-screen prompts in both the mobile app and your vehicle's touchscreen to complete the pairing process.
Important Note: Your phone must have sufficient battery power to run Bluetooth. Many phones disable Bluetooth when the battery is low, which could affect the phone key's functionality.
Step 4: Granting Access to Additional Drivers
If you have family members or friends who will also be driving your Tesla, you can easily grant them mobile app access without sharing your personal login.
Sub-heading 4.1: Open the Tesla App and Select Your Vehicle
On your phone, open the Tesla app and ensure the correct vehicle is selected if you have multiple.
Sub-heading 4.2: Navigate to Security & Drivers
Tap on "Security & Drivers" from the main screen of the Tesla app.
Sub-heading 4.3: Manage Drivers and Send Invitation
Tap on "Manage Drivers" and then select "Add Driver." You will be prompted to enter the email address of the person you wish to invite. They will need to download the Tesla app and create their own Tesla Account (or log in if they already have one) to accept the invitation.
Sub-heading 4.4: Customize Access Levels (if applicable)
While the default grants them access to most features like locking/unlocking, climate control, and location, be aware that additional drivers typically cannot purchase upgrades, manage payment methods, or add/remove other drivers. The owner retains primary control.
Pro Tip: Ensure both you and the invited driver have the latest version of the Tesla app and your vehicle's software is up to date for a smooth experience.
Step 5: Explore the Features of Your Tesla Mobile App
Once mobile access is set up, a world of convenience opens up! Here are just some of the features you can control:
Charging: Check charging progress, start/stop charging, open/close the charge port.
Climate Control: Heat or cool your car remotely, adjust cabin temperature, control seat warmers and windshield defroster.
Lock/Unlock: Lock or unlock your vehicle from anywhere.
Location: Locate your vehicle on a map, get directions, or track its movement.
Summon: (Requires Autopilot) Park or retrieve your Tesla from tight spaces.
Security: Enable Sentry Mode, flash lights, or honk the horn to find your car in a parking lot.
Software Updates: Monitor and initiate vehicle software updates.
Diagnostics: View vehicle status, odometer, VIN, and current software version.
Vent Windows: Partially open windows to cool the cabin.
Remember: Many of these features require your vehicle to have an internet connection (via cellular or Wi-Fi).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to allow mobile access on Tesla touchscreen?
Go to your Tesla's touchscreen, tap "Controls" > "Safety" > "Allow Mobile Access."
How to set up phone key for Tesla?
Download the Tesla app, log in, ensure Bluetooth is enabled for the app and on your phone, grant location access, then open the app near your car and follow the "Set Up Phone Key" prompts.
How to add another driver to Tesla app?
Open the Tesla app, select your vehicle, go to "Security & Drivers" > "Manage Drivers" > "Add Driver," and send an invitation to their email address.
How to troubleshoot Tesla mobile app not connecting?
Ensure your phone has data/Wi-Fi, the app is updated, Bluetooth is on and allowed for the app, and "Allow Mobile Access" is enabled on your car's touchscreen. Try restarting your phone and the app.
How to remove a driver from Tesla app access?
Open the Tesla app, select your vehicle, go to "Security & Drivers" > "Manage Drivers," and tap "Remove" next to the driver's name.
How to manage Tesla app permissions for family members?
Family members added as drivers via the "Manage Drivers" feature will have most app access, but generally won't be able to purchase upgrades or manage account settings.
How to use Tesla remote access control features?
Once mobile access is enabled and your phone is connected, you can use features like lock/unlock, climate control, summoning, and checking charging status directly from the Tesla app.
How to check if my Tesla app is up to date?
Check your phone's app store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) for updates to the Tesla app.
How to enable "Always Allow" location for Tesla app?
Go to your phone's settings, find the Tesla app, select "Location," and choose "Always."
How to unlock Tesla with phone key if my phone battery is low?
If your phone battery is very low, its Bluetooth functionality might be limited, affecting the phone key. It's always advisable to have a key card as a backup.
You can learn more about managing your Tesla's drivers in this video:
