Uh oh, can't find your Tesla key card? Don't panic! It happens to the best of us. Whether it slipped out of your pocket or is hiding in plain sight, we're here to help you track it down and get back on the road. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Detective ️♀️
Before we jump into more technical solutions, let's start with a thorough physical search. Think like a detective and retrace your steps!
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| How To Find Tesla Key Card |
Sub-heading: The Usual Suspects
Pockets and Bags: Check every single pocket in your pants, jacket, and any bags or purses you were carrying. Don't forget the small, often-overlooked compartments!
Car Interior: This might seem obvious, but sometimes the key card slides into unexpected places.
Under the seats: Reach deep under both the driver's and passenger's seats.
Between the seats and console: This is a common culprit for fallen items.
Glove box: When your Tesla is delivered, key cards are typically placed here. It's a good spot for safekeeping, and sometimes they get left there.
Center console: Check all compartments and cubbies.
Cup holders: A loose card can easily fall into these.
Door pockets: Give them a good pat down.
Home/Office Hotspots:
Counters and tables: Where do you usually put your keys when you walk in?
Desks and drawers: If you were working, it might be tucked away.
Laundry basket/clothes pile: A surprising number of lost items turn up here!
Delivery Package: If your Tesla was recently delivered, the key cards might still be in the original envelope or package you received.
Step 2: Leverage the Power of Your Smartphone (The Tesla App)
Your smartphone, with the Tesla app installed, is your most reliable backup and can often save the day when a key card goes missing.
Sub-heading: Your Phone as Your Primary Key
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Set Up Phone Key: If you haven't already, your Tesla mobile app can act as your primary key. Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is enabled and the Tesla app has location services set to "Always On" for the best experience.
Open the Tesla app.
While inside or near your vehicle, touch "Set Up Phone Key" on the main screen, or navigate to Security > Set Up Phone Key.
Follow the prompts on the mobile app and vehicle touchscreen to complete the setup.
Remote Access: Even if your phone isn't set up as a "Phone Key," you can still use the Tesla app for basic functions.
Unlock/Lock: The app allows you to remotely lock and unlock your Tesla.
Remote Start: In an emergency, if you are the owner, you can start your car remotely using the app, even without a key card. This is especially useful if you're trying to move your car to a safer location or if someone else needs to access it temporarily.
Step 3: Consider a Replacement Key Card
If your detective work and the Tesla app haven't yielded results, it's time to think about a replacement. Tesla key cards are relatively inexpensive and easy to acquire.
Sub-heading: Purchasing and Programming a New Card
Where to Buy: You can purchase replacement key cards directly from the Tesla Shop. They typically come in a pack of two with a bifold wallet.
The cost for a new key card is around $40-$45 USD, which is significantly less than traditional car key replacements.
Programming a New Key Card (Using an Existing Key or the App):
Unlock your Tesla: Use an existing key card, key fob, or the Tesla mobile app to unlock your car.
Enter "Add Key" mode: On your Tesla's touchscreen, navigate to Controls > Locks > Keys > Add Key.
Scan the new card: Place your new key card on the card reader. The location of the reader varies slightly by model:
Model 3 and Model Y: Place the key card on top of the center console, behind the cup holders.
Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck: Place the key card at the top of the left phone charger, against the center divider, and swipe downwards.
You should hear a chime when the new key card is recognized.
Confirm with an existing key: Scan a key card or key fob that is already paired with your vehicle to confirm the new key pairing. If you're using the Tesla app to add the key, the app will guide you through the confirmation process.
Name the key: Once complete, the key list will include the new key. You can touch the associated pencil icon to customize its name (e.g., "Backup Card," "Spouse's Card").
Programming a New Key Card (If you have NO working keys): If you've lost all your key cards and don't have a functional phone key, you can still add a new key using the Tesla mobile app (version 4.29 or higher).
While inside or near the vehicle, open the Tesla app.
Touch "Security & Drivers."
Touch "Add Key Card."
Scan your new key card on the reader as described above.
The Tesla app will show a confirmation message when the key is successfully paired. Tap "Done" and remove the key card.
Step 4: Remove Lost Key Cards for Security ️
Once you've replaced a lost key card, or if you simply want to revoke access, it's crucial to remove it from your vehicle's authorized keys.
On the Touchscreen:
Tap Controls > Locks.
In the key list, find the lost key that you would like to delete and tap the trash icon next to it.
When prompted, scan an authenticated key (one that still works) on the card reader to confirm the deletion.
The key list will no longer include the deleted key.
10 FAQ Questions:
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
How to use the Tesla app as a key?
Simply download the Tesla mobile app, log in with your Tesla account, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and the app has "Always On" location access, and then set up "Phone Key" within the app while near your vehicle.
How to add a new Tesla key card?
You can add a new key card via your Tesla's touchscreen by going to Controls > Locks > Keys > Add Key, then scanning your new card and confirming with an existing paired key. You can also do this through the Tesla app.
How to remove a lost Tesla key card?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks, find the lost key in the list, tap the trash icon, and then confirm the deletion by scanning an existing authenticated key.
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
How to start a Tesla with a key card?
After unlocking the car with the key card by tapping it on the B-pillar, get inside and place the key card on the center console reader (or left phone charger for S/X) and press the brake pedal within two minutes.
How to unlock a Tesla with a key card?
To unlock your Tesla, tap the key card on the B-pillar (the vertical support between the front and rear doors) on the driver's side, directly below the Autopilot camera.
How much does a replacement Tesla key card cost?
A replacement Tesla key card typically costs around $40-$45 USD and usually comes as a pack of two from the Tesla Shop.
How to troubleshoot a Tesla key card that's not working?
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
If your key card isn't working, check for physical damage, ensure it's clean, remove it from wallets with other cards that might cause interference, and ensure you're placing it correctly on the reader. If issues persist, you might need to re-pair it or contact Tesla support.
How to know if my Tesla key card is paired?
You can check the list of paired keys on your Tesla's touchscreen by navigating to Controls > Locks. All currently paired keys, including key cards, phone keys, and key fobs, will be listed there.
How to use a Tesla key card for valet service?
The Tesla key card is convenient for valet service as it's a simple card to hand over, allowing temporary access without needing to give your phone or a more expensive key fob.
How to get a temporary key for my Tesla?
If you need temporary access to your Tesla, the key card is an excellent solution. You can purchase a new one and program it for the temporary user, then easily remove its access from the vehicle's touchscreen when no longer needed.
Don't let a lost key card get you down! Here's a quick video on how to find your Tesla key card:
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