Thinking about getting another key for your Tesla? You're in luck! Tesla offers several convenient ways to manage your vehicle's access. Whether you've misplaced a key, need one for another driver, or simply want a backup, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand the Types of Tesla Keys
Before you even think about adding a new key, it's essential to know the different types of keys Tesla vehicles support. This will help you decide which one is best for your needs.
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| How To Get Another Tesla Key |
Your Tesla generally supports three types of keys:
Phone Key: This is arguably the most convenient. Your smartphone acts as your primary key, communicating with your Tesla via Bluetooth. It allows for automatic locking and unlocking as you approach or leave your vehicle. Most Tesla models, except some older Model S and X versions (2012-2020), support phone key functionality.
Key Card: Tesla provides two key cards with your vehicle. These are credit card-sized and use short-range radio-frequency identification (RFID) signals. While they don't offer automatic locking/unlocking like the phone key, they are excellent backups in case your phone battery dies or your phone is lost.
Key Fob: This is the traditional car key, resembling a miniature Tesla. Key fobs allow you to press buttons to open trunks, lock/unlock doors, and drive your vehicle. They also support automatic locking and unlocking in most regions. You can have up to four key fobs paired to your Tesla.
Step 2: Decide Which Key You Need
Now that you're familiar with the options, consider your primary reason for needing an additional key:
A. For Everyday Convenience:
If you're looking for a seamless and hands-free experience, setting up another phone key for a family member or co-driver is likely your best bet. It leverages a device they already carry.
B. For Backup and Emergencies:
A key card is perfect for situations where your phone might be out of battery, lost, or damaged. It's also great for valets or service personnel who need temporary access. They are relatively inexpensive to replace.
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
C. For a Traditional Feel and Extra Features:
If you prefer a more tactile experience or want the convenience of physical buttons for opening trunks, a key fob is the way to go. Remember, you can have up to four.
Step 3: Purchasing Your New Tesla Key (if applicable)
If you're adding a new key card or key fob, you'll need to purchase it first.
A. Tesla Shop:
Both key cards and key fobs can be purchased directly from the official Tesla Shop.
Key Cards typically cost around $40.
Key Fobs usually cost around $175.
B. What's Included:
When you purchase a key fob, it usually comes with the key fob itself and a coin cell battery.
Key cards often come in a set of two with a bifold wallet.
Step 4: Adding Your New Key to Your Tesla
The process of adding a new key is straightforward and can be done either via your Tesla's touchscreen or the Tesla app.
A. Setting Up a Phone Key (Your Primary Key):
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Download the Tesla App: Ensure you have the latest version of the Tesla mobile app installed on your smartphone.
Enable Bluetooth: Go into your phone's settings and make sure Bluetooth is enabled for the Tesla app specifically, not just your general Bluetooth. Also, enable location services for the app to "Always On" for the best experience.
Allow Mobile Access: On your Tesla's touchscreen, navigate to
Controls>Safety>Allow Mobile Access.Initiate Setup: While inside or near your vehicle, open the Tesla app.
You might see a "Set Up Phone Key" button on the main screen.
Alternatively, go to
Security & Drivers>Set Up Phone Key.
Follow Prompts: The app and your vehicle's touchscreen will guide you through the pairing process. You may need to tap an existing key card on the reader to confirm the new phone key pairing.
B. Adding a Key Card or Key Fob via Touchscreen:
Access Controls: On your Tesla's touchscreen, touch
Controls>Locks>Keys.Add Key: Tap the
Add Keybutton.Scan New Key:
For Model 3 and Model Y, place the new key card or key fob on top of the center console behind the cup holders.
For Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck, place the key card/fob at the top of the left phone charger against the center divider, pointing the front of the card/fob downwards, and swipe downwards.
Listen for a chime – this indicates the new key is recognized. Remove it once scanned.
Authenticate: You'll then be prompted to scan a key card or key fob that is already paired to the vehicle. This confirms you're the authorized owner.
Confirmation: Once complete, the new key will appear in the key list on your touchscreen. You can then touch the pencil icon next to it to customize its name (e.g., "Wife's Key Card").
C. Adding a Key Card or Key Fob Using the Tesla App (if no working key card/fob is available):
This method is useful if you've lost all your physical keys and only have your phone key, or if you're the owner trying to add a key remotely.
Note: This feature is supported with Tesla mobile app version 4.29.0 or higher on vehicles with software version 2022.40 or higher. Only the vehicle owner can use this method.
Open Tesla App: While inside or near the vehicle, open the Tesla app.
Security & Drivers: Touch
Security & Drivers.Add Key Card: Touch
Add Key Card.Scan New Key: Scan your new key card or key fob on the reader as described in Step 4.B.
Confirmation: The Tesla app will show a confirmation message upon successful pairing. Tap
Doneand remove the key. The key list on your touchscreen will update.
Step 5: Removing Lost or Unwanted Keys (for security) ️
If you've lost a key or simply want to remove access for someone, it's crucial to delete that key from your Tesla's system for security.
Access Controls: On your Tesla's touchscreen, touch
Controls>Locks.Locate Key: In the key list, find the key you wish to delete.
Delete Icon: Touch the trash icon next to that key.
Confirm Deletion: When prompted, you'll need to scan an authenticated (working) key on the card reader to confirm the deletion.
Verification: The key list will no longer show the deleted key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tesla Keys:
How to get a new Tesla key if I lost all of them?
If you've lost all your key cards and key fobs, you can still add a new key card or key fob using the Tesla mobile app, provided you have your phone key set up and access to your Tesla account. Otherwise, you may need to contact Tesla Service for assistance.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
How to set up my phone as a Tesla key?
Download the Tesla app, enable Bluetooth and location services for the app on your phone, ensure "Allow Mobile Access" is on in your car's touchscreen settings, and then follow the "Set Up Phone Key" prompts in the Tesla app while near your vehicle.
How to replace a lost Tesla key card?
You can purchase a new key card from the Tesla Shop and then add it to your vehicle using either the touchscreen method or the Tesla app method outlined in this guide. Remember to delete the lost key card from your car's system for security.
How to add a Tesla key fob to my car?
Purchase a key fob from the Tesla Shop. On your car's touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks > Keys > Add Key. Scan the new key fob on the designated reader and then confirm with an existing key.
How to customize the name of a Tesla key?
After adding a new key, a pencil icon will appear next to it in the Controls > Locks > Keys list on your touchscreen. Tap this icon to rename the key to something more recognizable.
How to know how many keys my Tesla supports?
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
Most Tesla vehicles can support up to 19 keys at a time. This can include a combination of phone keys, key cards, and up to four key fobs.
How to use a Tesla key card to start the car?
To start your Tesla with a key card, once inside, place the key card on the card reader (usually behind the cup holders on the center console for Model 3/Y, or at the top of the left phone charger for Model S/X/Cybertruck), and then press the brake pedal.
How to troubleshoot if my phone key isn't working?
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled for the Tesla app, location services are set to "Always On," and the Tesla app isn't in a low-power or sleep mode. Also, check that you have the latest version of the Tesla app. Try restarting both your phone and your Tesla's touchscreen if issues persist.
How to find out the cost of a new Tesla key fob?
A new Tesla key fob typically costs around $175 (prices may vary slightly by region and model). You can check the exact price on the Tesla Shop website.
How to remove a key from my Tesla's system?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, navigate to Controls > Locks. Find the key you want to remove in the list, tap the trash icon next to it, and then confirm the deletion by scanning an authenticated key.
Learn how to set up your phone as a Tesla key in this quick guide:
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