Are you a Tesla owner who's lost a key card, or perhaps you're just looking for a spare? Maybe you've recently purchased a used Tesla and want to ensure you have all the necessary access methods. Whatever your reason, getting a new Tesla key card is a straightforward process, and we're here to walk you through every step. Let's get your Tesla ready to roll with its new access credential!
Step 1: Assess Your Current Key Situation & Needs
Before you dive into ordering a new key card, take a moment to understand what kind of key you actually need and how many you currently have. Tesla vehicles typically support three types of keys:
Phone Key: Your smartphone acts as your primary key via Bluetooth connection with the Tesla app. This is usually the most convenient method.
Key Cards: These credit-card-sized cards use RFID/NFC technology to unlock, lock, and start your Tesla. They are an excellent backup for when your phone is unavailable, out of battery, or if someone else needs temporary access. Most new Teslas come with two.
Key Fobs: (If equipped) These are traditional-looking car keys with buttons for remote locking, unlocking, and trunk access. They also support automatic locking/unlocking and can serve as a backup.
Consider this: Do you simply need an additional key card, or are you replacing a lost or damaged one? Understanding this will help streamline the process.
Step 2: Acquiring Your New Tesla Key Card
There are a couple of primary ways to obtain a new Tesla key card.
Sub-heading: Ordering Directly from the Tesla Shop ️
This is often the most reliable and recommended method for purchasing genuine Tesla key cards.
Visit the Official Tesla Shop: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Tesla Shop website.
Search for "Key Card": Use the search bar on the Tesla Shop to find "Key Card." You'll typically find an option for a standard key card.
Check Compatibility: While most key cards are compatible with Model 3, Model Y, and 2021+ Model S and Model X vehicles, always double-check the product description to ensure it's compatible with your specific Tesla model and year.
Add to Cart and Purchase: Select the quantity of key cards you need and proceed to checkout. You'll need to log in with your Tesla account.
Shipping and Delivery: Tesla will ship the new key card(s) to your provided address. Keep in mind that shipping times can vary.
Sub-heading: Visiting a Tesla Service Center
If you prefer a more in-person approach, or if you're experiencing issues that might require a technician's assistance, a Tesla Service Center can also provide new key cards.
Schedule a Service Appointment: The best way to do this is through your Tesla mobile app. Navigate to the "Service" section and schedule an appointment, clearly stating that you need a new key card.
Prepare for Your Visit: The service team may contact you to pre-diagnose or gather additional information. They might also advise you to bring any existing key cards or fobs to the appointment.
In-Person Assistance: At the service center, a Tesla technician will be able to provide and program a new key card for your vehicle. This can be particularly useful if you've lost all your existing keys.
Note: While third-party sellers on platforms like eBay may offer Tesla key cards, purchasing directly from Tesla is generally recommended to ensure authenticity and proper functionality.
Step 3: Pairing Your New Tesla Key Card to Your Vehicle
Once you have your new key card in hand, the next crucial step is to pair it with your Tesla. This process can be done directly through your car's touchscreen or, in some cases, via the Tesla mobile app if you have no other working keys.
Sub-heading: Pairing Using Your Tesla Touchscreen (Most Common Method)
This method requires you to have at least one existing, authenticated key (either a phone key, another key card, or a key fob) already paired with your vehicle.
Enter Your Tesla: Use an existing key (phone key, key card, or key fob) to enter your Tesla.
Access the Locks Menu: On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap on "Controls" > "Locks."
Add a New Key: Look for the "Keys" section and tap on "Add Key."
Scan Your New Key Card:
For Model 3 and Model Y: Place your new key card on the center console behind the cup holders.
For Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck: Place the new key card at the top of the left phone charger against the center divider, pointing the front of the card downwards and swiping downwards.
You should hear a chime and see a confirmation on the screen when the new key card is recognized. Remove the key card once it has been scanned.
Confirm with an Existing Key: The system will then prompt you to scan a key that is already paired with your vehicle. This acts as a security measure to confirm you are an authorized user. Place your existing key card or key fob on the designated reader as you did with the new card.
Confirmation: Once successful, the new key card will appear in the key list on your touchscreen. You can then tap the pencil icon next to the new key to customize its name (e.g., "Spare Card," "Valet Card").
Sub-heading: Pairing Using the Tesla Mobile App (If No Working Keys Are Available)
In the unfortunate event that you've lost all your existing key cards and fobs, and your phone key isn't working, you might still be able to add a new key using the Tesla app. This typically requires the vehicle owner to be logged into the app.
Be Near Your Vehicle: Ensure you are inside or very close to your Tesla.
Open the Tesla App: Launch the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone.
Navigate to Security & Drivers: In the app, tap on "Security & Drivers."
Add Key Card: Look for and tap on "Add Key Card."
Scan Your New Key Card: Follow the on-screen instructions in the app to scan your new key card on the vehicle's card reader (same locations as mentioned above for touchscreen pairing).
Confirmation: The Tesla app will show a confirmation message once the key is successfully paired. Tap "Done" and remove the key card from the reader. The new key will then appear in the key list on your vehicle's touchscreen.
Step 4: Testing Your New Key Card
After successfully pairing your new key card, it's essential to test its functionality to ensure everything is working correctly.
Unlocking/Locking: With your vehicle locked, tap your new key card on the driver's side B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors, just below the Autopilot camera). The vehicle should unlock. Tap it again to lock. You should see the headlights flash and hear a soft chime (if acoustic locking confirmation is enabled).
Starting the Vehicle: Once inside the vehicle, place your new key card on the center console reader (behind the cup holders for Model 3/Y, or the left phone charger for Model S/X/Cybertruck). Within two minutes, press the brake pedal to start the vehicle. If you wait longer, you may need to re-authenticate the card.
Remember: Tesla key cards do not support automatic walk-away locking or unlocking. You must physically tap the card on the B-pillar to lock or unlock the vehicle.
Step 5: Managing Your Keys and Security
With your new key card in hand, it's a good practice to manage your keys and enhance your vehicle's security.
Sub-heading: Removing Old or Lost Keys ️
If you've replaced a lost key card, it's crucial to remove the old, lost key from your vehicle's access list for security purposes.
Access Locks Menu: On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap "Controls" > "Locks."
Identify the Key: In the key list, find the key you want to delete. It will usually be listed as "Key Card" with a generic name unless you customized it.
Delete the Key: Tap the trash icon (or a similar delete icon) next to the key you wish to remove.
Confirm Deletion: The system will prompt you to scan an authenticated key on the card reader to confirm the deletion. This prevents unauthorized deletion of keys.
Verify: Once complete, the deleted key will no longer appear in the key list.
Sub-heading: Enabling "PIN to Drive" (Highly Recommended!)
For an added layer of security, especially if you frequently use key cards or have valets drive your car, consider enabling "PIN to Drive."
Access Safety & Security: On your Tesla's touchscreen, tap "Controls" > "Safety."
Enable PIN to Drive: Turn on the "PIN to Drive" feature. You'll be prompted to create a 4-digit PIN.
Confirmation: From now on, you'll need to enter this PIN on the touchscreen before you can drive your Tesla, even after unlocking it with a key card or phone key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to use a Tesla key card to unlock the car?
To unlock your Tesla with a key card, simply tap the card against the driver's side B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors, beneath the Autopilot camera) for a second or two. You'll hear a chime and the lights will flash.
How to start a Tesla with a key card?
After unlocking and entering the car, place the key card on the designated reader on the center console (behind the cup holders for Model 3/Y; on the left phone charger for Model S/X/Cybertruck). Then, press the brake pedal within two minutes to start the vehicle.
How to add a new key card to my Tesla?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks > Add Key. Then, scan your new key card on the console reader, and confirm the pairing by scanning an already paired key card or key fob.
How to remove a lost Tesla key card from my vehicle?
Go to Controls > Locks on your Tesla's touchscreen. Find the lost key in the list and tap the trash icon next to it. You'll need to scan an authenticated key to confirm the deletion.
How to troubleshoot a Tesla key card that isn't working?
First, ensure you're placing it correctly on the reader. Try holding it still for a second or two. Check for any physical damage to the card. If issues persist, ensure your vehicle's software is updated, and if necessary, contact Tesla Service.
How to purchase a new Tesla key card?
You can purchase a new key card directly from the official Tesla Shop online or by scheduling a service appointment at a Tesla Service Center.
How to know if my Tesla key card is compatible with my vehicle?
Tesla key cards are generally compatible with all Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, and Model S and Model X vehicles produced in 2021 or later. Always check the product description on the Tesla Shop for specific compatibility.
How to enable PIN to Drive for added security with my key card?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, navigate to Controls > Safety > PIN to Drive and follow the prompts to set up a 4-digit PIN.
How to use the Tesla mobile app if I don't have a key card?
Your Tesla mobile app acts as a phone key via Bluetooth. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and the Tesla app, and that "Allow Mobile Access" is enabled on your vehicle's touchscreen.
How to find out the cost of a replacement Tesla key card?
A standard Tesla key card typically costs around $40 (USD) from the official Tesla Shop. Prices may vary slightly depending on region and any additional accessories included (like a wallet).
