Want to unlock the future of car ownership? Integrating your Tesla key with Apple Wallet is a convenient way to access and control your vehicle directly from your iPhone or Apple Watch! Let's dive into how you can set this up.
Step 1: Prepare Your Tesla and iPhone
Before you begin, let's make sure everything is ready for a seamless setup. This initial preparation is crucial to avoid any hiccups along the way.
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| How To Add Tesla Key To Apple Wallet |
Sub-heading: Check Software Compatibility
It's essential that both your Tesla and your Apple device are running the latest software versions.
Tesla Vehicle Software: Your Tesla needs to be on a software version that supports the Apple Wallet key feature. Generally, vehicles with software version 2022.40 or higher are compatible. You can check your car's software version on the touchscreen by navigating to
Controls>Software.iOS Version: Your iPhone should be running iOS 15 or later. For optimal performance and new features, it's always recommended to update to the latest stable iOS version. Go to
Settings>General>Software Updateon your iPhone.Tesla App Version: Ensure you have the latest version of the Tesla mobile app installed on your iPhone. Open the App Store, search for "Tesla," and check for any available updates. Version 4.29.0 or later is typically required.
Sub-heading: Enable Crucial Settings
A few settings on your iPhone and in your Tesla need to be enabled for the digital key to function correctly.
Bluetooth on iPhone: Make sure your iPhone's Bluetooth is turned ON. Go to
Settings>Bluetooth.Location Services for Tesla App: For the best experience, set the Tesla app's location services to "Always." This allows your phone to communicate with your car even when the app isn't actively open. Navigate to
Settings>Tesla>Locationand selectAlways.Allow Mobile Access in Tesla: On your Tesla's touchscreen, ensure "Allow Mobile Access" is enabled. You can find this setting under
Controls>Safety>Allow Mobile Access.
Step 2: Adding Your Tesla Key to Apple Wallet
Now that your devices are prepared, let's get your digital key into your Apple Wallet!
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
Sub-heading: Using the Tesla App
This is the primary and most straightforward method to add your Tesla key.
Be Near Your Vehicle: Ensure your iPhone is inside or near your Tesla when you begin this process. This allows for proper communication between your phone and the car.
Open the Tesla App: Launch the Tesla mobile app on your iPhone.
Navigate to Keys: Look for a section related to "Locks" or "Keys" within the app. Some versions might have a prominent "Set Up Phone Key" button directly on the main screen.
Initiate "Add Key to Apple Wallet": Tap on the option that says
Add Key to Apple WalletorSet Up Phone Key. The exact wording might vary slightly depending on your app version.Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through the remaining steps. This will typically involve:
Authentication: You'll likely need to authenticate with Face ID or your iPhone passcode to confirm the action.
Vehicle Confirmation: The Tesla app and your car's touchscreen might display prompts to confirm the pairing.
Placing Key Card (if prompted): In some cases, especially for initial setup or if your phone key isn't working as expected, the app might instruct you to place an already paired physical key card on the car's card reader (typically behind the cup holders on Model 3/Y, or on the left phone charger for Model S/X, depending on the manufacturing date). This helps confirm your ownership.
Confirmation: Once the process is complete, you'll see a confirmation message in the Tesla app, and your Tesla key will appear in your Apple Wallet.
Sub-heading: What if the Option is Missing?
If you don't see the "Add Key to Apple Wallet" option, don't fret!
Update Everything: Double-check that your Tesla app, iOS, and Tesla vehicle software are all fully updated. Restarting your iPhone after updates can also help.
Check Ownership: Only the owner of the vehicle is typically able to pair a new key using the mobile app.
Troubleshooting: If the issue persists, refer to the troubleshooting section at the end of this guide.
Step 3: Using Your Tesla Key in Apple Wallet
Once your key is added, using it is incredibly convenient!
Sub-heading: Unlocking and Locking Your Tesla
Express Mode: Most Tesla keys added to Apple Wallet will work with Express Mode. This means you can simply hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the car's door handle to unlock or lock it, without needing to authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID.
Standard Tap: For enhanced security or if Express Mode isn't enabled, you might need to authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID before tapping your device to the car's reader.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Sub-heading: Starting Your Tesla
With your iPhone or Apple Watch acting as your key, you can start your Tesla by simply placing your device on the wireless phone charger in the center console. The car will recognize your digital key and allow you to shift into drive.
Sub-heading: Sharing Your Digital Key
Apple Wallet offers the ability to securely share your car key with others.
Via iMessage: You can share your Tesla key with friends and family members directly through iMessage. You can also customize the level of access they receive (e.g., unlock only, or full driving access).
Removing Access: You retain full control and can revoke shared key access at any time through the Tesla app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my Tesla supports Apple Wallet key?
Your Tesla needs to be on software version 2022.40 or higher. You can check this on your Tesla's touchscreen under Controls > Software.
How to update my Tesla app to the latest version?
Go to the App Store on your iPhone, search for "Tesla," and tap "Update" if an update is available.
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
How to enable Bluetooth on my iPhone?
Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle the switch to the "On" position.
How to set location services to "Always" for the Tesla app?
On your iPhone, go to Settings > Tesla > Location and select Always.
How to enable "Allow Mobile Access" in my Tesla?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Safety and ensure Allow Mobile Access is enabled.
How to troubleshoot if "Add Key to Apple Wallet" is missing?
Ensure both your iOS and Tesla app are updated to the latest versions. Restart your phone, and make sure you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
How to use my Apple Watch as a Tesla key?
Once the key is added to your iPhone's Apple Wallet, it should automatically sync to your paired Apple Watch. You can then use your Apple Watch similarly to your iPhone to unlock, lock, and start your Tesla.
How to remove a Tesla key from Apple Wallet?
Open the Apple Wallet app, select your Tesla key, tap the three dots (...) in the top right corner, scroll down, and tap "Remove Pass."
How to share my Tesla key with another person via Apple Wallet?
From your Apple Wallet, select your Tesla key, tap the share icon, and follow the prompts to share via iMessage. You can usually set specific permissions for the shared key.
How to ensure my iPhone battery doesn't die and leave me stranded?
While Apple Wallet keys can often work in "Power Reserve" mode even with a low battery, it's always best practice to keep your iPhone charged. You should also carry your physical Tesla key card as a backup.
Find out how to set up your Tesla phone key in this helpful video:
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