If you have purchased the key fob accessory (available for purchase from Tesla stores or online), you can quickly familiarize yourself with this key by thinking of it as a miniature version of Model 3, with the Tesla badge representing the front. The key has three buttons that feel like softer areas on the surface.
- Front trunk – Double-click to open the front trunk.
- Lock/Unlock All – Single-click to lock doors and trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Double-click to unlock doors and trunks.
- Rear trunk – Double-click to open the rear trunk. Hold down for one to two seconds to open the charge port door.
Once inside, power up Model 3 by pressing the brake pedal within two minutes of pressing the unlock button on the key fob. If you wait longer than two minutes, you must press the unlock button again, or place the key fob near the card reader located behind the cup holders on the center console. When your key fob is detected, the two minute authentication period restarts.
When approaching or leaving Model 3 carrying the key fob, you do not need to point the key fob at Model 3 as you press a button, but you must be within operating range.
Radio equipment on a similar frequency can affect the key. If this happens, move the key at least one foot (30 cm) away from other electronic devices (phone, laptop, etc.).
If the key fob does not work (for example, its battery is dead), you can touch its flat side against the card reader on the driver’s side door pillar (like the key card).
NOTE: You can use the same key fob with multiple Model 3 vehicles provided you authenticate it (see Managing Keys on page 11). However, key fob works with only one Model 3 at a time. Therefore, to use a key fob for a different Model 3, touch its flat side against the card reader on the driver’s side door pillar.
NOTE: Model 3 supports up to four different key fobs.
CAUTION: Protect the key from impact, high temperatures, and damage from liquids. Avoid contact with solvents, waxes and abrasive cleaners.
Passive Key Fob
Due market region or vehicle configuration, Passive Key Fob may not be available for your vehicle.
Locking and unlocking Model 3 with your key fob is conveniently hands-free. Although you must be carrying a paired key fob, there is no need to use it.
Model 3 has sensors around the vehicle that can recognize the presence of a key fob within a range of approximately three feet (one meter). Therefore, you can keep your key fob in your pocket or purse and simply pull on the door handle to unlock. When carrying your key fob with you, you can also open the trunk without having to use the key by pressing the trunk’s exterior door handle. If Walk-Away Lock is on, your vehicle automatically locks when you exit and senses that the key fob is no longer in range, Passive key fob is automatically enabled when you pair your key fob to your vehicle.
The key fob can only be paired to one vehicle at a time. If you want your key fob to passively lock and unlock for a different vehicle, touch the flat side of the key fob onto the driver’s side door pillar or center console card reader. You only need to do this once to pair it to your desired vehicle. You must pair your key fob every time you use it with a different vehicle.
NOTE: Only key fobs with the TESLA logo printed on the flat side have the passive locking and unlocking functionality. Key fobs with the MODEL 3 logo printed on the flat side cannot passively lock and unlock your vehicle.
NOTE: For increased security, your key fob disables itself after five minutes of being stationary while in range but the vehicle is not in use. The vehicle will not lock or unlock passively when this occurs. Shake or press a button on your key fob to wake it up.
Replacing the Key Fob Battery
Under normal use, the accessory key fob has a battery that lasts for up to five years, depending on key fob version and selected vehicle settings. When the battery is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.
To replace the key fob battery:
- With the key fob placed button side down on a soft surface, release the bottom cover.
- Remove the battery by lifting it away from the retaining clips.
- While avoiding touching the battery’s flat surfaces, insert the new battery (type CR2032) with the ‘+’ side facing up.
NOTE: CR2032 batteries can be purchased through online retailers, local supermarkets, and drug stores. - Holding the bottom cover at an angle, align the tabs on the cover with the corresponding slots on the key fob, then press the cover firmly onto the key fob until it snaps into place.
- Test that the key fob works by unlocking and locking your vehicle.
Attaching a Lanyard
To attach a lanyard, release the bottom cover as described above. Place the lanyard over the pin located between the slots on the widest side of the key fob. Realign the cover and snap into place.