Every Tesla

Tag: keys

  • How to use Key Card and Key Fob with Model Y

    Key Card

    Tesla provides you with two Model Y key cards, designed to fit in your wallet.

    To use a key card to unlock or lock Model Y, position the card as shown and tap it against the card reader located approximately one third the way up of the driver’s side door pillar. When Model Y detects the key card, the exterior lights flash, the mirrors unfold or fold (if Fold Mirrors is on), the horn sounds (if Lock Confirmation Sound is on), and the doors unlock or lock.

    NOTE: You may need to physically touch the wireless phone charger or driver’s side door pillar with the key card, and you may need to hold it against the transmitter for one or two seconds.

    Once inside, power up Model Y by pressing the brake pedal within two minutes of scanning the key card. If you wait longer than two minutes, you must re-authenticate by placing the key card near the card reader located behind the cup holders on the center console. When your key card is detected, your two minute authentication period restarts.

    NOTE: If enabled, Walk-Away Door Lock operates only when you walk away using a phone key or passive key fob. When you walk away carrying your key card, Model Y does not automatically unlock/lock.

    CAUTION: Always carry your key card with you in your purse or wallet to use as a backup in case your authenticated phone has a dead battery, or is lost or stolen.

    Key Fob

    If you have purchased the key fob accessory (available for purchase from Tesla), you can quickly familiarize yourself with this key by thinking of it as a miniature version of Model Y, with the Tesla badge representing the front. The key has three buttons that feel like softer areas on the surface.

    1. Front trunk – Double-click to unlatch the front trunk.
    2. Lock/Unlock All – Single-click to lock doors and trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Double-click to unlock doors and trunks.
    3. Rear trunk – Double-click to unlatch the rear trunk. Hold down for one to two seconds to open the charge port door.

    Once inside, power up Model Y by pressing the brake pedal within two minutes of pressing the unlock button on the key fob (see Starting and Powering Off on page 50). 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 Y carrying the key fob, you do not need to point the key fob at Model Y 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 (phones, laptops, etc.).

    In the event that the key fob’s battery is dead, you can still use it to drive the vehicle by scanning the key fob on the card reader located on the driver’s side door pillar (like the key card) .

    NOTE: You can use the same key fob with multiple Model Y vehicles provided you authenticate it. However, key fob works with only one Model Y at a time. Therefore, to use a key fob for a different Model Y, touch its flat side against the card reader on the driver’s side door pillar.

    NOTE: Model Y 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 Locking and Unlocking

    NOTE: Only key fobs with the TESLA logo printed on the flat side support the passive locking and unlocking feature.

    Locking and unlocking Model Y 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 Y has sensors around the vehicle that can recognize the presence of a key fob within a range of approximately six feet (two meters). 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 powered liftgate’s exterior door handle. If Walk-Away Door Lock is enabled, Model Y automatically locks when you exit and the key fob is no longer in range. Passive locking and unlocking is automatically enabled when you pair your key fob to Model Y.

    Although you can use the same key fob with multiple vehicles, it can only be paired to one vehicle at a time. To activate a paired key fob to a different vehicle, touch the flat side onto the driver’s side door pillar and click any button on the key fob to confirm.

    NOTE: For increased security, passive locking and unlocking disables after being stationary for five minutes while within vehicle range when the vehicle is not in use (for example, you are standing outside your vehicle). In this situation, you must shake or press a button on the key fob to re-enable passive locking and unlocking.

    Replacing the Key Fob Battery

    Under normal use, the key fob has a battery that lasts for up to one year, 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:

    1. With the key fob placed button side down on a soft surface, release the bottom cover, using a small flat-bladed tool.
    2. Remove the battery by lifting it away from the retaining clips.
    3. While avoiding touching the battery’s flat surfaces, insert the new battery (type CR2032 ) with the ‘+’ side facing up.
    4. 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.
    5. Test that the key fob works by unlocking and locking Model Y.

      WARNING: Key fob batteries contain a chemical burn hazard and should not be ingested. The key fob contains a coin cell battery. If the coin cell battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns within two hours and can lead to death. Keep new and used batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children. If you think batteries might have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek immediate medical attention.

  • How to use phone as a key with Model Y

    Phone key

    You can set up your personal phone as a “phone key” that communicates with Model Y using Bluetooth. A phone key supports automatic locking and unlocking.

    Using your phone as a key is a convenient way to access your Model Y. As you approach, your phone’s Bluetooth signal is detected and doors unlock when you press a door handle. Likewise, when you exit and walk away with the phone key, doors automatically lock (provided the Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned on).

    Before you can use a phone to access Model Y, follow these steps to authenticate it:

    1. Download the Tesla mobile app to your phone.
    2. Log into the Tesla mobile app using your Tesla Account user name and password.
      NOTE: You must remain logged in to your Tesla Account to use your phone to access Model Y.
    3. Ensure that your phone’s Bluetooth settings are turned on.

    You must have your phone’s Bluetooth setting turned on AND you must also ensure that Bluetooth is turned on within your phone’s global settings for the Tesla mobile app. For example, on your phone, navigate to Settings, choose the Tesla mobile app, and ensure the Bluetooth setting is enabled.

    NOTE: Model Y communicates with your phone using Bluetooth. To authenticate your phone to use it as a key, the phone must be powered on and Bluetooth must be enabled. Keep in mind that your phone must have enough battery power to run Bluetooth and that many phones disable Bluetooth when the battery is low.

    1. Ensure location access is enabled by viewing the mobile app in your phone’s settings and selecting Location > Always. For the best experience, keep the mobile app running in the background.
    2. Ensure that Allow Mobile Access is enabled (Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access).
    3. In the Tesla mobile app, touch PHONE KEY then touch START to search for your Model Y.
      When your Model Y is detected, the mobile app asks you to tap your key card.
    4. Tap the key card against the Model Y card reader on the door pillar or center console.

    When Model Y detects your key card, the mobile app confirms that your phone key has been successfully authenticated. Touch DONE.

    If the key card is not successfully scanned within approximately thirty seconds, the mobile app displays an error message. To retry, touch PHONE KEY again in the Tesla mobile app.

    To view a list of keys that can currently access Model Y, or to remove a phone key, touch Controls > Locks

    Authenticating your phone allows you to use it as a key to access Model Y.

    Model Y can connect to three phone keys simultaneously. Therefore, if more than one phone key is detected and you want to use, or authenticate, a different phone, move the other connected phone key(s) out of range or turn off its Bluetooth setting.

    Unlike the mobile app, once a phone has been authenticated, it no longer requires an internet connection to be used as a phone key for Model Y. Authenticated phone keys communicate with Model Y using Bluetooth. However, to use the phone hands-free, access your phone’s contacts, play media from it, etc., you must also pair it and connect it as a Bluetooth device.

    NOTE: Although Bluetooth typically communicates over distances of up to approximately 30 feet (9 meters), performance can vary based on the phone you are using, environmental interference, etc.

    NOTE: If multiple vehicles are linked to your Tesla account, you must ensure that the vehicle you want the mobile app to access is currently selected on the mobile app.

  • How to add and remove keys on Model 3

    To display a list of all keys (phones, key cards, and key fobs) that can access your Tesla Model 3, touch Controls >Locks.

    An icon displays next to each key to indicate whether the key is a phone, key card, or key fob. Use this list to manage keys that have access to your vehicle. To add or delete keys, see Adding and Removing Keys section below.

    NOTE: You can use the same key for more than one Model 3. This prevents you from having to deal with multiple keys when you switch vehicles. If you customize the name of an authenticated key card or key fob on one Model 3 (by touching the pencil icon), any other Model 3 to which the key card or key fob is authenticated also displays the same customized name.

    NOTE: Model 3 supports up to 19 keys. When you reach this limit, you must delete a key before adding a new one.

    Adding and Removing Keys

    Adding a new key card or key fob:

    NOTE: If adding a key fob, ensure the key fob is at room temperature. Pairing may be unsuccessful if the key fob is cold.

    1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks then touch + in the Keys section.
    2. Scan your new key card or key fob on the key reader behind the cup holders on the top of the center console. After the new key card or key fob is recognized, remove it from the key reader.
    3. Scan an already-authenticated (i.e. already has access to the vehicle) key card or key fob on the key reader behind the cup holders on the top of the center console.
    4. When complete, the key list on the touchscreen displays the newly-authenticated key. You can customize its name by touching the associated pencil icon.

    Adding a new phone key:

    NOTE: To add a new phone key, Bluetooth must be enabled and the phone must have the Tesla mobile app installed and connected to the vehicle’s Tesla account.

    1. While sitting in the vehicle, open the Tesla mobile app and select the appropriate vehicle (if there are multiple vehicles associated with the account), then touch Phone Key > Start.
    2. Scan an already-authenticated key card or key fob on the key reader behind the cup holders on the top of the center console.
    3. When the mobile app notifies you that the pairing was successful, touch Done. The key list on the touchscreen (Controls > Locks) displays the new phone key. The name of the phone key is determined by the name used in the phone’s settings.

    Removing a key:

    When you no longer want a key to access your vehicle (for example, you lost your phone or key card, etc.), you can remove the key.

    1. On the touchscreen, touch Controls > Locks.
    2. Find the key that you would like to delete in the key list, then touch the key’s associated trash icon.
    3. When prompted, scan an already-authenticated key card or key fob on the key reader behind the cup holders on the top of the center console to confirm the deletion. When complete, the key list no longer includes the deleted key.

    NOTE: Your vehicle requires at least one authenticated key card or key fob at all times. If only one key card is included on the key list, this key cannot be deleted.

  • How to use Key Fob with Model 3

    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.

    1. Front trunk – Double-click to open the front trunk.
    2. Lock/Unlock All – Single-click to lock doors and trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Double-click to unlock doors and trunks.
    3. 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:

    1. With the key fob placed button side down on a soft surface, release the bottom cover.
    2. Remove the battery by lifting it away from the retaining clips.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.

  • How to use phone as a key with Model 3

    Authenticated phone – You can set up your personal smartphone to communicate with Model 3 using Bluetooth. Supports automatic locking and unlocking as well as several other functions using the Tesla mobile app

    Using your phone is a convenient way to access your Model 3. As you approach, your phone’s Bluetooth signal is detected and doors unlock when you press a door handle. Likewise, when you exit and walk away with the phone, doors automatically lock (provided the Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned on). Before you can use a phone to access Model 3, follow these steps to authenticate it:

    1. Download the Tesla mobile app to your phone.
    2. Log into the Tesla mobile app using your Tesla Account user name and password.
      NOTE: You must remain logged in to your Tesla Account to use your phone to access Model 3.
    3. Ensure that your phone’s Bluetooth settings are turned on.

    You must have your phone’s Bluetooth setting turned on AND you must also ensure that Bluetooth is turned on within your phone’s global settings for the Tesla mobile app. For example, on your phone, navigate to Settings, choose the Tesla mobile app, and ensure the Bluetooth setting is enabled.

    NOTE: Model 3 communicates with your phone using Bluetooth. To authenticate your phone or use it as a key, the phone must be powered on and Bluetooth must be enabled. Keep in mind that your phone must have enough battery power to run Bluetooth and that many phones disable Bluetooth when the battery is low.

    1. Ensure that Allow Mobile Access (Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access) is enabled.
    2. In the Tesla mobile app, touch PHONE KEY then touch START to search for your Model 3. When your Model 3 is detected, the mobile app asks you to tap your key card.
    3. Tap the key card against the Model 3 card reader on the door pillar or center console.

    When Model 3 detects your key card, the mobile app confirms that your phone has been successfully authenticated. Touch DONE.

    If the key card is not successfully scanned within approximately two minutes, the mobile app displays an error message. Touch PHONE KEY on the app again to retry.

    To view a list of keys that can currently access Model 3, or to remove a phone, touch Controls > Locks.

    NOTE: Authenticating your phone allows you to use it as a key to access Model 3. To use the phone handsfree, access your phone’s contacts, play media from it, etc., you must also pair and connect to it using the Bluetooth settings.

    NOTE: Model 3 can connect to three phones simultaneously. Therefore, if more than one phone is detected and you want to use, or authenticate, a different phone, move the other connected phone(s) out of range or turn off its Bluetooth setting.

    NOTE: Unlike the mobile app, once a phone has been authenticated, it no longer requires an internet connection to communicate with Model 3. Authenticated phones communicate with Model 3 using Bluetooth.

    NOTE: Although Bluetooth typically communicates over distances of up to approximately 30 feet (9 meters), performance can vary based on the phone you are using, environmental interference, etc.

    NOTE: If multiple vehicles are linked to the Tesla Account, you must switch the mobile app to the vehicle that you want to access before you can use the phone as a key.

  • How to use Driver Profiles on Model Y

    Creating a Driver Profile

    When you first adjust the driver’s seat, steering wheel, or driver’s side mirror, the touchscreen prompts you to create a driver profile to save these adjustments. Your profile also saves some of the preferences you make using the touchscreen’s Controls window.

    To add a new driver profile, touch the driver profile icon at the top of the touchscreen. Then touch Add New Driver, type the driver’s name and touch Create Profile. Follow the on-screen instructions to save the seating position to the driver profile. You can also check the Use Easy Entry checkbox if you want to save (or use existing) Easy Entry settings (described below) in which the driver’s seat and the steering wheel are automatically adjusted to make it easy to enter and exit Model Y.

    If you change the position of the steering wheel, driver’s seat, or driver’s side mirror after you have saved or chosen a driver profile, the touchscreen prompts you to save the new position or restore the previously saved position (other settings are automatically saved). To change a setting without saving or restoring, just ignore the prompt. To adjust Tesla Model Y based on a driver’s profile, touch the driver profile icon and choose the driver name. The saved adjustments are automatically made.

    NOTE: Valet mode is a built-in driver profile used to limit speed and restrict access to some Model Y features.

    NOTE: To stop automatic adjustments that are in process based on a driver’s profile, touch Stop on the Driver Profile dropdown menu. Automatic adjustments also stop if you manually adjust a seat, mirror or the steering wheel.

    Easy Entry

    You can define an Easy Entry setting that moves the steering wheel and driver’s seat to make it easy to enter and exit Model Y. Any driver can use the Easy Entry setting by associating it with their driver’s profile. When the Easy Entry setting is associated with a driver’s profile, the steering wheel and driver’s seat automatically adjust when the park gear is engaged and the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, allowing an easy exit from the vehicle. When returning to the vehicle and stepping on the brake pedal, settings automatically adjust back to the settings used by the most recent driver profile (or based on the key if it’s linked to a driver profile).

    To use Easy Entry with a driver profile, ensure the Use Easy Entry box is checked.

    WARNING: Never use Easy Entry to move the driver’s seat to the full rearward position when a child safety seat is installed on a rear seat located behind the driver’s seat. With reduced clearance, the movement of the seat may impact a child’s legs, cause injury, or dislodge the seat.

    Restoring a Driver’s Profile

    To adjust Model Y based on a driver’s profile, touch the driver profile icon on the touchscreen’s status bar. Then choose the driver and Model Y is adjusted based on the settings that have been saved to the chosen driver profile.

    Saved Settings

    A subset of the settings that you choose from the Controls window to customize your Model Y is also saved to your driver’s profile. The settings that are associated with driver profiles may vary depending on the version of software currently installed on your Model Y.

    Linking a Driver Profile to a Key

    You can link a driver profile to a key (or keys) to allow Model Y to automatically select the correct driver profile when the linked key is detected as you approach the vehicle and open the driver’s door. To link a driver profile to a key, first ensure you are using your desired driver profile. Navigate to Controls > Locks and touch the + icon. You can add an authenticated phone, key card, or key fob by following the on-screen instructions. When finished pairing, touch the driver icon to link the key to the desired driver profile. The name of the driver profile will appear under the key to show that it is linked.

    NOTE: Model Y can support up to 19 linked keys including authenticated phones, key cards, and up to four key fobs. However, Model Y only supports up to 10 driver profiles. You can link multiple keys to a driver profile, but you cannot link multiple driver profiles to a single key.