To add phone key Tesla, open the Tesla app on your smartphone, ensure Bluetooth is enabled, select your vehicle, and tap Set Up next to Phone Key while standing near the car. Your phone then becomes the primary key to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle without a physical key fob or key card.
Before you start: requirements and settings
Before setting up the phone key, confirm the following prerequisites are met. Tesla says to use the latest Tesla app version and enable Bluetooth on the phone. Tesla’s service instructions add that Bluetooth must be enabled in the phone’s general settings and within the Tesla app’s Bluetooth settings, then you should be inside or near the vehicle when you start setup. On the vehicle’s touchscreen, go to Controls > Safety > Allow Mobile Access and ensure this setting is turned on. You must be inside or near the vehicle when you begin the setup process.
Setting up phone key from the Tesla app
The primary method to add phone key Tesla is through the Tesla mobile app. Setup is done while near the vehicle, in the Tesla app, with the exact label Phone Key and the button Set Up. Follow the on-screen prompts in the app and the instructions that appear on the vehicle’s touchscreen. The phone key feature uses Bluetooth to connect your phone to the car, enabling automatic locking and unlocking once setup is complete.
Setting up phone key from the vehicle touchscreen
An alternative method is to start from the vehicle’s touchscreen. On the main screen, look for the Set Up Phone Key prompt. Tap it, then follow the instructions displayed on both the touchscreen and in the Tesla app on your phone. The app will guide you through the remaining steps to pair your phone as a key.
Pairing a key card as a backup
During the phone key setup, the system may require you to pair a key card as a backup. Tesla’s service instructions say to pair through Security & Drivers and Add Key Card if needed. Select Add Key Card and tap the key card on the designated area, such as the center console or B-pillar, to complete the pairing. This ensures you have a physical backup method to access and drive the car if your phone is unavailable.
Using your phone key
The phone key feature uses Bluetooth and is the vehicle’s primary key feature. Once set up, the phone key works automatically via Bluetooth. Tesla’s manuals document automatic locking and unlocking as Phone Key behavior. As you approach your Tesla with the phone in your pocket or bag, the vehicle detects the phone and unlocks the doors. When you walk away, the car automatically locks. To start driving, simply press the brake pedal while the phone is inside the vehicle. The Tesla mobile app must be running in the background for the phone key to function properly. For charging at home or on the road, you may also use the Tesla mobile connector to plug into a standard outlet, though this is separate from the phone key feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add multiple phones as keys for my Tesla?
Yes, you can add multiple phones as keys. Each phone must follow the same setup process in the Tesla app while near the vehicle. This is useful for households with multiple drivers.
What happens if my phone battery dies?
If your phone battery dies, you can still access and start your Tesla using the backup key card or a key fob. The key card taps against the B-pillar to unlock and is placed on the designated area to start the vehicle.
Is the phone key secure?
Yes, the phone key uses encrypted communication and advanced authentication protocols between the app and the vehicle, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access your car.
What should I do if I lose my phone?
If your phone is lost or stolen, log into your Tesla account on a web browser and remove the phone key access for that device. Contact Tesla support to report the incident and request further assistance in disabling access.
Do I need an internet connection for the phone key to work?
The phone key operates over Bluetooth and does not require an active internet connection on your phone for locking, unlocking, or starting the vehicle. However, the Tesla app needs internet access for initial setup and for remote commands like climate control.
