The Tesla Model S is renowned for its innovation, extending beyond its electric powertrain to the very way you interact with your vehicle. Forget traditional keys – the Model S embraces the future with its sophisticated key fob and the convenience of a phone key. This guide will walk you through setting up your smartphone as a Model S key, ensuring seamless access and control of your vehicle. Think of your smartphone as a digital extension of your Model S Key Fob, offering unparalleled ease and integration.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Phone as a Model S Key
Transforming your smartphone into a key for your Tesla Model S is a straightforward process, enabled by the Tesla mobile app. Here’s how to get started:
1. Download and Install the Tesla Mobile App
Your first step is to download the official Tesla mobile app from your phone’s app store (available on both iOS and Android). This app is your central hub for interacting with your Model S, from monitoring charging to controlling various vehicle functions, including setting up your phone key.
2. Log In to Your Tesla Account
Once the app is installed, open it and log in using your Tesla account credentials – the same username and password you use for your Tesla account online.
Note: Staying Logged In is Crucial
It’s important to remain logged into your Tesla account within the mobile app. This persistent connection is what allows your phone to communicate with your Model S and function as a key. If you log out, phone key access will be disabled.
Multiple Vehicles? Select the Correct One
If you have multiple Tesla vehicles linked to your account, ensure that the app is currently selecting the Model S you intend to set up the phone key for. You can usually switch between vehicles within the app’s settings or main screen.
3. Enable Bluetooth and Location Permissions
For your smartphone to function as a Model S key fob replacement, specific settings need to be enabled on your phone:
- General Bluetooth Settings: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled in your phone’s general settings. This allows your phone to communicate wirelessly with your Model S.
- Bluetooth Permission for Tesla App: Grant the Tesla app permission to use Bluetooth. You can typically find this setting within your phone’s app settings, specifically for the Tesla app. For instance, on many phones, you would go to Settings > Apps > Tesla > Permissions and ensure Bluetooth is toggled on.
- Location Access: Always Allow: Location services are vital for the phone key feature to work reliably. In your phone’s app settings, find the Tesla app and set Location permission to “Always” or “Allow all the time.” For optimal performance and seamless entry, it’s recommended to keep the Tesla app running in the background. This allows for quicker vehicle detection as you approach.
- Enable Mobile Access on Vehicle Touchscreen: Finally, navigate to your Model S touchscreen and enable mobile access. Go to Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access. This setting authorizes your vehicle to communicate with and be controlled by your mobile app.
Bluetooth and Battery Considerations
Model S uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with your phone key. Therefore, ensure your phone has sufficient battery life to maintain a Bluetooth connection. Low battery levels on your phone might lead to Bluetooth being disabled by your phone’s power-saving features, potentially interrupting your phone key functionality.
4. Initiate Phone Key Setup in the Tesla App
With all the prerequisites in place, you can now initiate the phone key setup process:
- Inside or Near Your Vehicle: Ensure you are either inside your Model S or in close proximity to it.
- Open Tesla Mobile App: Launch the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone.
- Start Setup: On the app’s main screen, look for and tap “Set Up Phone Key.” Alternatively, navigate to Security > Set Up Phone Key within the app.
- Follow Prompts: Carefully follow the on-screen prompts displayed on both your mobile app and your Model S touchscreen to complete the phone key setup process. These prompts will guide you through pairing your phone with your vehicle.
Understanding Phone Key as Primary Key and Security Implications
Upon successful setup, your phone key is designated as the “primary” key for your Model S. The vehicle utilizes Bluetooth to detect your phone’s proximity. It’s crucial to understand that the car cannot differentiate if your phone is inside or outside the vehicle.
Security Best Practices:
Leaving your phone inside your Model S with Bluetooth enabled is akin to leaving traditional keys inside an unlocked car. Even locking the doors via the mobile app in this scenario might not fully secure your vehicle. If a paired phone is inside, Model S may unlock when the exterior door handle is pulled because it detects the phone key.
To securely lock yourself inside the Model S, you must close the doors and use the lock icon on the touchscreen. This action temporarily overrides phone key settings like Walk-Away Door Lock. Otherwise, with your phone enabled as a key, the doors will unlock upon handle pull if your phone is detected nearby.
Conclusion: Embracing the Digital Key Fob Era with Model S
Setting up your phone as a Model S key is a testament to Tesla’s commitment to blending technology and convenience. By following these steps, you can enjoy keyless access to your vehicle, streamlining your daily interactions. While the traditional key fob remains an option, the phone key represents a significant leap towards a more integrated and user-friendly car ownership experience. Mastering your Model S key fob experience includes understanding and utilizing the powerful phone key feature to its full potential.
