Tired of fumbling for your key fob? The Tesla Model S offers a seamless and convenient alternative: using your smartphone as your key. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to set up your phone as a key for your Tesla Model S, ensuring you’re ready to hit the road with just your phone in your pocket.
Prerequisites for Setting Up Your Tesla Model S Phone Key
Before you begin, ensure you have the following in place:
- Tesla Mobile App: Download and install the official Tesla mobile app from your phone’s app store (Apple App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android).
- Tesla Account Login: Log in to the Tesla mobile app using your existing Tesla account credentials. This is the same username and password you use for your Tesla account online.
- Bluetooth Enabled: Verify that Bluetooth is enabled in your phone’s general settings. Additionally, ensure Bluetooth access is specifically granted to the Tesla mobile app within your phone’s app settings.
- Location Access: Grant the Tesla mobile app permission to access your location, and ideally set it to “Always” for optimal performance. This allows your Model S to detect your phone as you approach.
- Mobile Access Enabled on Vehicle: On your Tesla Model S touchscreen, navigate to “Controls” > “Safety” > “Allow Mobile Access” and ensure this feature is enabled.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Phone Key
Once you’ve confirmed the prerequisites, follow these steps to set up your smartphone as a key for your Tesla Model S:
- Open the Tesla Mobile App: Launch the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone while you are inside or near your Tesla Model S.
- Initiate Phone Key Setup: On the app’s main screen, tap “Set Up Phone Key.” Alternatively, you can navigate to “Security” > “Set Up Phone Key” within the app.
- Follow Prompts: Carefully follow the on-screen instructions displayed on both your Tesla mobile app and your Model S touchscreen to complete the phone key setup process. The app will guide you through pairing your phone with your vehicle.
Important Considerations for Using Your Phone as a Key Fob for Tesla Model S
- Bluetooth is Key: Your Tesla Model S communicates with your phone via Bluetooth. Ensure Bluetooth is always enabled on your phone when you intend to use it as a key.
- Phone Battery Life: Remember that Bluetooth usage consumes battery power. A low phone battery might disable Bluetooth, potentially preventing your phone from functioning as a key. Keep your phone charged to avoid any inconvenience.
- Primary Key Designation: The phone key is set as the primary key by default. Your Model S uses Bluetooth proximity detection to sense your phone.
- Security Awareness: If you leave your phone inside your Tesla Model S with Bluetooth active, it’s akin to leaving traditional keys inside an unlocked car. Even locking the car via the app in this scenario might not fully secure it, as the car can still detect the phone key inside and unlock when the door handle is pulled.
- Locking Yourself Inside: To securely lock yourself inside your Model S, you must close all doors and use the lock icon on the touchscreen. This action temporarily overrides phone key settings like Walk-Away Door Lock, ensuring the doors remain locked even with your phone inside.
By following these steps and understanding the important considerations, you can effortlessly set up and utilize your smartphone as a convenient and modern key for your Tesla Model S, enhancing your ownership experience and leaving your traditional key fob behind.
