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Need a Spare Key for Your 2024 Tesla Model 3? Here Are Your Best Options (US)

If you only have one way to access and drive your 2024 Tesla Model 3, getting a spare now can prevent a stressful lockout later. Tesla uses Phone Key plus RFID key cards (and optional key fob) instead of a traditional cut key. The good news: adding a spare is usually quick if you still have at least one working key method.

Understanding Your Situation

You realized you don’t have a reliable backup (extra key card, an additional Phone Key, or an optional key fob). This is common after buying the car used, switching phones, losing a card, or only setting up one driver’s phone.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you currently have that works: Phone Key, key card(s), or key fob (if equipped).
  2. In the Tesla app, verify you can access the car and that your account has the permissions needed to manage keys.
  3. Plan your spare method: at minimum, add an extra key card and set up a second Phone Key (another driver or a backup phone).

Your Options

Add/replace Tesla Key Card (recommended baseline spare)

Cost: $20-$50 Time: Same day

Purchase an additional Tesla key card and pair it to the vehicle using the car’s Locks/Keys menu. Pairing typically requires an existing authenticated key (like a working key card or phone key with proper access).

✓ Pros:
  • Simple, reliable backup that works even if your phone battery is dead
  • No batteries to replace in the card
  • Usually the lowest-cost spare option
✗ Cons:
  • Must be carried separately (wallet/purse) and tapped to unlock/start
  • Pairing generally requires at least one working key method

Set up a second Phone Key (another driver or backup phone)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Add another authorized driver in the Tesla app and pair their phone as a Phone Key. This creates a practical spare if your primary phone is lost, damaged, or out of battery (assuming the second phone is available).

✓ Pros:
  • Free and convenient for households with multiple drivers
  • No extra hardware to buy
  • Can be managed/removed through the Tesla app
✗ Cons:
  • Depends on a working phone and Bluetooth
  • If you lose account access or have no connectivity, management can be harder
  • Not ideal as the only backup

Buy and pair the optional Tesla Key Fob (if you want a traditional remote)

Cost: $175-$250 Time: 1-7 days

Purchase Tesla’s key fob accessory and pair it to the car. It provides button-based lock/unlock and can be a convenient spare for drivers who prefer a physical remote.

✓ Pros:
  • Most familiar “remote” experience
  • Convenient for valet/temporary drivers
  • Useful if you prefer not to rely on phones
✗ Cons:
  • Higher cost than a key card
  • Battery replacement needed over time
  • Still needs pairing and should be tested before relying on it

Tesla Service (mobile or service center) for key purchase/pairing help

Cost: $0-$200 Time: 1-7 days

Schedule service through the Tesla app to purchase keys/cards and get help pairing—especially helpful if you have limited access methods or ownership/account issues to resolve.

✓ Pros:
  • Best option if you’re missing keys or can’t pair a new one yourself
  • Can resolve account/ownership verification issues
  • Professional setup and confirmation
✗ Cons:
  • Appointment availability varies by location
  • May require proof of ownership/identity
  • Not always same-day

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t wait until you’re down to zero access methods—pair spares while you still have a working key card/phone key.

✕ Avoid buying used key fobs/cards from unknown sources; you may waste money if they can’t be paired or are problematic.

✕ Don’t store your only spare in the car (or in a place you can’t reach if the car won’t unlock).

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until emergency
  • Not testing spare immediately
  • Buying incompatible aftermarket
  • Overpaying at dealership

Frequently Asked Questions

How many keys should I have for a 2024 Tesla Model 3?

At minimum: two working access methods (for example, a Phone Key plus at least one key card). Many owners prefer two key cards and two Phone Keys (one per primary driver), with an optional key fob if they want a traditional remote.

Can I add a new key card or key fob myself?

Usually yes, as long as you have an existing authenticated key method and the right permissions on the vehicle. Pairing is done from the car’s touchscreen under Locks/Keys. If you can’t pair it due to access or account issues, Tesla Service can help.

What if my phone is lost or dead—can I still drive?

Yes, if you have a paired Tesla key card (or key fob). That’s why a key card is the most important backup to keep in your wallet or another secure place.

Do I need to go to a locksmith for a spare key for a Tesla Model 3?

Typically no. Tesla access is managed through Phone Key, key cards, and optional key fobs rather than a traditional cut key. Tesla Service or Tesla-purchased accessories are the most common path.

Will adding a spare key remove or affect my existing keys?

Adding a new key generally doesn’t remove existing keys. However, it’s a good idea to review your key list in the car/app and remove any keys you don’t recognize (for security).

⏱️ Urgency Note: Low urgency if you currently have at least two working access methods. Higher urgency if you only have one (especially only a Phone Key), because a dead phone, app issue, or lost device can leave you stranded.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Tesla Model 3.

View Model 3 Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04