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

If you only have one working way to access and drive your 2024 Tesla Model Y, getting a spare is a smart move. Tesla uses Phone Key plus RFID key cards (and optional key fob), so you can add backups quickly through the Tesla app and vehicle screen.

Understanding Your Situation

You want an additional working “key” (backup access method) for convenience, emergencies, a second driver, or to avoid being stranded if your phone is lost, dead, or replaced.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm what you already have: at least one active Phone Key and at least one working key card (test lock/unlock and starting the car).
  2. In the car, go to Controls > Locks to see which keys are paired and remove any you don’t recognize.
  3. Decide your backup strategy: add a second Phone Key for another driver and/or buy an extra Tesla key card (and optionally the Tesla key fob).

Your Options

Buy an extra Tesla Key Card (recommended baseline backup)

Cost: $35-$60 Time: Same day (if in stock locally) / 2-7 days shipping

Purchase an additional Tesla RFID key card and pair it to your Model Y in Controls > Locks (you’ll typically need an existing authenticated key—like a working key card or Phone Key—to add it). Keep it in your wallet as a no-battery emergency backup.

✓ Pros:
  • Most reliable backup (no phone battery required)
  • Easy to store in a wallet and works even with poor cell service
✗ Cons:
  • Must be tapped on the B-pillar and placed on the console area to drive (not hands-free)
  • You need an existing working key to pair a new card

Add a second Phone Key (best for a second driver)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day (usually minutes)

Install the Tesla app on the second driver’s phone, sign in with appropriate access, and pair Phone Key via Bluetooth. This creates a convenient day-to-day key for another person while keeping key cards as backups.

✓ Pros:
  • Convenient and hands-free (walk-up unlock/start)
  • No hardware to buy
✗ Cons:
  • Depends on phone battery, Bluetooth, and app access
  • Requires proper account access and secure sharing practices

Buy and pair the Tesla Key Fob (optional convenience upgrade)

Cost: $175-$250 Time: Same day (if available) / 2-7 days shipping

Purchase the Tesla key fob and pair it through Controls > Locks. It provides a more traditional remote-style experience (varies by availability and features), while key cards remain the simplest emergency backup.

✓ Pros:
  • More traditional “key” experience than a card
  • Convenient for users who don’t want to rely on a phone
✗ Cons:
  • More expensive than key cards
  • Battery-powered device that can be lost or need maintenance

Tesla Service / Tesla Shop support (if you can’t add keys yourself)

Cost: $0-$200+ Time: 1-7 days (varies by appointment and verification)

If you don’t have any authenticated key left (or you’re locked out of the account), Tesla support/service may be required to restore access and help you add new keys. This may involve identity/ownership verification.

✓ Pros:
  • Best path if you’ve lost all keys or can’t authenticate
  • Ensures keys are added correctly and securely
✗ Cons:
  • Can take longer than buying a card/fob when you still have access
  • May require documentation and an appointment

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Buying used key cards/fobs from unknown sources—previous owners may have linked history, and you risk scams or non-functional hardware.

✕ Waiting until you’re down to zero access methods; adding spares is easiest while you still have at least one authenticated key.

✕ Sharing your Tesla account password; use proper account access management and remove old phones/keys you no longer control.

⚠️ 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 Y?

At minimum, have two independent ways to access and drive: at least one working Phone Key plus at least one working key card. Many owners keep two key cards (one carried, one stored securely at home).

Can a locksmith make a spare key for a Tesla Model Y?

Traditional key cutting doesn’t apply. Model Y uses Phone Key (app/Bluetooth) and RFID key cards, with an optional Tesla key fob. Most spares are added by pairing Tesla-provided cards/fobs through the vehicle’s Controls > Locks using an existing authenticated key.

Do I need cell service for Phone Key to work?

Phone Key primarily uses Bluetooth, so it can work without cell service. However, you still need a powered phone with Bluetooth enabled and the Tesla app set up.

What if I lost my phone—can I still drive with a key card?

Yes, a paired key card can unlock and allow driving by tapping the B-pillar to unlock and placing the card on the designated console reader area to enable driving.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Low urgency if you currently have at least two working access methods. High urgency if you only have one working key method (or you’re about to change phones), because adding a spare is much easier before you lose all authenticated access.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Model Y Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04