Key Fob Stolen high urgency

Key Fob Stolen: What to Do Now (2024 Tesla Model 3, US)

If your 2024 Tesla Model 3 key fob was stolen, treat it as an immediate vehicle-security issue. The goal is to quickly revoke the stolen fob’s access, confirm your account is protected, and arrange a replacement without getting locked out.

Understanding Your Situation

A stolen key fob may still be able to unlock and drive the vehicle if it remains paired/authorized. Even if you normally use Phone Key, a stolen fob can be used by someone else unless you remove it from the car’s authorized keys and secure your Tesla account.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Secure your Tesla account: change your Tesla account password, enable/confirm 2‑factor authentication, and review account access/devices in the Tesla app.
  2. Remove the stolen fob’s access as soon as possible: from the car’s touchscreen (Controls > Locks) remove the missing key/fob, or use the Tesla app to restrict access if available; if you can’t access the car, contact Tesla Support/Roadside for guidance.
  3. Protect the vehicle right now: park in a secure location if possible, enable PIN to Drive, verify Sentry Mode is on (where appropriate), and file a police report (useful for insurance and documentation).

Your Options

Revoke the stolen key/fob and rely on Phone Key (temporary solution)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Remove the stolen fob from the vehicle’s authorized keys, then use Phone Key and/or a key card as your primary access method while you arrange a replacement fob.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fastest way to reduce risk from the stolen fob
  • No parts required
  • Lets you keep driving while you replace the fob
âś— Cons:
  • You must be able to access the car (or get Tesla help) to remove the key
  • If you lose your phone or it dies, you’ll need a backup (key card)

Enable/confirm PIN to Drive (security hardening)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Turn on PIN to Drive so the car can’t be driven without entering a PIN, even if someone can unlock it. Keep the PIN private and avoid easily guessed numbers.

âś“ Pros:
  • Strong protection against theft-by-key access
  • Works alongside Phone Key, key cards, and fobs
âś— Cons:
  • Adds a step every time you drive
  • If you forget the PIN, you may need account recovery steps

Order a replacement Tesla key fob and pair it

Cost: $175-$300 Time: 1-7 days

Purchase a new key fob (typically through Tesla) and pair it to your Model 3. After pairing, confirm the stolen fob is deleted and test all remaining keys.

âś“ Pros:
  • Restores fob convenience (hands-free style access)
  • Official parts and compatibility for your vehicle
âś— Cons:
  • Cost and potential wait time for parts/appointment
  • May require an in-car pairing process and an existing authorized key/card

Tesla Service visit for key management (if you can’t remove the stolen key yourself)

Cost: $0-$200 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Schedule Tesla Service (or contact Tesla Support/Roadside) to help revoke the stolen fob and ensure only your current keys are authorized. This is useful if you’re locked out or unsure which keys remain active.

âś“ Pros:
  • Helpful if you’re locked out or unable to manage keys yourself
  • Reduces the chance of missing an authorized key during cleanup
âś— Cons:
  • Appointment availability varies
  • May involve towing/transport if you can’t access the car

Insurance claim + documentation (if theft attempt/damage occurred)

Cost: $0-$1,000+ Time: 1-14 days

If the vehicle was stolen, damaged, or broken into, file a claim and provide documentation (police report, timestamps, any Sentry footage).

âś“ Pros:
  • May cover repairs or theft-related losses depending on coverage
  • Creates a clear paper trail
âś— Cons:
  • Deductible may apply
  • Claims can affect premiums depending on policy and circumstances

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t wait to remove the stolen fob from authorized keys—treat it like a live credential until revoked.

✕ Don’t share Tesla account login details or verification codes with anyone claiming they can “help” recover access.

✕ Don’t rely on locking the car alone; enable PIN to Drive and confirm the stolen key is actually deleted.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not deactivating stolen key
  • Delaying reprogramming
  • Not filing police report
  • Ignoring security risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone drive my 2024 Tesla Model 3 with a stolen key fob?

Potentially, yes—if the stolen fob is still authorized on your vehicle. Remove the fob from Controls > Locks as soon as possible and enable PIN to Drive to reduce risk even if someone can unlock the car.

I mainly use Phone Key. Do I still need to worry about a stolen fob?

Yes. A stolen fob can still work independently if it remains paired/authorized. Revoke it from the vehicle’s key list and secure your Tesla account (password + 2FA).

Can I disable the stolen fob from the Tesla app?

Some key/security actions can be managed through the app, but key removal is commonly done from the car’s touchscreen under Controls > Locks. If you can’t access the car, contact Tesla Support/Roadside for next steps.

Will replacing the key fob automatically deactivate the stolen one?

Not automatically. You should explicitly remove the stolen fob from the authorized keys list. After pairing a new fob, re-check the list to confirm only your current keys remain.

What if I don’t have any backup access (no phone key and no key card)?

Contact Tesla Roadside Assistance/Support. They can guide identity verification and access recovery steps. Avoid third-party “unlock” services that request account credentials.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency: a stolen, still-authorized fob can provide immediate access to your vehicle. Revoke the key and enable PIN to Drive as soon as you safely can, then arrange replacement access.

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