Losing your Tesla Key Card can be an unfortunate and stressful situation, but don’t worry; there are steps you can take to resolve this issue and regain access to your Tesla vehicle.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to do if you find yourself in this predicament, covering everything from locating the lost Key Card to alternative methods of vehicle access.
How to Find a Lost Tesla Key Card?
Before diving into the steps to replace a lost Tesla Key Card, it’s essential to make an effort to locate it. Here are some tips to help you find your lost Key Card:
Check Common Places: Start by checking the common places where you usually keep your Key Card, such as your wallet, purse, or glove compartment. It’s easy for the card to slip into these familiar spots.
Retrace Your Steps: Think about where you last used your Key Card. Retrace your steps and visit those locations to see if you may have left it behind. Perhaps it fell out of your pocket or got stuck in the seats.
Order a New One: If you’re unable to find your Key Card after a thorough search, use Tesla shop to order one.
While some blogs on the internet claim that the key card has GPS, it actually doesn’t have any tracking capability. It just contains a tiny RFID chip and nothing else. If you lose it, you can’t track it with any tracking tech.
How to Deactivate a Lost Tesla Key Card?
If you’re unable to locate your lost Tesla Key Card or suspect it may have been stolen, it’s crucial to deactivate it to prevent unauthorized access to your vehicle. Follow these steps to deactivate the lost Key Card:
- Use the Tesla touchscreen to go to Controls > Locks > Keys
- You should see all the paired Tesla keys there.
- Find the one that you just lost and use the trash can button next to it to delete it.
This step ensures that the lost Key Card can no longer be used to access your vehicle.
Wondering what if you find it after deleting the key card? Don’t worry about it. You can pair the key card again for the same vehicle using the Tesla Key Card Setup process.
What to Do After Losing Tesla Key Card?
Once you have lost your Tesla Key Card, you need an alternative method to access and drive your Tesla. Here are three easy alternatives:
1. Use Spare Key Card
With your Tesla, you have a couple of Key cards. If you have lost one, you should still have a spare key card to use.
Find the spare key card and use that.
2. Use Phone Key
The Tesla mobile app allows you to use your smartphone as a key. However, it will not work if you have not set up the phone key before. Because setting up the phone key requires the Key Card.
With the Phone Key enabled, you can lock, unlock, and start your Tesla using your smartphone as long as it is within Bluetooth range of the vehicle. This method is convenient and eliminates the need for a physical key card or fob.
3. Use Key Fob
If you have a Tesla Key Fob, you can use it to access your vehicle. Here’s how:
- Get your Key Fob.
- Press the top part (car ceiling) on the Key Fob to unlock the car.
- Once inside, place the Key Fob on the center console near the cupholders to start the vehicle.
The Key Fob serves as a reliable backup in case you lose your Key Card. However, it’s important to keep the Key Fob in a safe place to avoid any future issues with access.
Also, if you have a Key Fob but it’s not working. It should still open your vehicle if you place it on the B-pillar of your Tesla where the Key card scanner is located.
4. Program a New Tesla Key Card
If you’re unable to use your smartphone or Key Fob and need a physical Key Card for access, you can program a new Tesla Key Card as a replacement. Here’s how:
- Access your Tesla’s settings on the center touchscreen.
- Navigate to the “Locks” section.
- Select “Add Key Card” and follow the on-screen instructions to program a new Key Card.
Once the new Key Card is programmed, make sure to keep it in a safe place to avoid losing it again. It’s a good practice to have a spare Key Card just in case you encounter similar issues in the future.
5. Tesla Roadside Assistance or Service Appointment
In case you don’t have a Key card, key fob, or phone key that you can use to get into the Tesla, you need to call Tesla roadside assistance or schedule a service appointment. Experts should come and help you open the car.
Wrap Up
Losing your Tesla Key Card is an inconvenience, but with the right steps, you can quickly address the issue and regain access to your vehicle.
Remember to take precautions to prevent future losses and consider using multiple methods of key access for added convenience and security. By following these guidelines and staying proactive, you can ensure a smoother Tesla ownership experience.
How to Avoid Getting Locked Out of Tesla?
Losing your Tesla Key Card can be a frustrating experience, but you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of it happening again:
- Use Multiple Methods: Whenever possible, enable multiple methods of access, such as the Phone Key and Key Fob, in addition to your Key Card. Having backups ensures that you can still operate your Tesla if one method is unavailable.
- Secure Storage: If you prefer using the Key Card, consider purchasing a Key Card holder or a protective sleeve. This can help prevent wear and tear on the card and make it easier to locate.
- Create a Routine: Establish a routine for where you place your Key Card when you’re not using it. Consistency can help reduce the chances of misplacing it.
- Practice Awareness: Be mindful of where you use and store your Key Card. Make it a habit to check for its presence before leaving your vehicle or a location.