Tesla Key Card Not Working: How to Get in?

Tesla’s Key Card is a convenient way to unlock and start your Tesla vehicle, but like any technology, it can sometimes encounter issues.

If you find yourself in a situation where your Tesla Key Card is not working, don’t worry; there are several potential reasons for this problem, and most of them have simple solutions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore common causes of Key Card issues and provide step-by-step solutions for each.

Why is My Tesla Key Card Not Working?

Let’s understand the various reasons why your Tesla Key Card may not be functioning as expected and find solutions to them.

1. Damaged Key Card

One of the most common reasons for Key Card malfunctions is physical damage. Over time, Tesla Key Cards can become scratched, bent, or cracked, making them less effective or entirely non-functional.

Solution:

If your Key Card is damaged, it’s essential to replace it promptly. You can order a Key Card from Tesla shop. Once you receive the new Key Card, you can pair it with your Tesla vehicle, and it should work flawlessly.

• On the Tesla touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks > Keys > Add Key
• Now, hold the key card against against center console for the car to recognize it.
• Once it recognizes the new key, scan an already paired Key Card or Key Fob to that same location for confirmation.

2. External Interference

Tesla Key Cards rely on wireless communication with the car’s reader, and external electromagnetic interference can disrupt this communication. Strong radio frequency signals or magnetic fields in the vicinity of the Key Card may hinder its functionality.

Solution:

If you suspect external interference is causing Key Card issues, try the following steps:

1. Move away from the potential source of interference, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, or any other electric device.
2. Attempt to use the Key Card in a different location to see if it works without issues. (B-pillar or center console)
3. If interference remains a persistent problem, consider contacting Tesla customer support for further assistance.

3. Software Bug

Like any technology, Tesla’s software can occasionally have bugs that affect the Key Card’s functionality. These issues may be related to the car’s firmware or the Tesla mobile app.

Solution:

To address software-related Key Card problems, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your Tesla vehicle is running the latest software version. You can check for updates by going to the “Software” section in your car’s touchscreen interface.
2. If an update is available, download and install it.
3. After updating, perform a force restart of the car’s touchscreen by holding down both steering wheel buttons simultaneously until the screen turns off and the Tesla logo reappears.
4. Restart your smartphone and ensure that the Tesla mobile app is up to date as well.

These steps can often resolve software-related Key Card issues.

4. Harsh Weather

Extreme weather conditions, such as freezing temperatures in the winter or scorching heat in the summer, can impact the performance of your Tesla Key Card. Extremely cold temperatures can make the Key Card less responsive, while excessive heat can cause warping.

Also, if you are using the key card for the first time, the weather you work on must be comfortable. Otherwise, the car might not recognize the Key Card.

To mitigate the impact of harsh weather on your Key Card, consider the following tips:

1. Store your Key Card in a protective case or wallet when not in use. This can help shield it from extreme temperatures.
2. In very cold conditions, ensure that your car is preconditioned before you attempt to open it with a key card.
3. Avoid leaving the Key Card exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures for extended periods.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your Key Card functions correctly, regardless of the weather.

5. Bad Key Card Reader

Sometimes, the issue may not be with your Key Card itself but with the car’s Key Card reader. A malfunctioning reader may not recognize any Key Card, leading to a frustrating experience.

Solution:

If you suspect that the Key Card reader in your Tesla is faulty, it’s best to contact Tesla service for a professional diagnosis and potential repair. Here’s how you can proceed:

1. Contact Tesla customer support or visit a Tesla service center to explain the issue.
2. Tesla technicians can assess the Key Card reader and determine whether it needs repair or replacement.
3. Follow their guidance to ensure your Key Card reader is functioning correctly.

By addressing any reader-related problems, you can ensure that your Key Card works seamlessly.

6. Key Card is Not Paired with the Car

When you obtain a new Key Card or have your Tesla vehicle serviced, you need to pair the Key Card with the car for it to function correctly.

Solution:

To pair a new Key Card with your Tesla vehicle, follow these steps:

1. Enter your car and ensure it’s unlocked.
2. Navigate to the “Controls” menu on your car’s touchscreen.
3. Select “Locks.”
4. Choose “Keys.”
5. Select “Add Key”
6. Scan your new Key card on the key card reader. Wait until it recognizes the key card.
7. Now, scan an old key card that is already paired with the car.

In Model X, the key card should be scanned in either of the positions shown in the image below-

In Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, the Key card needs to be scanned either behind the cup holder or on the B-pillar.

By following these steps, you can establish a connection between the Key Card and your vehicle, ensuring that it works as intended.

7. Mixed Key Cards with Other Tesla

If you own multiple Tesla vehicles and have several Key Cards, it’s crucial to use the correct Key Card with the corresponding car. Mixing up Key Cards can lead to authentication issues and Key Card malfunctions.

Solution:

To avoid confusion and ensure you’re using the right Key Card for your Tesla, consider the following steps:

1. Label or distinguish your Key Cards to indicate which vehicle they belong to.
2. Use phone key instead of a Key Card for day-to-day use. Keep the Key Card only for emergencies.

By organizing and labeling your Key Cards, you can prevent mix-ups and ensure that you always use the correct one.

Conclusion

Encountering issues with your Tesla Key Card can be frustrating, but there are numerous potential causes and straightforward solutions to address them.

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can quickly resolve most Key Card-related problems and continue enjoying the convenience of your Tesla vehicle. We also have a guide on the recently emerged issue of Tesla keeps asking for key card.

If you’ve tried these solutions and the problem persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tesla’s customer support or visit a Tesla service center for further assistance. Tesla’s experienced technicians can provide expert guidance and ensure that your Key Card and vehicle are in optimal working condition.