Model S supports a total of 19 keys, which can include phone keys, key cards, and up to four key fobs (see Managing Keys.

Using your phone as a key is a convenient way to access your Model S. As you approach, your phone's Bluetooth signal is detected and the doors unlock when you press a door handle. Likewise, when you exit and walk away with the phone key, doors automatically lock (provided the Walk-Away Door Lock feature is turned on; see Walk-Away Door Lock).

Once a phone has been authenticated, it no longer requires an internet connection to be used as a phone key for Model S. However, to use the phone hands-free, access your phone's contacts, play media from it, etc., you must also pair it and connect it as a Bluetooth device (see Bluetooth).

Some smartphones with NFC capability can be used to lock/unlock your vehicle, just like using a key card. Ensure the Tesla mobile app is correctly paired to your vehicle and enable the NFC function on your phone. Once enabled, simply hold the phone to the driver's side door pillar to lock or unlock the door. Refer to your smartphone's instructions for specific information on how to do this.

Tesla provides you with two Model S key cards, designed to fit in your wallet.

Once inside, power up Model S by pressing the brake pedal within two minutes of scanning the key card (see Starting and Powering Off). If you wait longer than two minutes, you must re-authenticate by placing the key card near the card reader located in the wireless phone charger on the center console. When your key card is detected, your two minute authentication period restarts.

You can quickly familiarize yourself with the key fob by thinking of it as a miniature version of a Model S, with the Tesla badge representing the front. The key has buttons that feel like softer areas on the surface.

1. Rear trunk - Double-click to open or close the rear trunk. Hold down for one to two seconds to open the charge port door.
2. Lock/Unlock All - Single-click to lock doors and trunks (all doors and trunks must be closed). Double-click to unlock doors and trunks.
3. Front trunk - Double-click to unlatch the front trunk.

Once inside, power up Model S by pressing the brake pedal within two minutes of pressing the unlock button on the key fob (see Starting and Powering Off). If you wait longer than two minutes, you must press the unlock button again, or place the key fob near the card reader located in the lower half of the left wireless phone charger, facing downward, on the center console. When your key fob is detected, the two minute authentication period restarts.

When approaching or leaving Model S carrying the key fob, you do not need to point the key fob at Model S as you press a button, but you must be within operating range.

Radio equipment on a similar frequency can affect the key. If this happens, move the key at least one foot (30 cm) away from other electronic devices (phones, laptops, etc.).

In the event that the key fob's battery is dead, you can still use it. To unlock the vehicle, scan the key fob on the card reader located on the driver's side door pillar (like the key card).

To drive the vehicle, scan the key fob on the phone charger.

1. Place it at the top of the left phone charger, against the center divider.
2. Point the front of the key fob down.
3. Swipe downwards.

Instructions for changing the battery are provided in Replacing the Key Fob Battery.

To display a list of all keys that can access your Model S, touch Controls > Locks. An icon displays next to each key to indicate whether the key is a phone key, key card, or key fob. Use this list to manage keys that have access to your Model S.

Model S supports up to 19 keys at a time. Four of those keys can be key fobs. When you reach this limit, you must delete a key before adding a new one.

You can pair a key card or key fob to multiple Tesla vehicles. This prevents you from having to deal with multiple keys when you switch vehicles. Key cards and key fobs can be paired and used with many vehicles at a time. Pairing with a vehicle enables you to access the vehicle and enable driving.

Under normal use, the key fob has a battery that lasts for up to one year, depending on key fob version and selected vehicle settings. When the battery is low, a message displays on the touchscreen.

To replace the key fob battery:

1. With the key fob placed button side down on a soft surface, release the bottom cover, using a small flat-bladed tool.

   

2. Remove the battery by lifting it away from the retaining clips.

   

3. While avoiding touching the battery's flat surfaces, insert the new battery (type CR2330) with the ‘+’ side facing up.
   Note

   Wipe the battery clean before fitting and avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces. Finger marks on the flat surfaces of the battery can reduce battery life.
   Note

   CR2330 batteries can be purchased from any retailer that sells batteries.
4. Holding the bottom cover at an angle, align the tabs on the cover with the corresponding slots on the key fob, then press the cover firmly onto the key fob until it snaps into place.
5. Test that the key fob works by unlocking and locking Model S.

If you lose a key card or key fob, you can purchase replacement ones on the Tesla Shop. When ready to pair, simply follow the steps in Managing Keys. Remember to remove your old key cards from Controls > Locks > Keys for security purposes.