Tesla Phone Key Disabled (Easy Ways To Fix!)

The Tesla phone key is a revolutionary feature that allows Tesla owners to use their smartphones as keys to unlock, lock, and start their vehicles.

It eliminates the need for a traditional key fob and provides a convenient and seamless user experience. However, there are instances where the Tesla phone key may fail to function properly, causing frustration and inconvenience for the owner.

In this troubleshooting guide, we will explore the potential causes of a Tesla phone key not working and provide you with practical solutions to resolve the issue.

By following these steps, you can regain full control of your Tesla and enjoy the seamless experience that the phone key feature offers.

Table of Contents

2. Possible Causes of Tesla Phone Key Not Working

There are several potential causes for a Tesla phone key not working. Understanding these causes will help you diagnose the problem and find an appropriate solution.

Here are some common reasons why your Tesla phone key may not be functioning correctly:

1. Bluetooth Connection Issues

One of the most common causes of a Tesla phone key not working is Bluetooth connection issues. The phone key relies on a stable Bluetooth connection between your smartphone and your Tesla. If there is a problem with the Bluetooth connection, the phone key may not function correctly.

This can happen due to a range of factors, such as interference from other devices, outdated software, or a weak Bluetooth signal.

2. Software Glitches

Software glitches can also cause the Tesla phone key to malfunction. If there is a bug or error in the Tesla app or the car’s software, it can affect the performance of the phone key feature.

These glitches can occur due to outdated software versions, compatibility issues, or temporary software hiccups.

3. Phone Key Setup Problems

Improper setup of the phone key can be another reason why it is not working as expected. If the phone key was not set up correctly during the initial pairing process, it may fail to communicate with the car effectively.

This can result in the phone key not being recognized or responding properly.

4. Interference from Other Devices

Interference from other devices can disrupt the Bluetooth connection between your phone and your Tesla, causing the phone key to malfunction.

Other smartphones, laptops, or electronic devices in close proximity to your Tesla can interfere with the Bluetooth signal, leading to connectivity issues.

5. Network Connectivity Problems

Network connectivity problems can also prevent the Tesla phone key from working correctly. The phone key relies on a stable network connection to communicate with the car and perform its functions.

If there is a problem with your phone’s network connection or if the car’s network connectivity is weak or unavailable, it can affect the performance of the phone key.

6. Faulty Reader

In some cases, a faulty card reader in the car can cause the phone key not to work. The card reader is responsible for scanning and recognizing the phone key, and if it is damaged or malfunctioning, it may fail to detect the phone key properly.

3. Troubleshooting Solutions

Now that we have identified the potential causes of a Tesla phone key not working, let’s explore the troubleshooting solutions to resolve the issue.

Follow these step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and fix any problems you may be experiencing with your Tesla phone key.

1 Check Bluetooth Connection

Start by ensuring that the Bluetooth connection between your phone and your Tesla is active and stable. Follow these steps to check and troubleshoot the Bluetooth connection:

On your phone, go to the settings menu and navigate to the Bluetooth settings.
Make sure Bluetooth is turned on and search for available devices.
On your Tesla’s touchscreen, go to the Bluetooth settings and check if your phone is listed as a paired device. If it is not listed, follow the pairing process to connect your phone to your Tesla.
If your phone is already paired, try unpairing it and pairing it again to establish a fresh connection.
Once the Bluetooth connection is established, check if the phone key is now functioning correctly.

2. Update Tesla Software

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues and glitches that affect the performance of the Tesla phone key. Make sure your Tesla’s software is up to date by following these steps:

On your Tesla’s touchscreen, go to the settings menu and select Software.
Check for any available software updates and install them if necessary.
Once the software update is complete, restart your Tesla and check if the phone key is working properly.

3. Reset Phone Key Setup

If the phone key setup was not completed correctly during the initial pairing process, it may cause the phone key to not work. Follow these steps to reset the phone key setup:

On your Tesla’s touchscreen, go to the settings menu and select Locks.
Find the option to reset or remove the phone key and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Once the phone key is removed, go through the setup process again to pair your phone with your Tesla as a key.
Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and ensure that the phone key setup is completed successfully.

4. Remove Interference

If you suspect that interference from other devices is affecting the Bluetooth connection, try removing or moving those devices away from your Tesla.

Other smartphones, laptops, or electronic devices emitting Bluetooth signals can interfere with the phone key’s performance.

Create some distance between these devices and your Tesla to improve the Bluetooth connection and check if the phone key starts working properly.

5. Check Airplane Mode and Battery on the Phone

Ensure that your phone is not in airplane mode, as this can disable the Bluetooth connection. Check the settings on your phone and make sure that airplane mode is turned off.

Additionally, make sure that your phone has sufficient battery power to support Bluetooth connectivity. If your phone is low on battery, charging it or using a wireless charger may help establish a stable Bluetooth connection.

6. Make sure You Have Logged in Tesla App

Make sure that you are logged in to the Tesla app on your phone and that you have a stable internet connection.

The Tesla app plays a crucial role in enabling the phone key feature, and being logged in is necessary for it to function correctly.

If you are already logged in, try logging out and logging back in to refresh the connection. If necessary, reinstall the Tesla app to ensure you have the latest version.

7. Check your Tesla Software

Ensure that your Tesla’s software is up to date by checking for software updates.

The Tesla software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve issues with the phone key. Follow these steps to check for software updates:

On your Tesla’s touchscreen, go to the settings menu and select Software.
Check for any available updates and install them if necessary.
Once the software update is complete, restart your Tesla and check if the phone key is working properly.

4. Conclusion

The Tesla phone key is a convenient feature that allows Tesla owners to use their smartphones as keys to access and control their vehicles.

However, if you encounter any issues with the phone key not working, it can be frustrating. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide has provided you with effective solutions to resolve the problem.

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can overcome common issues such as Bluetooth connectivity problems, software glitches, setup errors, interference, and faulty readers.

Remember to check the Bluetooth connection, update your Tesla’s software, reset the phone key setup, remove interference, ensure the phone is not in airplane mode, log in to the Tesla app, and check for software updates.

If none of these solutions resolve the problem, it is advisable to contact Tesla support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps or arrange for a repair if necessary.

Rest assured that with these troubleshooting solutions, you can regain the convenience and functionality of the Tesla phone key feature.