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2024 Tesla Model Y Key Fob Not Working: Quick Fixes & Next Steps (US)

If your 2024 Tesla Model Y key fob won’t lock/unlock or won’t let the car start, the issue is often a low fob battery, a pairing problem, or interference. Because the Model Y primarily uses Phone Key, you may still be able to drive using the Tesla app or key card while you troubleshoot.

Understanding Your Situation

The vehicle isn’t detecting the key fob via Bluetooth, so commands (lock/unlock, trunk, or driving authorization) may fail. Common causes include a depleted CR2032 battery, the fob being unpaired/disabled, or signal interference/placement issues.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Use the Tesla app (Phone Key) or the key card to unlock and drive if available; keep your Tesla account credentials handy.
  2. Replace the key fob battery (typically CR2032) with a new, name-brand cell and confirm correct orientation; then try again next to the driver’s door and inside the cabin.
  3. If it still fails, re-pair the key fob in Controls > Locks (you’ll need an active key card/working key to authorize pairing) and test from multiple distances/positions.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (CR2032)

Cost: $3-$10 Time: Same day

Open the fob, swap in a new CR2032 coin-cell battery, and retest lock/unlock and starting authorization near the car.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • Resolves the most common cause of intermittent or total failure
âś— Cons:
  • Doesn’t help if the fob is unpaired or faulty
  • Improper battery orientation or low-quality cells can cause repeat issues

Re-pair the key fob in the vehicle

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Using a working key card/phone key for authorization, add the fob again via Controls > Locks > Add Key, then test all functions.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fixes issues caused by pairing loss or profile changes
  • No parts required
âś— Cons:
  • Requires at least one working key (key card or phone key) to authorize pairing
  • Won’t fix hardware failure or severe interference

Use Phone Key or key card as your primary access temporarily

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Rely on Phone Key (Bluetooth) and keep a key card with you as a backup while troubleshooting or waiting for service.

âś“ Pros:
  • Gets you back on the road immediately in most cases
  • No waiting for parts
âś— Cons:
  • Phone Bluetooth/app issues can also cause access problems
  • Not a permanent fix if you specifically need the fob

Check for interference and improve detection conditions

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Test the fob close to the car, remove it from bags with electronics/metal objects, and try a different location (driver door area, center console). Also ensure the vehicle and app software are up to date.

âś“ Pros:
  • Can resolve intermittent detection issues without parts
  • Helps identify environment-related causes
âś— Cons:
  • May not resolve consistent failures
  • Can be time-consuming to isolate the cause

Tesla Service diagnosis and key fob replacement

Cost: $50-$250+ Time: 1-7 days

Schedule service in the Tesla app for key fob troubleshooting. If the fob is defective, Tesla can replace it and pair it to the vehicle.

âś“ Pros:
  • Professional diagnosis and correct pairing
  • Most reliable path if the fob hardware has failed
âś— Cons:
  • Cost and appointment wait time
  • You may need to rely on phone key/key card until service

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t get locked out: avoid disabling Phone Key or leaving your key card inside the vehicle while testing.

✕ Don’t use sharp tools or excessive force to open the fob—damage to the case or internal clips can cause ongoing issues.

✕ Don’t assume it’s the car immediately; test with a fresh battery and try re-pairing before replacing expensive parts.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my 2024 Model Y if the key fob isn’t working?

Usually yes. If Phone Key is set up, you can unlock and drive with the Tesla app and Bluetooth. If not, you can use the key card to unlock and authorize driving by placing it on the designated reader area (follow the on-screen prompts). Keep a key card with you as a backup.

Why does my Tesla key fob work only sometimes?

Intermittent operation is commonly caused by a weak CR2032 battery, interference (phones, other Bluetooth devices, metal objects), or the fob being too far from the vehicle. Replacing the battery and testing the fob outside of bags/pockets with electronics often improves reliability.

Do I need a working key to pair a new or existing key fob?

Yes in most cases. Tesla typically requires an already-authorized key (such as a key card or Phone Key) to approve adding/pairing another key in Controls > Locks.

Will a dead car 12V/low-voltage battery cause the key fob to stop working?

It can. If the vehicle’s low-voltage system is depleted or the car is unresponsive, the fob (and other entry methods) may not work normally. If the car won’t wake, use the app to check status and consider Tesla Roadside Assistance if you can’t access or power the vehicle safely.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re stranded, can’t access the vehicle, or the car won’t wake/respond, use the Tesla app and key card first. If you still can’t gain access or suspect a low-voltage power issue, contact Tesla Roadside Assistance rather than forcing entry or attempting unsafe jump procedures.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Tesla Model Y.

View Model Y Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04