Lost Key Fob high urgency

Lost Key Fob for a 2024 Tesla Model 3 (US): What to Do Now

Losing a key fob for a 2024 Tesla Model 3 can be stressful, but you may still be able to drive using Phone Key or a key card. The priority is securing access to your Tesla account and vehicle, then arranging a replacement and removing the lost fob’s access.

Understanding Your Situation

A lost Tesla key fob may still unlock and start the car if it’s nearby, so treat it like a lost “key” and limit access quickly. For Model 3, access can also come from Phone Key and key cards, so you’ll want to confirm what still works and disable what’s missing.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm you still have access: try Phone Key in the Tesla app and locate any spare key card(s).
  2. Secure your Tesla account: change your Tesla account password, ensure two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled, and review/remove unknown devices or app access if available.
  3. Remove the lost fob’s access as soon as possible: from the car’s touchscreen (Controls > Locks) or Tesla app (if supported), delete the missing key/fob and keep the car in a secure location until it’s removed.

Your Options

Use Phone Key (temporary or primary solution)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

If your phone is already paired as a Phone Key, you can unlock and drive without the fob. If not paired, you’ll typically need an existing authorized key (key card/another phone key) to add a new phone. Keep your phone charged and Bluetooth enabled.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fastest way to regain use if already set up
  • No hardware purchase required
âś— Cons:
  • If your phone is lost/dead or Bluetooth issues occur, you can get locked out
  • Adding a new phone key usually requires an existing authorized key

Use a Tesla Key Card (backup access)

Cost: $0 (if you already have one) / $25-$50 (if purchasing additional cards) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Model 3 key cards can unlock/lock by tapping the B-pillar and enable driving by placing the card on the interior reader. If you still have a spare card, it’s a reliable backup while you replace the fob.

âś“ Pros:
  • Very reliable and not battery-dependent like a phone
  • Good emergency backup even after you replace the fob
âś— Cons:
  • Must be physically tapped to unlock and placed to drive (less convenient)
  • If you lost all keys, you may need Tesla support to regain access

Replace the Tesla Key Fob through Tesla (recommended)

Cost: $175-$250 (fob) + possible tax/shipping Time: 1-7 days

Order a replacement Tesla key fob (and/or key cards) through Tesla. After you receive it, you’ll pair it to the vehicle and delete the lost fob from the Locks/Keys menu so it can no longer access the car.

âś“ Pros:
  • Correct part and compatibility for your Model 3
  • You can revoke the lost fob and restore full convenience
âś— Cons:
  • Not always same-day depending on availability/shipping
  • You may need an existing working key to complete pairing

Tesla Service / Roadside Assistance help (if you’re locked out or have no working keys)

Cost: $0-$200+ (varies by warranty, service type, and situation) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If you have no working Phone Key and no key card, Tesla can help verify ownership and assist with regaining access. Depending on the situation, they may guide you through account recovery, vehicle access, and replacement key provisioning.

âś“ Pros:
  • Best path when you have zero access
  • Ownership verification helps prevent unauthorized access
âś— Cons:
  • May take time depending on location and verification requirements
  • Costs and outcomes vary by scenario

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t delay removing the lost fob/key from the vehicle’s authorized keys list—if someone finds it, they may be able to access the car.

✕ Don’t share Tesla account login codes or 2FA prompts with anyone (including callers/texts claiming to be support). Use only official Tesla channels.

✕ Don’t rely solely on a nearly-dead phone or a single access method—set up at least two methods (Phone Key + key card) to avoid future lockouts.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Calling dealer first without getting quotes
  • Not checking insurance coverage
  • Rushing to tow to dealership
  • Not considering mobile locksmiths

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone drive my 2024 Tesla Model 3 if they find my key fob?

Potentially, yes—if the fob is still authorized and close enough to the vehicle, it may unlock and allow driving. Remove the missing fob from Controls > Locks (or the Tesla app if available) as soon as you can, and secure your Tesla account with a password change and 2FA.

If I lost my key fob, can I still drive with just the Tesla app?

Yes, if Phone Key was already set up on your phone and your phone has battery/Bluetooth. If Phone Key was not set up, you typically need an existing authorized key (like a key card) to add a new phone key.

Do I need to replace the locks or rekey anything on a Tesla Model 3?

Usually no. Tesla access is managed electronically. The key step is deleting the lost fob/key from the authorized keys list and securing your Tesla account.

How do I disable a lost key fob on a Model 3?

From the car’s touchscreen, go to Controls > Locks (or Keys/Locks depending on software version), find the lost fob in the key list, and remove it. If you can’t access the car, contact Tesla through the app to discuss account/vehicle access recovery.

Will a locksmith be able to make a new key fob for a 2024 Tesla Model 3?

In most cases, Tesla keys are best handled through Tesla due to pairing and authorization requirements. A locksmith may help with non-key issues (like opening a locked vehicle in some situations), but replacement and authorization is typically Tesla-managed.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the fob was lost in a public place or you suspect theft, treat it as urgent: remove the fob from authorized keys immediately, secure your Tesla account (password + 2FA), and park the car in a locked/monitored location until access is confirmed.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Tesla Model 3.

View Model 3 Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04