2024 Tesla Model Y Key Fob & Key Card Guide (US) — Replacement, Pairing, Costs

The 2024 Tesla Model Y (US) primarily uses a Phone Key via the Tesla app, with RFID key cards as the standard backup. A separate Bluetooth key fob is typically optional and is used for convenience features like hands-free entry and quick access to the frunk/trunk. Because Tesla access is account- and app-integrated, replacement and pairing steps often involve the vehicle touchscreen and the Tesla app, plus an authenticated key card. Consumers generally find that having at least two working access methods (phone + card, or fob + card) prevents lockouts when batteries, phones, or settings fail.

3 Key Types
$25-$250 Dealer Range
$10-$200 Aftermarket Range

Compatible Key Fob Types

The following key types are typically compatible with the 2024 Tesla Model Y. Compatibility varies by trim and options.

Phone Key (Tesla app / Bluetooth)

A smartphone-based key that uses Bluetooth (and app/account authorization) to unlock, enable driving, and support passive entry when configured.

Features

  • Passive entry/exit when enabled (walk-up unlock, walk-away lock)
  • Remote controls in the Tesla app (lock/unlock, climate, trunk/frunk depending on settings)
  • Can authorize additional drivers via app/account permissions

Buttons

Battery

CR2032

Varies (depends on phone lifecycle) typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $0-$0 Programming included
Aftermarket $0-$0 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Pairing a Phone Key is typically done in the Tesla app and on the vehicle touchscreen. You generally need an already-authorized method (often a key card) and access to the vehicle/account to add or remove phone keys. If account access is lost, consumers typically must follow Tesla’s ownership verification process before access can be restored.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Bluetooth permission/background app restrictions prevent passive entry
  • Phone OS updates or battery-saver modes cause delayed unlock/drive authorization
  • Multiple paired devices cause inconsistent priority/connection behavior

RFID Key Card (NFC tap-to-unlock/drive)

A wallet-style RFID/NFC card used by tapping on the B-pillar to unlock and placing on the center console reader to enable driving. Often provided with the vehicle as a backup to Phone Key.

Features

  • Works without a phone battery or cellular service
  • Reliable backup for lockouts and valet situations
  • Used to authorize/pair additional keys in many cases

Buttons

Battery

CR2032

5-10+ years (no battery; physical wear dependent) typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $25-$60 Programming included
Aftermarket $10-$40 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Adding a key card is typically done from the vehicle’s Locks/Keys menu and generally requires an already-authorized key/card to confirm. Card enrollment usually happens by tapping the new card on the reader when prompted.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • Card not detected due to incorrect tap location or reader timing
  • Card damage from bending/heat or wallet wear
  • Confusion between unlock tap location (B-pillar) and drive authorization reader location (center console)

Tesla Bluetooth Key Fob (optional)

A dedicated Bluetooth key fob sold as an accessory for convenient vehicle access and quick actions without using a phone.

Features

  • Passive entry/exit capability when configured
  • Quick access actions (commonly trunk/frunk and lock/unlock via presses)
  • Useful for drivers who prefer a traditional fob or need a non-phone daily key

Buttons

lockunlocktrunk/frunk (varies by configuration/press pattern)

Battery

CR2032

3-5 years (fob electronics), 1-2 years per battery (typical use dependent) typical lifespan

Dealer OEM $150-$250 Programming included
Aftermarket $80-$200 Programming separate

Programming

🏢 Dealer Required

Pairing is typically performed through the vehicle’s Locks/Keys menu and generally requires an already-authorized key card/phone to confirm. If the vehicle cannot enter pairing mode or keys cannot be managed due to account/authorization issues, consumers generally must resolve access through Tesla’s app support and ownership verification pathways.

⚠️ Common Issues

  • CR2032 battery depletion causing reduced range or intermittent detection
  • Bluetooth interference or inconsistent passive entry behavior
  • Used/secondhand fobs that cannot be added because they are still associated with another vehicle/account

Cost Comparison: Your Options

🏢

Dealership

$25-$250
  • ✓ OEM quality guaranteed
  • ✓ Programming included
  • ✓ Warranty coverage
  • ✗ Higher cost
  • ✗ May require appointment

Best for: Warranty coverage, guaranteed compatibility

🔧

Locksmith

$0-$0
  • ✓ Often same-day service
  • ✓ Mobile options available
  • ✓ Programming included
  • ✓ Often OEM parts
  • △ Verify credentials

Best for: Speed, convenience, moderate savings

📦

Aftermarket Online

$10-$200
  • ✓ Lowest cost option
  • ✓ Wide selection
  • ✗ Programming not included
  • ✗ Compatibility varies
  • △ Check return policy

Best for: DIY-capable owners, budget-conscious

For the 2024 Model Y, costs are driven more by the hardware (optional fob vs key card) than by traditional immobilizer programming. Many key additions are owner-performed in the vehicle menu, but account/ownership issues can add time and friction. Independent automotive locksmith support is typically limited compared with conventional transponder-key vehicles, so consumers often rely on Tesla channels for account access and certain troubleshooting.

🛒 Buyer's Checklist

Before purchasing a replacement key fob for your 2024 Tesla Model Y, verify these points:

1 Confirm the exact key type you want (Phone Key vs key card vs Bluetooth fob) and how you plan to use it (daily vs backup).
2 Avoid listings that don’t clearly state whether the key/fob/card can be added to a new vehicle and returned if it can’t be enrolled.
3 For a fob, verify battery type (commonly CR2032) and check that the fob housing/buttons are not cracked or water-damaged.
4 Plan for enrollment: you typically need at least one already-authorized key card/phone to add another key; keep a backup method active before deleting any keys.
5 Buy from sources that provide clear proof of authenticity and a receipt, which can help if Tesla ownership verification or warranty questions arise.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗

Relying on only one access method (phone only) and getting locked out due to Bluetooth/permissions, dead phone, or app logout.

✗

Buying a used key fob expecting universal compatibility; secondhand fobs may be difficult or impossible to add if still associated or if the seller’s details are unclear.

✗

Deleting keys in the vehicle menu before confirming the new phone/fob/card is successfully enrolled and tested for unlock and drive authorization.

Related Model Years

Key fob compatibility often spans multiple model years. These years typically share similar key systems:

2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2024 Tesla Model Y come with a traditional key fob?

Typically, no. The Model Y generally uses Phone Key as the primary method and includes RFID key cards as backups. A Bluetooth key fob is commonly an optional accessory rather than standard equipment.

Can I add a new key card or key fob myself?

In many cases, yes. Adding keys is typically done from the vehicle touchscreen (Locks/Keys) and usually requires an already-authorized key (often a key card) to confirm enrollment. Exact steps can vary by software version.

What should I do if my Phone Key stops working reliably?

Consumers generally find it helps to confirm Bluetooth is on, allow the Tesla app to run in the background, disable aggressive battery optimization for the app, and keep a key card with you as a backup. If access is lost due to account/login issues, Tesla’s ownership verification process may be required to restore access.

What battery does the Tesla key fob use and how often is it replaced?

The Tesla Bluetooth key fob commonly uses a CR2032 coin-cell battery. Replacement frequency varies, but many consumers report needing a new battery roughly every 1–2 years depending on use and passive-entry behavior.

Need Help With a Specific Situation?

🚨 Lost All Keys What to do when you've lost your only key ➕ Get a Spare Add a backup key before emergencies 🔋 Dead Battery Replace your key fob battery ⚖️ Compare Options Full comparison of all options

Related Tesla Models

2024 Tesla Model 3 (US) 2024 Tesla Model X (US)

Need a Detailed Compatibility Report?

Get a comprehensive PDF report with exact part numbers, FCC IDs, and verified compatibility for your 2024 Tesla Model Y.

Get Compatibility Report - $9

Instant PDF download • Money-back guarantee

Last updated: 2026-01-04