Practical guide
Phone as a key
Set up access to the car and check it before your first trip.
Guide updated 2 Oct 2026 · revision 1
Prepare your phone
The Model 3 manuals of both generations use Bluetooth. Before setting up, log in to the Tesla Account, turn on Bluetooth for your phone and app, check the location resolution and mobile access in the car. Set up next to the car by following the app’s prompts.
Test everyday use
After binding, the Internet is not required for the key itself, but login to the account must be saved. Try to open the car, sit down and then close it in the usual way. Automatic locking when leaving works when the appropriate setting is turned on; do not consider the silence of the car as confirmation of locking.
Prepare a backup
Keep a working card separate from your phone: Battery discharge or switched off Bluetooth can interfere with access. Calls and music are connected separately from key settings. If you crash, check the phone’s charge, Bluetooth, and app performance in the background first; don’t delete the key with the first action.
Practical example
Checking a new phone before traveling
Check access to the car while you have a working key card on hand.
- Make sure the Tesla app opens the car, Bluetooth is on, and the phone remains logged in.
- Next to the car, check to open the door and start the trip; then get out and make sure the door does lock.
- Take the key card separately from the phone: you need it if the phone runs out or stops working as a key.
Keep in mind: Do not leave an active phone key in the car: the detected key may allow you to open the doors from the outside.
Sources and currency
This concise guide was prepared by Volt. A manual version does not mean that software is installed on your car.
For your vehicle and software, the in-car manual and release notes are the most precise references.