How Tesla car keys and key fobs are programmed, by model year, what you can sometimes do yourself, and when a mobile automotive locksmith is the faster, safer choice. Dealerkeys programs Tesla keys on site across East Tennessee.
Tesla uses one key system across the years we list. Find your vehicle below.
Method: Tesla Toolbox / NFC Card / OBD2 Harness
Model S/X key fobs require Tesla Toolbox or OBD2 harness connection under the dash. Model 3/Y key cards and key fobs are programmed directly via the vehicle touchscreen (Controls > Locks > Add Key) using an existing authenticated card/phone.
Note: Model 3/Y allows self-programming of key cards and fobs directly through the center screen without specialized tools, provided an admin key is present.
This guide is general information. Procedures vary by model, trim and equipment, and a wrong attempt can leave a vehicle unable to accept new keys. Call or text with the year, make and model, and we will tell you what yours needs.
The Tesla systems above need a diagnostic programming tool and, in many cases, a security code. That is not something you can do with a key and a few ignition cycles, which is why a locksmith with the right equipment is the practical route.
Dealerkeys is a mobile automotive locksmith with more than 26 years of experience and over 150,000 vehicles serviced across East Tennessee. For an all-keys-lost Tesla, we pick the lock if needed, make a new key, and program it at your vehicle. We quote the price first, and we make a key only after you show ID and proof of ownership. See our dead key fob guide if the car just will not start with your fob, or mail-in module repair for BCM, ECU and TIPM trouble.
The year, make and model of the vehicle, the VIN if you can read it through the windshield, and where the vehicle is parked. Tell us how many keys you have left, if any, and what kind of key you want. Plan to be with the vehicle, with your ID and registration, title or other proof of ownership.
The Tesla systems above need a diagnostic programming tool and, in many cases, a security code. That is not something you can do with a key and a few ignition cycles, which is why a locksmith with the right equipment is the practical route.
We come to you, open the vehicle if it is locked, make a new key for your Tesla and program it on site, so there is no tow to a dealer. You need to be with the vehicle, with ID and proof of ownership.
It depends on the model, the year and the type of key. Call or text with the year, make and model, and we quote the price before any work begins.
We dispatch to your vehicle in these areas and the towns around them:
