2021 Tesla Model S Key Fob Programming Guide

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

Good news for 2021 Tesla Model S owners! You can add a new key fob yourself using the vehicle's touchscreen. Tesla designed their vehicles for a seamless, software-driven experience, and key programming is no exception.

Before you begin:

• Ensure your new key fob has a fresh CR2032 battery installed.
• Have at least one working key fob or key card present in the vehicle.
• The vehicle must be in "Park."

Programming steps:

1. Enter the vehicle: Get into your Tesla Model S with your existing, working key fob or key card.
2. Access Controls: On the center touchscreen, touch the "Controls" icon along the bottom bar.
3. Navigate to Locks: From the "Controls" menu, tap on "Locks."
4. Add Key: Look for the "Keys" section and tap the "+" (Add Key) icon.
5. Scan Existing Key: The screen will prompt you to scan a working key fob or key card. Place the existing key fob or key card on the console behind the cup holders or on the wireless charging pad, depending on your vehicle's configuration. The screen will confirm when the key has been successfully scanned.
6. Scan New Key Fob: Now, place your new, unprogrammed key fob in the same location where you scanned the existing key (console behind cup holders or wireless charging pad). The touchscreen will guide you and confirm once the new key fob has been successfully added.
7. Test the Fob: Once programmed, try locking and unlocking the vehicle with the new key fob to ensure it's working correctly. You should also be able to open the front and rear trunks.

If you encounter any issues, try repeating the process. Ensure the key fobs are placed precisely as indicated on the screen.

Battery replacement

The 2021 Tesla Model S key fob uses a single CR2032 coin cell battery.

1. Locate the seam: On the back of the key fob, you'll see a small seam running along the edge.
2. Open the fob: Using a small, flat-blade screwdriver or a coin, carefully pry open the two halves of the key fob at the seam. Start from the bottom where the emergency key would typically be.
3. Remove the old battery: Gently pry out the old CR2032 battery.
4. Insert new battery: Place the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
5. Close the fob: Align the two halves of the key fob and press them together until they click securely into place.

Where to buy a replacement fob

For a 2021 Tesla Model S, your options are more limited than with traditional vehicles, as Tesla maintains tight control over its parts and software ecosystem.

• Tesla Service Center: This is the most reliable place to purchase an OEM replacement key fob. They will ensure you receive a genuine part compatible with your vehicle. The cost for a new fob from Tesla can range from $150 to $250, not including any potential service fees if you were unable to program it yourself (though on-board programming makes this unlikely).
• Aftermarket/Amazon: It is highly discouraged to purchase aftermarket key fobs for Tesla vehicles from sites like Amazon or eBay. These fobs are often not genuine, may not work correctly, and could potentially cause software conflicts. Tesla's systems are designed to work exclusively with their proprietary hardware.
• Locksmith: While a professional automotive locksmith can often program keys for many different car brands, Tesla's unique architecture makes it very difficult for independent locksmiths to access the necessary programming tools or software. A locksmith is unlikely to have the ability to sell or program a new key for your Tesla Model S.

If on-board programming isn't supported

In the rare event that the on-board programming process via the touchscreen doesn't work or you don't have a working key present to initiate the process, you would need to contact Tesla Service. They have proprietary diagnostic equipment and software to add new keys to your vehicle directly.

• Cost Expectations: Tesla Service would charge for the key fob itself (as noted above). If they need to perform the programming, there might be a labor charge, typically around $50-$150, depending on their hourly rate. However, on-board programming is generally very reliable.
• Immobilizer Transponder: Tesla vehicles utilize advanced secure rolling code technology integrated into the key fob to communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer system. There isn't a separate "transponder chip" in the traditional sense; the entire fob acts as the secure authenticator. This system is designed to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation and is why third-party keys are ineffective and unsupported.

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