2017 Tesla Model X Key Fob Programming & Battery Replacement Guide

Welcome to your complete key fob programming and replacement guide for the 2017 Tesla Model X. As an ASE-certified electrical technician and locksmith writing for Repairius.com, I regularly field questions about Tesla’s unique security systems. Unlike traditional vehicles, Tesla operates more like a rolling computer. If you have lost your Model X key fob or simply need a spare, the process looks quite different from pairing a traditional transponder key.

Here is everything you need to know about replacing, powering, and programming your 2017 Tesla Model X key fob.

Quick reference

Item	Detail
FCC ID	2AEIM-1048598
OEM Fob PN	1048598-00-A, 1048598-00-B
Aftermarket Options	None recommended (must use OEM Tesla fob)
Battery Type	CR2354
Programmable On-Board?	No (Requires Tesla Service or authorized diagnostic software)
Cuts Required?	No (No physical emergency key blade)

Step-by-step on-board programming

If you are hoping for a DIY "turn the key on and off five times" procedure, you are out of luck. The 2017 Tesla Model X does not support on-board, DIY key fob programming.

Unlike the newer Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, which utilize RFID key cards and allow users to add new keys directly from the center MCU screen, the legacy Model S and Model X (including your 2017 model) utilize a highly encrypted Low Frequency (LF) and Bluetooth system.

To program a new key fob to a 2017 Model X, the vehicle must be connected to Tesla’s proprietary diagnostic software (Tesla Toolbox). Because of this, the programming procedure is as follows:

1. Purchase the replacement fob: Order directly through a Tesla Service Center or via the Tesla app.
2. Schedule a Service Appointment: You can schedule a Mobile Service visit or take the vehicle into a Tesla Service Center.
3. Software Pairing: The technician will connect their laptop to your vehicle's diagnostic port, access Tesla Toolbox, and securely pair the new fob's cryptographic key to your vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM).
4. Verification: The technician will test the proximity unlocking, falcon-wing door operations, and drive authorization to ensure the pairing was successful.

Battery replacement

While you cannot program the fob yourself, you can replace the battery when you get the "Key Fob Battery Low" alert on your dashboard. The 2017 Model X uses a thicker CR2354 coin-cell battery (do not confuse this with the CR2032 used in the Model S).

1. Place the key fob button-side down on a soft surface.
2. Locate the small slot at the bottom (rear) of the key fob.
3. Use a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to carefully pry the bottom battery cover off.
4. Remove the old battery.
5. Insert the new CR2354 battery with the "+" side facing up toward you.
6. Align the battery cover and snap it firmly back into place.

Note: Replacing the battery will not erase your fob’s programming.

Where to buy a replacement fob

Tesla Service Center (Recommended): The only bulletproof way to get a functional Model X key fob is directly from Tesla.

• Pros: Guaranteed to work, correct exact part number, comes with a warranty, and Tesla Mobile Service will usually come to your driveway to program it.
• Cons: You are subject to Tesla's scheduling availability.
• Price: Typically around $175 to $200 for the fob itself, plus a potential labor/programming fee (though sometimes this is bundled).

Automotive Locksmiths: A small but growing number of highly specialized locksmiths possess the aftermarket software required to program legacy Tesla fobs.

• Pros: Can often provide same-day service if you are stranded in an emergency.
• Cons: Very few locksmiths have invested in this specialized software.
• Price: Usually comparable to or slightly higher than Tesla's pricing due to the cost of the aftermarket software subscriptions.

Amazon / eBay (Not Recommended): You will often see used Model X key fobs on eBay. Do not buy them. Once a fob is paired to a vehicle, it is extremely difficult (if not impossible) to wipe and re-pair to a new vehicle without advanced EEPROM work. Furthermore, Tesla Service Centers will generally refuse to program a used fob purchased from a third party.

If on-board programming isn't supported

Because DIY programming isn't an option, you should budget appropriately. Expect to spend between $200 and $300 in total to get a fully functional, programmed spare key fob in your hands.

The security system in the 2017 Model X is incredibly robust, featuring rolling-code encryption to prevent relay attacks and unauthorized cloning. While it can be frustrating to not have a DIY option, this closed-loop security system is exactly what keeps your vehicle safe from theft. Always ensure you have at least two working fobs, because losing your only fob will require a tow to a Tesla Service Center.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.