Tesla Model Y is an advanced electric car that has been gaining popularity for its innovative features and impressive performance. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and cutting-edge technology, the Model Y offers a futuristic driving experience.
One of the many convenient features of Tesla Model Y is the ability to lock and unlock the car outside using just your phone. This feature comes in handy when you want to quickly secure your car without having to fumble for the keys. In this guide on how to lock Tesla Model Y from outside, we will walk you through the steps of locking Tesla Model Y from outside.
Necessary Items
Before we dive into the steps, here are the items you will need to lock your Model Y from the outside:
- A smartphone with the Tesla app installed and configured
- An active internet connection on your phone and car
- Your Tesla account login credentials
8 Things to Know Before You Start
1) The Range of Locking/Unlocking
The Tesla Model Y can be locked and unlocked from a distance of up to 150 feet (45 meters) with the phone as the key. This means that you need to be within this range for the locking/unlocking feature to work.
2) Internet Connectivity is Key
For the phone-as-a-key feature to work, both your phone and the car need to have an active internet connection. If either one of them is not connected to the internet, you will not be able to lock/unlock your car.
3) No Need for Bluetooth or NFC
Unlike traditional key fobs that use Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC), Tesla Model Y uses a combination of Wi-Fi and cellular networks for the phone-as-a-key feature. This means that you do not need to have Bluetooth or NFC enabled on your phone.
4) Security Concerns
The phone-as-a-key feature uses a secure encrypted connection between your phone and car, ensuring the safety of your vehicle. While there is still a small risk of hacking, Tesla has implemented additional security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
5) Multiple Users
You can add multiple users to the Tesla app and give them access to lock/unlock your car. This feature comes in handy when you want someone else to be able to secure the vehicle without sharing your account login credentials.
6) Emergency Backup
In case your phone runs out of battery or you lose it, Tesla provides an emergency backup keycard that can be used to unlock the car. It is recommended to keep this card in a safe place as it does not have a rechargeable battery.
7) Take Precautions in Public Places
As with any valuable possession, it is important to take precautions while locking/unlocking your Tesla Model Y in public places. Be aware of your surroundings, and do not leave the car unattended with the phone inside.
8) Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues with the phone-as-a-key feature, make sure both your phone and car have an active internet connection. You can also restart your phone or reset the car’s connectivity settings.
With the phone-as-a-key feature, locking your Tesla Model Y from outside is quick and effortless. Just make sure you have all the necessary items and precautions in mind, and you will be able to secure your car with ease. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more convenient features like this in our vehicles.
12 Steps on How to Lock Tesla Model Y From Outside
Step 1: Download the Tesla App
The first step is to download the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone. It is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the respective app stores. If you already have the app, make sure it is updated to the latest version.
Step 2: Log in to Your Tesla Account
Once you have downloaded the app, log in to your Tesla account using your credentials. If you do not have an account, you can create one by following the prompts on the app. So, make sure you have your login information ready before proceeding.
Step 3: Connect Your Phone to the Car
Next, you need to connect your phone to the Tesla Model Y via Bluetooth. To do this, go to ‘Phone’ on your car’s touchscreen, select ‘Add New Device’ and follow the prompts. Make sure that your phone’s Bluetooth is turned on and in visible mode.
Step 4: Enable the Phone-as-a-Key Feature
Once your phone is connected to the car, go to ‘Phone’ on the touchscreen again and select ‘Phone Key.’ Then, enable the ‘Allow Mobile Access’ option. This will allow your phone to be used as a key for your Tesla Model Y.
Step 5: Enable Remote Access
On the app, go to ‘Controls’ and enable the ‘Remote Access’ option. This will allow you to lock/unlock your car from outside as long as both your phone and car have an active internet connection.
Step 6: Lock Your Car
To lock your Model Y, simply tap on the lock icon on the app’s home screen. You will receive a notification confirming that your car has been locked. Then, you can close the app and walk away with peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is secure.
Step 7: Verify Lock Status
To verify that your car is indeed locked, you can check the status on the app or simply try to open one of the doors. If it is locked, you will not be able to open any of them from outside. Further, you can also check the car’s exterior lights – they should flash once to indicate it is locked.
Step 8: Unlock Your Car
To unlock your Model Y, open the app and tap on the unlock icon. You will receive a notification confirming that your car has been unlocked. Then, you can simply open one of the doors to enter. As a safety measure, the doors will automatically lock again after you enter.
Step 9: Choose Drive Profile
Once inside the car, you can choose your drive profile by simply tapping on your name on the touchscreen. This will adjust the seat and steering wheel positions according to your preferences. Go to ‘Controls’ and select ‘Driver Profiles’ to set up your personalized settings.
Step 10: Drive Away
Now, you are ready to drive away. Simply press on the brake pedal, select a gear, and you’re good to go. The phone-as-a-key feature also allows for keyless driving, so you do not need to turn any physical keys or fobs – just make sure you have your phone with you.
Step 11: Lock Your Car from the Inside
If you forget to lock your car before entering, do not worry. You can still lock it from inside by going to ‘Controls’ on the touchscreen and selecting ‘Lock.’ This will automatically engage all locks and activate the alarm system.
Step 12: Use Emergency Backup
In case your phone is not available for any reason, you can use the emergency backup keycard to unlock your car. Simply tap on the card against the B-pillar at the front passenger door and hold it there until the car unlocks. Remember, this card does not have a battery and cannot be used for driving purposes.
Congratulations, you now know how to lock and unlock your Tesla Model Y from outside using your phone. With this convenient feature, you can secure your car with ease and peace of mind. Just make sure to follow all necessary precautions and troubleshooting steps on how to lock Tesla Model Y from outside in case of any issues.
8 Things to Avoid While Locking Your Tesla Model Y Using Phone as a Key
1) Leaving Your Phone Unattended While the Car is Unlocked
Always make sure to have your phone with you or in a secure location while the car is unlocked. Having both your phone and car together ensures that only authorized access can be granted. So avoid leaving your phone unattended with the car unlocked, especially in public places.
2) Leaving Your Phone Uncharged
Since the phone-as-a-key feature relies on your phone’s battery, make sure to keep it charged. If your phone battery dies while you are away from your car, you will not be able to lock/unlock it using the app. So, make it a habit to keep your phone charged before leaving home.
3) Forgetting Your Login Information
If you forget your Tesla account login information, you will not be able to access the app and use the phone-as-a-key feature. So make sure to remember your credentials or store them in a safe place for easy retrieval.
4) Not Keeping Track of Your Phone’s Bluetooth and Internet Connection
Both your phone and car need to have an active Bluetooth connection for the phone-as-a-key feature to work. Additionally, both also require internet access for remote locking/unlocking. So, make sure to keep track of these connections and troubleshoot accordingly if you encounter any issues.
5) Not Having a Backup Plan in Case of Phone Loss or Damage
In the event of losing your phone or damaging it, make sure to have a backup plan in place. This can include having spare keycards or keeping your login information accessible for another device. It is always better to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
6) Not Keeping Your App Updated
To ensure the smooth functioning of the phone-as-a-key feature, make sure to keep your Tesla app updated at all times. This will not only provide access to the latest features but also fix any bugs or issues that may arise with older versions.
7) Not Checking for Software Updates on Your Car
Just like the app, it is important to regularly check for software updates on your car. These updates can improve the performance of the phone-as-a-key feature and fix any bugs or issues that may affect its functionality.
8) Not Following Proper Troubleshooting Steps
In case you are unable to lock/unlock your car using the phone-as-a-key feature, make sure to follow proper troubleshooting steps. This can include checking your phone’s settings, resetting the app, or restarting your car. It is important to address any issues promptly to avoid any potential security risks.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a seamless experience while using your phone as a key for your Tesla Model Y. Remember to always prioritize safety and stay updated on the latest features and troubleshooting steps for the phone-as-a-key feature.
With proper knowledge and precautions, you can fully utilize this convenient and modern way of locking and unlocking your car. Overall, the phone-as-a-key feature adds another level of convenience to owning a Tesla Model Y, making it a truly futuristic driving experience. So go ahead and enjoy your locked and secure Model Y!
8 Additional Tips for Using Phone as a Key for Your Tesla Model Y
1) Enable Passive Entry Mode
Passive entry mode allows you to unlock your car without having to take out your phone or keycard. It uses sensors on the door handles to detect when you are near and automatically unlocks the car. This feature can be enabled in the ‘Locks’ section of your car’s settings.
2) Customize Driver Profiles
As mentioned earlier, you can set up personalized driver profiles on your Tesla Model Y. This includes adjusting seat and steering wheel positions, as well as other vehicle settings like climate control and mirrors. You can also save multiple profiles for different drivers or preferences.
3) Use Touch ID/Face ID for Added Security
To add an extra layer of security, you can use Touch ID or Face ID to access your Tesla app. This ensures that only authorized users can access the phone-as-a-key feature on your phone. So make sure to set up these features in your phone’s settings.
4) Share Access with Others
You can share access to your Tesla Model Y with others by adding them as a secondary user. This allows them to use their own smartphone as a key and have personalized driver profiles. You can also revoke their access at any time if needed.
5) Use Valet Mode
Valet mode restricts access to certain features and settings of your car, allowing you to safely hand over your vehicle for parking or servicing. This can be activated from the ‘Security’ section of your car’s settings.
6) Keep Your Phone Nearby While Driving
Although the phone-as-a-key feature allows you to leave your phone in your pocket or bag while driving, it is recommended to keep it nearby in case of emergency situations. This will ensure that you have immediate access to your car and its features.
7) Use Pin to Drive Feature
The pin-to-drive feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN code before the car can be driven. This can be helpful in situations where you need to lend your car to someone or park in a public place.
8) Report Any Issues to Tesla Support
If you encounter any persistent issues with the phone-as-a-key feature, make sure to report them to Tesla support. They can provide assistance and troubleshoot any technical problems that may be affecting its functionality.
By following these additional tips on how to lock Tesla Model Y from outside, you can further enhance your experience of using your phone as a key for your Tesla Model Y. So go ahead and take full advantage of this modern and convenient feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Use the Physical Keycard if My Phone is Lost or Damaged?
Yes, you can use the physical keycard as a backup option to unlock and drive your car. So make sure to keep it in a safe place and have it accessible in case of any issues with your phone.
Can I Use Multiple Phones as a Key for My Tesla Model Y?
Yes, you can use multiple phones as keys for your car. However, each phone will need to have the Tesla app installed and be linked to the same account.
Is the Phone-as-a-Key Feature Secure?
Yes, the phone-as-a-key feature uses encryption and authentication to ensure security. It is also recommended to enable additional security measures such as Touch ID or Face ID for added protection.
Can I Still Use My Phone as a Key if It is Out of Battery?
No, your phone will need to have enough battery power in order to use it as a key for your car. It is recommended to keep your phone charged while using it as a key.
Can I Use the Phone-as-a-Key Feature on Older Tesla Models?
No, currently, the phone-as-a-key feature is only available on newer Tesla models with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. However, older models can still use the physical key or keycard to unlock and drive the car. So, make sure to check your car’s compatibility before relying on this feature.
Conclusion
The phone-as-a-key feature for Tesla Model Y adds a modern and convenient way of locking, unlocking, and driving your car. By avoiding common mistakes and following proper tips and precautions on how to lock Tesla Model Y from outside, you can fully utilize this feature for a seamless driving experience.
Make sure to stay updated on the latest troubleshooting steps and report any issues for prompt resolution. With proper knowledge and precautions, you can enjoy the futuristic experience of using your phone as a key for your Tesla Model Y. So go ahead and embrace the future of car technology with this advanced feature!
