Can Tesla Key Cards Be Left in the Car All the Time?
2 Answers
No, the Model-3 comes with two key cards the size of a bank card, which can be placed in a wallet to unlock the vehicle. To unlock the car, simply place this small, thin card against the B-pillar of the vehicle (only effective on the driver's side). Once inside, place the card behind the center console cup holder to start the vehicle. Below is relevant information: Key Categories: Tesla offers three types of keys: the car key, the card key, and an activated phone. The Tesla card key contains an embedded chip, enabling it to assist the owner in locking and unlocking the car. The car key card is a black smart card, entirely black in appearance, with "TESLA" written on the front. The back features a car illustration with an unlock-style design, both the illustration and text outlined in white lines, embodying Tesla's premium aesthetic with a black-and-white theme. Card Key: The Model-3's key is a card key that operates via NFC, allowing it to be conveniently carried in a wallet or pocket (though it can be easily lost). To start the car after entering, the card must be placed on the center console and swiped to activate the vehicle.
I never dare to leave my Tesla key card in the car. The vehicle detects the key inside and stubbornly refuses to lock. Once I forgot it on the center console, went grocery shopping for half an hour, and returned to find all the windows wide open—almost gave me a heart attack. Now I've developed a habit: after unlocking and starting the car, I immediately pocket the key card. Even if I'm too lazy to take it, I'd rather use the mobile app. The Bluetooth phone unlock is actually more convenient, and the auto-lock when walking away is even more hassle-free. It's best to hide a spare key in an external magnetic box—if the card gets lost, you'll still have an emergency backup. This thing wasn't designed to be a permanent resident in your car. Safety first, right?
