To lock a Tesla using the key card, you need to tap or swipe the key card on the driver's side door pillar (below the camera) once to unlock, and do the same to lock the car. Tesla key cards work with RFID signals and do not support automatic locking, so locking requires this physical tap or swipe action each time. Additionally, inside the car, you can manually lock the doors via a lock icon on the touchscreen as you exit if needed. Keep a copy of the key card handy, as the card is necessary for locking/unlocking if the phone key is unavailable.
How to lock Tesla with key card:
- Approach the driver's side door and tap or swipe the key card below the camera on the door pillar.
- The doors will lock or unlock with a chime and mirror folding/unfolding as confirmation.
- Tesla key cards do not lock the car automatically when you walk away, so always tap again to lock.
- Inside the vehicle, you can also press the lock icon on the touchscreen to manually lock before exiting.
- When driving without a phone key, place the card on the center console or wireless charging pad to start driving.
This method applies to Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and other models using key cards for entry and locking.
