Tesla May Phase Out Key Cards in Favor of Phone Key Access
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Introduction
Tesla, the trailblazing electric vehicle manufacturer, is reportedly considering phasing out one of its long-standing car accessories — the key card. First introduced in 2017, these slim RFID cards have been a standard inclusion with new vehicles, but their relevance appears to be waning. As more owners rely on the convenience of Tesla’s Phone Key feature, recent revisions to the company’s Owner’s Manuals suggest the key card could soon be discontinued, sparking debate about the future of vehicle access technology in Tesla’s lineup.
The Purpose of Tesla Key Cards
Every new Tesla typically comes with two key cards to assist with initial setup and provide a simple backup method for entry and start-up. Yet as smartphone-based access becomes the norm, physical key card usage has steadily declined. Reports now indicate Tesla may stop including them altogether, signaling a possible effort to streamline its vehicle offerings and modernize the ownership experience.
Revisions in the Owner’s Manuals
According to Not a Tesla App, Tesla has quietly removed the section of its Owner’s Manuals that mentions key cards being included with new vehicles. The manuals previously read,
“Tesla provides you with two Model 3/Y key cards, designed to fit in your wallet.”
This deletion coincides with the introduction of Tesla’s new, lower-priced Standard Models, hinting that the move could be part of broader cost-optimization efforts across the company.
Why the Change?
The possible removal of key cards aligns with a broader shift in how consumers interact with their vehicles. Tesla’s Phone Key feature, which lets drivers unlock and start their cars via smartphone, has quickly become the preferred method thanks to its seamless convenience and near-universal compatibility. Moving exclusively to digital access would further simplify Tesla’s ecosystem and reinforce its reputation for innovation-driven minimalism.
When Key Cards Still Matter
Although many drivers rarely use their key cards anymore, they remain useful in specific situations. For example, key cards are ideal for valet parking or when the driver’s phone is lost, damaged, or out of battery. These use cases highlight that while the cards may be used less frequently, they still provide a valuable safety net for certain scenarios.
The Cost Perspective
There’s also a practical financial component. Replacement key cards are available on the Tesla Shop for $40 per set, so excluding them from new vehicle deliveries could yield savings in production and logistics. While seemingly a small adjustment, this move fits Tesla’s ongoing strategy to trim costs and maintain competitive pricing in an increasingly crowded EV market.
How the Community Is Responding
News of the potential change has divided Tesla owners. Many welcome the shift, noting that the Phone Key is more than adequate for daily use. Others, however, voice concerns about losing a reliable backup option, particularly during emergencies. A few enthusiasts have even taken extreme measures—such as embedding RFID chips into their hands—to ensure permanent, keyless access to their vehicles, demonstrating the passion and innovation within Tesla’s community.
Conclusion
Tesla’s rumored plan to eliminate key cards underscores its commitment to advancing digital-first vehicle access and embracing a fully connected ownership experience. While the physical key card may soon become a relic of Tesla’s past, the shift reflects a broader industry trend toward seamless smartphone integration. As Tesla continues to refine this transition, the key question will be how effectively it balances technological convenience with accessibility and user peace of mind.