Unlocking and Starting Using Mobile App

You can use your mobile app to unlock and start Model S. This may be useful in cases where you do not have your key fob or are not physically close to the vehicle (for example, you want to unlock the vehicle for your spouse from across town).

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Note
Your phone and vehicle must both be actively connected to cellular service and mobile access must be enabled on the touchscreen (Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access) to allow the mobile app to communicate with your vehicle. Tesla recommends that you always have a functional physical key readily available if parking in an area with limited or absent cellular service, such as an indoor parking garage.

To unlock your vehicle using the mobile app:

  1. Open the Tesla mobile app on your smartphone.
  2. Touch the Lock icon
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    Note
    Remember to press the Lock icon when you are ready to lock your vehicle.
    .

To start your vehicle using the mobile app:

  1. Open the Tesla mobile app on your phone.
  2. Touch Controls > Start.
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    Note
    You will have two minutes to start driving after enabling keyless driving. If the two-minute window has expired prior to driving you will need to re-enable keyless driving.