Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your Tesla key fob isn't working? Typically, this frustration is caused by a low battery in your key fob, which is easily avoidable with a quick check-up. Checking the battery level in your Tesla key fob is fortunately simple and can be done right at home. Let's delve into the step-by-step process of checking the battery level of your Tesla key fob.
Before we start, ensure you have your Tesla key fob and access to the Tesla app, as we will use both for our demonstration.
Checking the Battery Level on your Tesla Key Fob
Tesla has made it easy for you to monitor the battery status of your key fob directly from your vehicle or via the Tesla app.
Let's look into both methods...
Checking via your Tesla Vehicle
Your Tesla vehicle provides a straightforward method to check the battery status of your key fob. Here's how:
1. First, ensure your Tesla is unlocked with the key fob inside the vehicle. This ensures that the key fob is within range of the car's communication system.
2. Press the 'Settings' button on your Tesla's touchscreen display.
3. Scroll down and tap 'Controls' then 'Locks'.
4. Under this section, you'll find the 'Key Fob Battery' status. The interface will display either 'Good', 'Low', or 'Critical' depending on the current battery level.
Checking via the Tesla App
The Tesla app is another convenient tool for checking your key fob's battery level. Here's how:
1. Open the Tesla app on your smartphone.
2. Ensure your phone is connected to the internet.
3. Whenever the Tesla app is active, it will periodically display the key fob battery status. You can also tap on your vehicle's name in the top-left corner, then scroll down to 'Vehicle Settings' and finally click on 'Controls'. Just like in the car, you'll find the 'Key Fob Battery' status here.
Understanding and Replacing the Key Fob Battery
By now, you should have a good understanding of how to check your key fob's battery status. Let's dive into how to interpret and replace the battery if necessary.
Most Tesla key fobs use a CR2032 or CR2450 battery, which can be easily replaced. Here's how you can do that...
Interpreting the Battery Status
A 'Good' status typically means your battery is at a comfortable level, with nothing to worry about at this stage.
If it says 'Low' or 'Critical', it's time to replace your battery. The 'Low' status means you have about 20-25% battery life left, while 'Critical' signifies under 10% remaining.
Replacing the Battery
Tesla key fobs are designed to be user-serviceable, so replacing the battery is a cinch.
1. Insert your key fob into a key slot or onto a keychain holder. This provides better leverage for opening the battery compartment.
2. While holding the fob in one hand, flip it over and locate the battery compartment on the opposite side of the Tesla logo.
3. Use a small flathead screwdriver or a SIM card tool to press and hold the small button located in the center of the compartment.
4. While keeping the button pressed, use another tool to pry the tiny wedges located at the top of the compartment. The compartment will pop open, revealing the battery.
5. Replace the old battery with a new CR2032 or CR2450 battery, ensuring the negative and positive sides are facing the correct direction.
6. Gently push the battery compartment back into its slot until it clicks into place. That's it! Your key fob is ready to go again. Remember to test it by locking and unlocking your car.
Now that you're equipped with all the necessary knowledge, you can continuously monitor your key fob's battery level and replace it as needed, ensuring you never miss another drive for this minor maintenance task.