Tesla errors and common problems

App won't connect: Car asleep after standing or battery low

Means

The app may fail to reach the car when it has been idle for a long time or its battery is very low. Tesla also says Mobile Access must be on, and both the phone and the car need mobile signal.

First step

Wake the car by opening a door or the trunk, or by pressing the brake pedal. All steps

Phone key not working: Bluetooth, location or battery settings on the phone

Means

The phone key works over Bluetooth and depends on several phone settings. Tesla lists third-party Tesla apps, location access, airplane and power-saving modes and an old app version as common causes.

First step

Remove any third-party Tesla vehicle apps from your phone. All steps

App not working: Old version, VPN or sign-in problem

Means

When the app is slow or stops responding, Tesla points to the app version, VPNs on the phone and the account you are signed in with.

First step

Sign out and sign back in with the email address of your Tesla Account. All steps

Can't sign in: Wrong email or password on the account

Means

The app uses the same email address and password you used to order the car. Tesla says sign-in often fails because the order was placed with a different email or the email was misspelled.

First step

Sign in with the email address and password you used to place your order. All steps

Phone key setup failed: Too far from the car or Bluetooth stuck

Means

Setting up a phone key needs Bluetooth, Mobile Access and you being close to the car. Tesla says automatic setup can fail when you are too far away, and the app then asks for your key card.

First step

Update the Tesla app and turn on Bluetooth on your phone. All steps

Car missing from app: Car not on the account or Mobile Access off

Means

The car only appears when it is linked to your Tesla Account and Mobile Access is on in the car. Tesla notes the car must also be delivered before app features work.

First step

Tap the menu at the top right, then 'Add/Remove Products' > 'Vehicle', and follow the steps to add the car. All steps

Mobile Access Disabled: Mobile Access off or car in Service Mode

Means

Tesla says this error shows when Mobile Access is switched off in the car or the car is in Service Mode, which blocks some app functions during repairs.

First step

On the touchscreen, tap 'Controls' > 'Safety & Security' and turn on 'Allow Mobile Access'. All steps