A small but significant change in Tesla’s official owner’s manual suggested that an accessory previously included as standard might become optional: key cards. In the Model 3 and Model Y manual updates discussed in this November 2025 report, the explicit reference to supplying “two key cards designed to fit in a wallet” had disappeared, wording present since Model 3’s 2017 debut.
Goodbye to included key cards?
The change was particularly interesting because it came close to the launch of the more affordable, simplified Standard versions of Tesla’s two main models. Although the manual covers all variants, the timing suggested that new entry-level versions might already omit key cards from the delivery package.
Since 2017, the credit-card-sized keys had been an essential part of Tesla’s delivery kit. Although Phone Key, using a smartphone as the key, is the main and most convenient access method for many customers, the key card has always provided an important backup when a phone’s battery runs flat.
Phone Key alone?
If the removal were confirmed, new owners would rely on the Tesla app and a paired smartphone for the access method supplied with the car. Recent Tesla hardware includes ultra-wideband technology, making compatible Phone Key connections more stable and precise. Nevertheless, having no physical or NFC backup key could create difficulties when something unexpected happens.
Compatible Android phones with NFC can also use a less widely known function: acting like a key card when held against the door pillar to unlock the car. It is a useful alternative, but does not fully replace the practicality of a dedicated card.
Cutting costs… at the expense of a backup?
If confirmed, the change would mean key cards becoming a paid accessory, bought separately from Tesla’s store for around €40 a pair at the time. A small amount for the company could make a difference to a customer in an unexpected situation.
The report interpreted the possible change as part of Tesla’s efforts to reduce costs for its new entry-level versions, while raising questions about the balance between efficiency and practicality. Key cards provide a simple, inexpensive backup; their absence could leave someone locked out of their car.
💶 REFERRAL PROGRAMME 🚘
Get a benefit when buying your new Tesla!
Click the following link to apply the referral and order the car through the normal purchase process (or copy and paste it into Google):
https://www.Teslhub.com/Vantaggio
👏 That’s it!
The referral link is also available in our bio under “Buy a Tesla” and in our website menu under the same heading.
🌐 STAY UP TO DATE 📢
If you do not want to miss any news, these are great places to stay up to date.
Join Teslhub Members: a whole community on Telegram to talk, ask questions and share Tesla experiences with us and other members. Find us on WhatsApp too!
Enjoy the rest of your day. See you in the next article or on our social channels.
Until next time!
Giorgio Rebecchi
Editor
Let’s discuss it
Experiences, questions and perspectives from the Teslhub community.
Please keep the discussion respectful. Members’ comments are moderated before publication.
Start the conversation. Leave the first comment.