Teslas are like the cars of steel of the electric car world. They are safe, hold their value well and offer a glimpse into the future of gasoline-free motoring.
This makes them an attractive, used car option. But there are a few things to look out for.
Safety
There is almost always a valid reason to buy a new EV, but the Tesla Model 3, in particular, sells used at a much higher rate than many other cars on the market (the turnover of current stock is 5.5X). That can be a significant factor for people considering the choice to go with a used Model 3.
The car’s condition is one of the most important things to consider when buying a used Tesla. You should check the body for signs of crash damage, uneven panel gaps, and a cracked sunroof (those aren’t necessarily caused by crashing but can point to other issues).
It’s also worth asking the seller for the service record for the car, as you can often see this information on the MyTesla app. This can be helpful to understand if the owner took their car to Tesla or an independent service center and how well the vehicle has been looked after in general.
It’s also a good idea to purchase a Tesla from the 2020 or later range (or a 2021 or later Model Y). These models were updated to fix some of the original problems with the car, and they have a much better chance of being reliable in the long term.
Reliability
The Model 3 is one of the best premium electric cars on the market, achieving high marks in consumer surveys. Unlike the larger Model X and smaller Model Y SUVs, it is a four-door saloon suitable for families who need space in the back. As such, it’s one of the most popular used Tesla models around.
In addition, Tesla’s suite of autopilot driver-assistance features – improved over time – are impressively capable and can be very helpful in keeping you safe on the road. This is another reason why the company’s car is so attractive to new and returning drivers.
So, where to buy a used Tesla Model 3? Tesla’s site is an excellent place to start searching for a pre-owned Model 3, especially if you are looking for a low-mileage example. They offer a full 4-year/50,000-mile warranty for any used Tesla car purchased through their dealerships, and buyers can expect the same level of cosmetic and mechanical standards when buying from them as they would when purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned car from a traditional dealer.
It’s worth pointing out that older Model 3s do not include certain features, particularly autopilot, which was first introduced in 2014 on all cars manufactured before that date. If you’re buying from a private seller, make sure they can show you the vehicle’s service record through the app before handing over your cash.
Performance
When it comes to buying a car, you have plenty of options. You can visit thousands of dealers or browse dozens of popular classified-listing websites. And then there’s always the option of buying from a private seller. This is often the best choice for a used Tesla Model 3 because it prevents you from paying extra fees and taxes for a new car purchase.
In addition, private sellers are more likely to be upfront about any problems with the car they’re selling. This way, you’ll know whether or not the vehicle has been damaged and if there are any issues with the electronics or battery.
Finally, if you buy a used Tesla from a dealer, they’ll likely have strict mechanical and cosmetic standards for their cars. This means your chances of finding a clean, well-maintained Tesla are much higher when you shop at a dealership.
Regarding the actual car, the Tesla Model 3 is a blast to drive. Its powerful acceleration makes it quick to get up to speed, and its battery allows it to travel for miles on a single charge. And its impressive suite of driver-assistance features is sure to impress passengers. Plus, the massive infotainment display feels like a McDonald’s self-service screen and lets you control every aspect of the car from one place.
Value
The Model 3 is a trendy car, and that has caused its price to go up quite a bit. It’s still an exciting car to drive, though, and it offers some pretty impressive technology for its price.
While a new Tesla can be expensive, getting a used Model 3 for less than half its original price is possible. Of course, a used Tesla isn’t without its issues, and you must be careful when buying one.
For example, you need to ensure the battery is in good condition. You also need to check the car for things like squeaks and grinding. It would help if you looked for uneven panel gaps, which could indicate poor factory construction or crash damage. Finally, you need to check that the sunroof works properly and doesn’t have cracks in it.
However, these are all relatively minor concerns compared to the cost savings you can achieve by purchasing a used Tesla Model 3. Research has shown that Teslas depreciate very quickly, meaning they can be bought for pretty low prices even after a few years of ownership.
