Used Tesla Checklist: What to Look For Before Buying a Used Tesla

Used Tesla Checklist: What to Look For Before Buying a Used Tesla

If you do your research, a used Tesla can be a great long-term investment and a reasonably priced alternative to buying a new one.  As more pre-owned Teslas enter the market, many potential buyers are considering this eco-friendly and technologically advanced option. 

Teslas provide amazing performance and advanced features, but when purchasing used, there are several common issues to be aware of. This comprehensive used Tesla checklist will help ensure you make an informed selection on a used Tesla and avoid costly surprises down the road.

Essential Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Exterior Examination

A careful exterior inspection can reveal signs of damage, poor maintenance, or factory defects that might affect both appearance and function. Tesla’s build quality has been known to vary, so a thorough examination is necessary.

What to Look For:

• Examine body panels for any misalignment, gaps, dents or paint inconsistencies
• Check for scratches, chips or discolouration in the paint
• Inspect the windshield, windows and glass roof panels (if applicable) for cracks or chips
• Perform a penny test on the tire treads and look for any uneven wear
• Examine brake rotors and pads for excessive rust or wear
• Look underneath for any signs of damage or fluid leaks
• Check the condition of the charging port door and mechanism
• Inspect the condition of exterior cameras and sensors

Don’t hesitate to bring a flashlight to thoroughly inspect dark areas. Take your time and be diligent; what may appear like small cosmetic concerns could suggest more serious underlying problems. Pay particular attention to panel gaps and alignment, as these have been common complaints among Tesla owners.

Used Tesla Checklist: What to Look For Before Buying a Used Tesla

Test All Doors, Trunk, and Frunk

Proper operation of doors and compartments is crucial for safety, functionality and preventing water intrusion. Tesla’s unique door handles and power-operated trunks require special attention.

What to Look For:

• Open and close all doors, listening for any abnormal sounds
• Test exterior door handles and interior release mechanisms
• Operate power windows smoothly through full range of motion
• Open and close the trunk and frunk, checking alignment and seals
• For Model S (2012-2018), test panoramic sunroof operation
• Check the function of power liftgates (if equipped)
• Verify that all door sensors are working correctly with the vehicle’s display

Pay special attention to door latches and handles, as these are common problem areas reported by Tesla owners. Ensure everything operates smoothly without sticking or making unusual noises. For models with falcon-wing doors, test their operation multiple times to check for consistency and proper sensor function.

Interior Checklist

The interior is where you’ll spend most of your time, so thorough inspection is essential for comfort and detecting potential issues. Tesla’s minimalist interiors can sometimes mask underlying problems.

What to Look For:

• Test all seat adjustments and check for proper support and padding.
• Inspect seat surfaces, carpets, and trim for excessive wear or damage
• Check the headliner and roof trim for any sagging or water stains
• Test all interior lights, buttons, and controls for proper function
• Examine displays for dead pixels, discoloration, or other defects
• Operate the climate control system, listening for abnormal noises
• Test the functionality of all USB ports and wireless charging pads
• Verify that the steering wheel controls work properly
• Check the condition of the center console and storage compartments

Don’t forget to conduct a “sniff test”—any musty odors could indicate water leaks or mould issues. Take time to sit in every seat position to ensure comfort and proper function. Pay special attention to the large touchscreen display, as this is the primary control center for the vehicle and can be expensive to replace if faulty.

Battery Evaluation and Charging

The battery pack is the most expensive component, so understanding its condition is crucial. Tesla’s batteries are known for their longevity, but it’s still important to verify their health.

What to Look For:

• Check displayed range at 100% charge and compare to original specs
• Use built-in diagnostics to assess battery health (if accessible)
• Test charging at different speeds (home charging and Supercharging)
• Inspect the charge port for damage and test the locking mechanism
• Verify inclusion of mobile charging cable and adapters (if applicable)
• Check the charging history in the vehicle’s logs (if available)
• Inquire about the frequency of Supercharging use by previous owner

Remember that some battery degradation is normal but shouldn’t exceed about 2% per year on average. Significant range loss could indicate serious and costly battery issues. It’s also worth noting that frequent use of Supercharging can potentially accelerate battery degradation over time.

Test Drive

A thorough test drive is essential to evaluate real-world performance and handling; it’s an essential step to detect any hidden issues. Tesla’s unique electric drivetrain and advanced features require a different approach to test driving.

What to Look For:

• Start with a fully charged battery
• Test acceleration and regenerative braking
• Evaluate steering feel and alignment
• Listen for unusual noises (suspension, drivetrain, wind noise)
• Test all driver assistance features (Autopilot, etc.)
• Monitor energy consumption vs. projected range
• Test different driving modes (if available)
• Evaluate ride comfort on various road surfaces
• Check for any dashboard warning lights or error messages
• Test the effectiveness of the air conditioning and heating systems

Pay close attention to how the car handles different road conditions. Any pulling to one side, vibrations, or odd noises warrant further investigation. Be sure to test the vehicle at highway speeds as well as in stop-and-go traffic to get a complete picture of its performance.

Software and Feature

Tesla’s frequent software updates and subscription-based features require careful verification. The software version can significantly impact the vehicle’s capabilities and user experience.

What to Look For:

• Check current software version and update history
• Verify the activation status of Autopilot/Full Self-Driving features
• Confirm transferability of any paid software upgrades
• Test connectivity features (GPS, streaming services, etc.)
• Verify Premium Connectivity status (if applicable)
• Check for any pending software updates
• Verify the inclusion of any paid upgrades (acceleration boost, etc.)

Remember that some features may be tied to the original owner and could be deactivated upon transfer of ownership. Always verify with Tesla which features and subscriptions will carry over. It’s also worth checking if the vehicle is eligible for any upcoming software updates that might add new features.

Review Service History and Warranty 

Understanding the vehicle’s maintenance history and remaining warranty coverage is vital for budgeting and peace of mind. Tesla’s unique service approach makes this step particularly important. So before finalizing your purchase, make sure you take these review steps:

CARFAX Report: Review for accident history and service records.

VIN Check: Contact Tesla service with the VIN to verify warranty status and features.

What to Look For:

• Obtain full service records from the previous owner(s)
• Verify remaining warranty coverage with Tesla
• Check for any open recalls or service bulletins
• Review accident history (if any) and nature of repairs
• Confirm transferability of extended warranty (if applicable)
• Inquire about any aftermarket modifications or repairs
• Check if the vehicle has been serviced at authorized Tesla service centers

Don’t hesitate to contact Tesla directly to verify warranty status and any transferable extended coverage options. It’s also worth checking if the vehicle has had any major components replaced, such as the battery or drive unit, as these may have separate warranty terms.

Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection

While potentially costly, a professional inspection by a Tesla-savvy mechanic can save you from expensive surprises. Tesla’s unique technology requires specialized knowledge for a thorough evaluation.

What to Look For:

• Thorough diagnostic scan for hidden issues
• Expert assessment of battery and drivetrain condition
• Verification of all features and software activation
• Detailed report to aid in price negotiations
• Evaluation of any aftermarket modifications
• Assessment of overall vehicle health and projected maintenance needs

A pre-purchase inspection is especially valuable for older models or vehicles with higher mileage. Consider using a Tesla-certified technician or a reputable third-party specialist familiar with electric vehicles.

Model Specific Checks for Used Teslas

Different Tesla models have their own quirks and potential issues to be aware of:

For Model S and X, check the condition of the air suspension system. Check for cracks, especially where edges connect.

On early Model S vehicles, inspect the door handles and MCU (Media Control Unit) for proper function. Listen for whirring or grinding sounds, particularly in pre-2015 models.

For Model 3 and Y, pay attention to paint quality and panel fitment. On early Model 3 vehicles, check for fogging and water penetration.

On Tesla Performance models, check the condition of larger brakes and wheels. Verify that the badge matches the information in the instrument cluster.

Purchasing a used Tesla can be an exciting step into the world of premium electric vehicles. By following this comprehensive guide, you’re giving yourself the knowledge to make an informed decision. Remember, while Teslas are known for their creativity and performance, they’re not exempt from the wear and tear that impacts all vehicles. A thorough inspection and test drive, together with diligent paperwork assessment, will help verify that your used Tesla purchase is a smart investment in both your transportation needs and the future of green mobility.

Whether you’re drawn to the sleek Model S, the practical Model 3, or the versatile Model X, approaching your purchase with this level of diligence will help you enjoy the unique Tesla experience for years to come. Happy hunting, and may your electric dreams become a reality!

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