What to Look for When Buying a Used Tesla in Utah

If you’ve been thinking about buying a used Tesla, you’re not alone. More drivers are realizing that stepping into the electric vehicle (EV) world doesn’t always mean you have to buy brand new. Tesla vehicles hold their value pretty well, they’re loaded with technology, and they can be a great long-term option if you know what to look for. But like any used car, it pays to do your homework before you sign on the dotted line.

In this guide, we’ll break down what matters most when shopping for a used Tesla.

Start with the Right Model for You

Tesla has a lineup that appeals to different needs:

• Tesla Model 3: A popular option for anyone buying their first Tesla. It’s sleek, efficient, and typically one of the more affordable ways into Tesla ownership.
• Model Y: This SUV-style Tesla is quickly becoming a favorite. If you’re after space, comfort, and range, a used Model Y could be a great fit.
• Model X: Known for its falcon wing doors and large size, it’s perfect if you need room for passengers and cargo.
• Model S: Tesla’s luxury sedan with strong performance, especially in long range or Plaid specs.

The key is figuring out which Tesla model actually matches your lifestyle. If you’re hauling kids and sports gear, a used Tesla Model Y or Model X makes more sense than a compact Model 3.

Check the Battery Health

Battery health is the single most important thing to consider when buying a used Tesla. Unlike gas engines, where mileage tells part of the story, the condition of a Tesla’s battery pack can determine how much range you’ll get and how much life is left in the car.

Things to look into:

• State of Health: Ask about the battery’s range compared to when it was new.
• Charging Habits: Cars that were supercharged often or charged to 100% daily may see faster degradation.
• Warranty: Tesla’s battery warranty usually covers 8 years (or up to 120,000–150,000 miles depending on the model). If the used Tesla you’re considering is still under warranty, that’s a huge plus.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, schedule a visit at a Tesla service center to get an official health check.

Warranty and Extended Warranty Options

When you’re buying a used vehicle, warranty coverage can make or break the deal. Tesla offers:

• New Vehicle Limited Warranty: Covers 4 years or 50,000 miles.
• Battery and Drive Unit Warranty: 8 years, depending on the model year.

If the Tesla you’re looking at is older, you may want to ask about an extended warranty or third-party coverage. Some dealerships even offer certified pre-owned (CPO) Teslas that come with added protection.

Look Into Software and Features

Teslas aren’t just cars—they’re rolling computers. And that means software matters almost as much as hardware.

• Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD): Check if the used Tesla has Autopilot or FSD purchased already. This feature can add thousands of dollars in value.
• Software Updates: Ask if the car is still receiving updates. Most Teslas continue to get improvements via over-the-air updates, which is a huge perk compared to traditional cars.
• Touchscreen Condition: Since almost all Tesla functions are controlled through the touchscreen, make sure it’s responsive and free of major defects.

Pro tip: Pair the car with your Tesla app during the test drive to see how everything connects.

Charging and Supercharging Access

Charging infrastructure is one of the reasons people love Tesla vehicles. Before buying a used Tesla, ask about:

• Supercharging Access: Some older Teslas came with free unlimited Supercharging. If the seller still has it attached to the car, that’s a good deal.
• Home Charging: Check if the car comes with the mobile connector or wall connector.
• Local Charging Infrastructure: If you’re in Utah, Tesla superchargers are growing fast, but make sure there are convenient stations near your routes.

Mileage and Model Year

Like any used car, mileage and model year matter. A 2018 Tesla Model 3 with 80,000 miles will likely be priced lower than a 2022 Model 3 with just 20,000 miles. But remember, Teslas don’t follow the same wear-and-tear patterns as gas vehicles thanks to fewer moving parts.

Still, it’s smart to:

• Ask about service records through Tesla’s website or app.
• Check if the car has had major updates or hardware changes for that model year.
• Review if the car qualifies for an EV tax credit under current guidelines for used EVs.

Where You’re Buying Matters

You can buy a used Tesla through:

• Dealerships: Buying locally at a dealership often means you’ll get more transparency, financing options, and possibly a warranty.
• Tesla.com Used Inventory: Tesla lists pre-owned Teslas directly on its site, often inspected and backed by a limited warranty.
• Private Party / Private Seller: You might find a good deal here, but you’ll want to be extra cautious about inspection, service records, and features.

Each option has its pros and cons. For peace of mind, many buyers prefer going through a dealership or Tesla’s official site instead of a private party.

Don’t Skip the Test Drive

Even if you’ve driven a new Tesla before, it’s smart to test drive the specific used Tesla you’re buying. Here’s what to watch for:

• Acceleration and Handling: Teslas are known for quick acceleration. Make sure the performance matches the spec you’re buying.
• Noise: Listen for any unusual sounds. EVs should be quiet.
• Touchscreen and Features: Test navigation, music, climate control, and Autopilot features.
• Charging Port: Make sure it connects smoothly with a Tesla supercharger or home charger.

A test drive is also a good time to check comfort, visibility, and fit—especially if this will be your daily driver.

Resale Value and Trade-In

If you’re planning on keeping your Tesla for a while, resale value may not be top of mind. But it’s still worth thinking about. Teslas typically hold their value better than many other EVs. Plus, if you’re trading in another car, check dealership trade-in options to see if you can stack some savings.

Red Flags to Watch For

While Teslas are reliable overall, here are a few things that should give you pause:

• No service history available
• Signs of accident repair not done at a Tesla service center
• Battery range much lower than expected for the model year
• Touchscreen glitches or unresponsive features
• Private sellers unwilling to let you connect the Tesla app or schedule a service inspection

If you notice any of these, it might be best to walk away and find a cleaner option.

Why Buying a Used Tesla Can Be a Smart Move

At the end of the day, buying a used Tesla is about more than just saving money compared to a new car. You’re getting access to a powerful charging infrastructure, ongoing software improvements, and one of the most innovative EV brands in the world.

If you do your homework, you’ll have a pre-owned Tesla that feels almost as exciting as driving off the lot in a brand new one.

So, whether you’re eyeing a used Tesla Model Y for family trips, a used Model 3 for your daily commute, or even a long range Model S for road trips across Utah, the right car is out there. And when you find it, you’ll quickly see why so many Tesla owners are loyal to the brand.

Find a Used Tesla at Our Utah and Idaho Dealerships

Start your search today at Axio Automotive and explore our wide selection of pre-owned EVs. Want more insights before making a decision? Check out our guide on How Many Miles Does a Tesla Last for even more insights.

Check out our 10 locations at Generous Auto, Axio EV, Axio Auto Sandy, Axio Auto Southtowne, Axio Auto Orem, Axio Auto Ogden, Axio Auto Wall Ave, Axio Auto Boise, Boise Mitsubishi, and Southtowne Mitsubishi.