Used Tesla buying guide
About Tesla
Tesla is an all-electric vehicle brand. The company sells sedans, SUVs, and a pickup. There are a range of vehicles to choose from including the sleek Model S with a range of battery size options, as well as performance options. For truck lovers, the futuristic Cybertruck is bound to turn heads while boasting good range and estimated towing capacity. Tesla attracts electric vehicle lovers as well as those interested in the latest automotive technologies.
What CarMax customers like
Fuel Economy,
Technology and Entertainment,
Cost to Maintain
What CarMax customers don’t like
Cabin Noise
Value
Interior Space
Tesla FAQs
When you buy a used Tesla, you enjoy advanced electric vehicle technology, helpful driver aids, exciting infotainment features, and much more. Some Tesla years and models offer tax credits, rebates, and incentives to help put a Tesla in your garage.
Some Tesla purchases do qualify for a tax credit of up to $7,500 under the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States. For the latest information about clean vehicle credits, please visit the Internal Revenue Service website.
The best year for a used Tesla is the one that fits your driving needs and budget. To find the one that suits you, start your research into the Tesla Cybertruck, Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y to discover which one has the features you need.
There are currently seven models of Tesla passenger vehicles. As of March 2025, Tesla's automotive lineup includes the Model S, Model 3, Model Y, New Model Y, Model X, Cybertruck, and Roadster. Take a look at CarMax's inventory and research pages to find out more about the different models and variations.
The Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y sedans both offer seating for five. The best model is the one that fits your driving needs. The 2025 Model 3 features rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, 24 cu-ft of cargo space, and an EPA-estimated 363-mile range on a full battery. While the 2025 Model Y has all-wheel drive, 76 cu-ft of cargo space, and an EPA-estimated 327-mile range on a full battery.
Ready to find your used Tesla?
RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.