Buying a used Tesla is an exciting time in your life. One that you want to make sure you get right and avoid becoming one of the people telling a horror story about their Tesla buying experience. The main thing to complete before you start the process is to do some research on the models that are available and find the one that works the best for you.
For example, if you like highway cruising, you will want to check out the Tesla Model 3. Or, if you like to drive off the beaten path, you may want to lean more toward a Tesla Model Y. Now, that is not to say that any Tesla is built for hard off-road driving. Still, each model has its own specific benefits, so go to a site such as Consumer Reports and find the one that fits you and your lifestyle.
From there, the fun can begin, so let’s get into what to look for when buying a used Tesla so you can approach the task with your eyes open and your mind clear.
Check Out The Exterior Of The Used Tesla
Once you get to a reputable used Tesla car lot, you will want to walk around and find a couple of vehicles that interest you. Approach them slowly, looking for any immediate defects that appear. You will also want to look under the car to see if there are any stains left from a possible fluid leak.
Now granted, a Tesla will not have any oil to worry about leaking out, but brake lines and such can still leak. Once you get up to the car, walk around it, checking for any apparent damage that could have been caused by an accident. Take the time to run a background check on the vehicle, such as a CarFax report, to ensure the used Tesla has not had any instances where significant damage was fixed.
Check Out The Interior Of The Used Tesla
The next step in the process of looking for used Teslas to buy will be to climb into the car and check out the interior. Look for any damage, broken parts, or things in the car that shouldn’t be. If you completed the research before coming to the lot, you will know what the vehicle you are looking at should have inside and what add-on options could also be present because the original buyer opted to have them included.
Start the Tesla up and check out the electronics and the infotainment center. Play with some of the buttons to make sure that everything works as it should. Obviously, there may be some settings that will not work until you are out on the road with it, but for now, you want to at least make sure that all the options are available that should be and that they work when touched.
Take The Used Tesla For A Test Drive
Now the fun begins. It is time to take the used Tesla for a test drive around town and on the nearest highway. Use the blinkers, headlights, and interior lights to ensure they work correctly. Turn them off once you get on the drive, turn the radio off, and listen to the car once you get pulled onto the road.
You will want to listen for any sounds that should not be present while paying attention to the acceleration, feeling for any slippage or hesitation. Once you are satisfied with the car, it is always a good idea to take it to a mechanic you trust to check it out before signing any contracts or loan papers.
Other than that, get the papers drawn up and drive your new, used Tesla home to show off to the rest of your family and friends.
