How to Safely Purchase a Used Tesla Model 3 Online
There are a few things to consider when buying a used Tesla Model 3 online. As with all used cars, you should thoroughly inspect the vehicle before delivering it. Tesla CPO vehicles are sold with a 70-point inspection and the remainder of the original warranty.
It includes checking that the car has an excellent driving range and is free to charge during non-peak times.
Make Sure the Car is in Excellent Condition
Buying a used car is always risky, but when it comes to Teslas, there are extra steps that you need to take. For one, you need to ensure the car is in excellent condition. It can be tricky since Teslas are so expensive. However, if you know what to look for, you can avoid many problems.
A Tesla specialist says you should look for panel gaps and misaligned trim. You should also pay attention to the car’s 12V battery, which powers some electronics and is vital for safety. If you have a multimeter, it’s worth taking a voltage reading of the battery to see how healthy it is.
Another thing to look for is corrosion on the regenerative braking system. You can check this by driving the car and putting it through short stops. If you hear a grinding noise, that is a sign of corrosion. In addition, you should check the charging point for any signs of wear and tear.
It would be prudent to exercise caution when purchasing a secondhand Model 3. The best option where to buy a used Tesla Model 3 is from a dealer because they have strict requirements for the mechanical and aesthetic quality of the vehicles they sell. Additionally, dealerships typically provide warranties for CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) vehicles.
Check the Warranty
If you purchase a used Tesla Model 3 from a private seller, you should always check the warranty to ensure it is valid and that you get all the desired features. You will also need to verify that you have the right to drive a Tesla, as some states do not allow them on public roads, especially those without dedicated highways or tunnels to get to them.
In addition to checking the car’s maintenance records, you should also look for any open recalls. Recalls are usually issued due to the manufacturer or the driver and vehicle standards agency finding faults that could lead to safety issues or major failures. If you notice an open recall on a Tesla you want to buy, ensure it is addressed before taking delivery.
Tesla Certified Pre-Owned cars (CPO) come with a 70-point inspection and the remainder of their original 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. They also offer an additional one year and 10,000 miles of extended warranty on top of this. In addition, the battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles (Standard Range) or for up to 90,000 miles on the Long Range and Performance models.
You should also consider an independent warranty provider to provide a long-term coverage plan for your Tesla. Many of these companies work with thousands of repair shops nationwide and may have coverage limits significantly longer than Tesla’s extended service warranty.
Check the Car’s Mileage
Few cars today combine widespread acclaim and advanced technology, like the Tesla Model 3. The car is also available as a used vehicle, and this can be an excellent option for those interested in getting one but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on a brand-new one.
Before purchasing a used Tesla, checking the car’s mileage is vital. It will help you avoid buying a model too old to be covered by the warranty. It is also a good idea to test-drive the vehicle before purchasing. It will give you a better idea of how the car performs and whether it fits your lifestyle well.
In addition to checking for a clean car fax and evidence of repainting, it is also essential to look at the service record on the Tesla. Private sellers may not have access to this information, but Tesla dealerships should be able to show you the information in the app.
The last thing you want is to buy a used Tesla with an out-of-warranty battery and motor coverage. Try to find a used Tesla built before February 2020 that still has a portion of the 8-year, unlimited-mile battery and motor warranty.
Check the Car’s History
As with any used car, you should always check a vehicle’s history before buying it. It includes checking for previous accident damage and evidence of repainting. It’s also important to know what features the car has. For example, it’s crucial to determine if the car has full self-driving capability or only enhanced autopilot.
Please also take the time to inspect the car’s bodywork. Look for panel gaps and misaligned trim. You should also check the lights and taillights for water penetration. It is crucial since Tesla’s use of aluminum can be very vulnerable to corrosion. Checking the roof for leaks is essential, as these can be very expensive to repair.
Another thing to remember is that Teslas are not hybrid cars or extended-range electric vehicles, where a gas engine backs up the battery power. It means that when the batteries run out, they must be charged at a supercharger station. It’s also important to check the car’s history to see if it has any recalls.
Finally, you should ensure the car has been inspected by an independent Tesla service center or a certified mechanic before purchasing it. Ensuring the car is in good condition and appropriately maintained is essential.
