2021 USED TESLA BUYING GUIDE

EV Channels Review

This video serves as a comprehensive guide for purchasing a used Tesla in 2021, addressing the current market conditions driven by chip shortages and increased demand. The reviewer highlights key considerations such as Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities, explaining the different versions and their implications for used car buyers. While acknowledging the potential of FSD, the reviewer expresses reservations about its current value proposition and the $10,000 cost, suggesting that basic Autopilot features are often sufficient. The guide also delves into crucial aspects like vehicle range, emphasizing the difference between EPA estimates and real-world performance, and the impact of battery degradation on older models. Build quality is discussed, with a caution for earlier models (low VINs) that may exhibit more issues. The reviewer notes that while cosmetic and minor feature updates have occurred in Model 3 and Y over the years, the core driving experience and on-screen features remain largely consistent, making older models a compelling value. The video recommends purchasing directly from Tesla's used inventory for clarity on features and warranties, and advises comparing trade-in offers from other sources. Ultimately, the video concludes that buying a used Tesla is a viable and enjoyable option, with electric powertrains offering simpler maintenance compared to internal combustion engines.