
The worth of a Tesla varies dramatically, from around $30,000 for a used Model 3 to over $100,000 for a new Model S Plaid. The final price depends on the model, trim level, age, mileage, and the vehicle's specific features, particularly its battery and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability. Unlike traditional cars, a Tesla's value is heavily influenced by its software and battery health.
To give you a clear picture, here’s a breakdown of current estimated pricing for different models (prices are approximate and can fluctuate):
| Tesla Model & Trim | New Price (MSRP) | Used Price (3 years old, avg. mileage) | Key Value Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 Standard Range Plus | $40,000 | $28,000 - $32,000 | Battery degradation, basic Autopilot |
| Model 3 Long Range | $47,000 | $35,000 - $39,000 | Dual-motor AWD, longer range |
| Model Y Long Range | $50,000 | $38,000 - $43,000 | High SUV demand, practicality |
| Model S Long Range | $75,000 | $50,000 - $58,000 | Luxury features, air suspension |
| Model X Plaid | $95,000 | $70,000 - $80,000 | Performance, iconic falcon-wing doors |
| Cybertruck (Dual-Motor) | $80,000 | N/A (very new) | Extreme demand, novelty factor |
For a new Tesla, the price on Tesla's website is typically the starting point. However, potential federal and state EV tax credits can significantly reduce the net cost. For used models, the battery's state of health is the single most important factor. A Tesla with minimal battery degradation will command a much higher price. Additionally, a car with the purchased Full Self-Driving (FSD) package can be worth thousands more than an identical car with only basic Autopilot. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection that includes a battery health report before buying a used Tesla.

I just went through this. My 2020 Model 3 was worth about $32,000 on a trade-in. The dealer showed me the algorithm they use—it's all about the battery. Low mileage helps, but if the battery has lost more than 10% of its original range, the value tanks. The biggest surprise was that the $7,000 FSD package I bought only added about $2,000 to the trade-in value. They don't value the software nearly as much as the hardware.

Check the EV tax credit status first. A new Model 3 might be $40,000, but with the $7,500 federal credit, your net cost drops to $32,500. That makes a nearly new used one less attractive. Then, go to websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and CarGurus. Enter the exact model, year, mileage, and zip code. The "private party" value is what you could realistically get selling it yourself, while "trade-in" value is lower but hassle-free.

Think of it in terms of cost per mile of range. A used Model 3 with 270 miles of range for $30,000 is about $111 per mile. A new one with 320 miles for $40,000 (after credits) is $125 per mile. The used car is a better value on paper. But you're missing out on the latest hardware and a full battery warranty. It's a trade-off between upfront savings and long-term peace of mind.

The market is weird right now. A year ago, used Teslas were almost as expensive as new ones due to shortages. Now, prices have normalized. The best time to check value is at the end of a quarter when Tesla might offer discounts on new inventory to meet sales targets. This can temporarily depress used values. For the most accurate, real-time worth, get an instant cash offer from a service like Carvana or Vroom. It's a solid baseline.


