Tesla
Battery, hardware and software, counted
A Tesla is priced on things a quick look can’t show: battery health, the Autopilot computer and the software that stays with the car. We ask for a range screenshot and work out the hardware from the model and build date. Model S and Model X production ended in May 2026, and we still price both by year and version.
The models we buy most.
Model Y
2020-; refreshed design delivered from early 2025
Compact electric SUV
Long Range against Standard, AWD and the refreshed design lead, then battery health. US-built cars got Hardware 4 from about mid-2023, and the seven-seat option, where fitted, counts.
Model 3
2017-; refreshed for 2024
Electric sedan
Battery version, from Standard to Long Range and Performance, and the 2024 refresh lead, and AWD against rear-drive counts. 2017-2023 cars use Hardware 3.
Model S
2012 until production ended in May 2026; refreshed for 2021
Electric full-size sedan
The 2021 refresh with its new cabin, then Plaid against Long Range. Cars bought after about March 2023 are likely Hardware 4.
Model X
2016 until production ended in May 2026; refreshed for 2021-2022
Electric three-row SUV
Seating count, Plaid against Long Range, and falcon-wing doors that open and close cleanly are checked. Towing gear, where fitted, counts.
Cybertruck
2024- (deliveries from November 2023)
Electric pickup
The version, from rear-drive to the tri-motor Cyberbeast, and the condition of the stainless panels lead. Every Cybertruck has Hardware 4, and wraps or bed accessories are noted.
Model S and X Plaid
2021-2026
Tri-motor performance versions
Priced above Long Range. Track or brake upgrades, where fitted, count, and so does tire wear, which we check from your photos.
What moves the price.
Battery health
Range at full charge tells us the most. A screenshot of the range shown at a full charge helps, taken on a mild day if you can.
Autopilot computer
Hardware 4 came on Model S and X from about early 2023, on US-built Model Y from about mid-2023, on the refreshed Model 3 and on every Cybertruck. Earlier cars use Hardware 3, and the Software screen in the car shows which yours has.
FSD on the car
Full Self-Driving bought outright can add to the price. Tesla ended one-time transfers for orders after March 31, 2026, and now sells FSD as a subscription, so we confirm what stays on the car.
Battery and drive unit warranty
Under Tesla’s current US terms, Model 3 and Model Y Long Range and Performance carry 8 years or 120,000 miles, and Model S, Model X and Cybertruck 8 years or 150,000 miles.
Wheels, glass and panels
Curb rash on large wheels, chips in the glass roof and panel gaps are checked from your photos. Close-ups of each wheel help.
Leased Tesla: buyouts since late 2024
Tesla Finance
Since November 27, 2024, Tesla has let US lessees buy out leases on all its passenger models, except in Iowa and Louisiana. One report says outside dealers can buy a leased Tesla too, while some large buyers list Tesla leases as ones they can’t take, so you may need to buy the car out first. We confirm on your contract.
Paperwork and records.
Who holds the loan
Check your statement for who holds the loan, Tesla Finance or a bank, and send that account number. We pay that lender directly from the sale.
Remove the car from your account
Once you’re paid and the car leaves, remove it from your Tesla account in the app under My Products, so the next owner can add it.
Key cards and charging gear
Bring every key card and key fob, and the Mobile Connector if you have one. A phone key stays with you.
Software screen
A photo of the Software screen shows whether FSD is on the car and which Autopilot computer it has. Tell us if you plan to move FSD.
Keep Tesla service invoices from the app, any battery or drive unit work, and a full-charge range screenshot. Tire and alignment receipts help too. Tesla recalls, including the ones fixed over the air, show by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Questions.
I’m moving my FSD to a new Tesla. Does that change my offer?
Can you buy my leased Tesla?
Should I charge the car before pickup?
How do you work out what my Tesla is worth?
Do you buy a Model S or Model X now that production has ended?
What should I do in the Tesla app before pickup?