Is it the best time to buy a used Tesla Model 3, or should you give up on the EV?
How car buyers can find value in the used electric vehicle market
For those in the market for a used electric car, you may find good value by looking beyond Teslas.
- Used Tesla Model 3 prices are dropping, creating an opportunity for used car buyers.
- Prospective buyers should consider battery deterioration and develop a reliable charging plan before purchasing.
Tesla’s best-selling electric sedan is now incredibly affordable as a used car.
Between depreciation and the current administration’s efforts to reduce EV charging and incentives, market prices for many used electric vehicles have plummeted. This may not be great news for owners who want to preserve their value, but it’s an opportunity for used car buyers who are willing to take a risk on a vehicle that has accumulated some mileage over the years.
Tesla’s Model 3 sedan has consistently been one of the best-selling EVs in the country because it’s well-balanced, fun to drive, and customizable with each trim. Here’s how much a used Model 3 will cost in 2026 and whether a used Model 3 is worth considering.
How much will a used Tesla Model 3 cost in 2026?
Used Tesla Model 3 prices vary by model year and mileage as of 2026, but the most affordable Model 3 listed on used car site CarMax is the 2019 Model 3 Standard Range, priced at $18,998 before delivery, taxes, and surcharges. The mileage is now 73,000 miles.
CarMax currently has three Model 3 EVs listed for $18,998, as well as newer, low-mileage Model 3s listed for less than $20,000. Carvana also has many used Model 3 EVs for sale for under $20,000 before shipping.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the fair purchase price for a 2019 Model 3 Standard Range with average mileage as listed on CarMax is $17,590, with a typical list price of $19,240. The MSRP for the 2019 Tesla Model 3 when it was first released was approximately $36,200, so some of these models have dropped in price by as much as $17,202 in just a few years.
Tesla Model 3 specifications and features
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range produces 271 horsepower, which is exhilarating for its size. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The 2019 Model 3 has a standard range of 220 miles, but the range will decrease slightly due to battery degradation in used cars.
The Model 3 EV comes standard with a large 15.0-inch infotainment system. This electric sedan also has a standard moonroof, heated mirrors, and parking sensors. It also has a standard pre-crash safety system, tire pressure monitoring, and a four-wheel anti-lock braking system.
Should you buy a used Tesla Model 3 in 2026?
The Tesla Model 3 is a great vehicle in terms of performance. It has plenty of power and a good range for a used EV. Additionally, Model 3 can take advantage of the extensive Tesla Supercharger network, making charging sessions faster and easier for drivers.
The 2019 model has a “minimalistic interior design” that “feels chic, modern, and luxurious,” Edmunds said. Kelley Blue Book praises the 2020 model’s software updates, driver assistance features, and infotainment system.
If you’re looking for a used electric sedan, there are plenty of reliable Tesla Model 3 options to choose from, from newer models to older models.
What drivers need to know before buying an EV
One of the most difficult parts of owning an electric car in 2026 is charging the vehicle. Charging infrastructure may have improved significantly over the past few years, but it still has a long way to go when it comes to convenience.
Before you decide to own an electric car in 2026, be sure to create a charging plan that fits your commuting needs.
Charging planning questions drivers should ask before buying an EV
- Where do I charge my electric car most often?
- How much does it cost to charge an EV per session?
- Do you have access to reliable public charging services?
- Is it okay to install a home charger?
Owning an EV can be difficult if you don’t have access to reliable public chargers and aren’t willing to install a home charger. Unlike gasoline cars, EVs are completely dependent on long charging sessions with a charger, which can be tricky in some locations.
Before you commit to owning an EV, experiencing life (and charging) as a potential electric car owner with a trial or rental can help you make an informed purchasing decision.
