Best Tesla Model S To Buy Used

So, you're thinking about joining the cool kids' club and getting yourself a Tesla Model S, huh? Awesome! But buying new can feel like paying for a fancy restaurant you only kinda like. A used Model S? Now that's like finding a hidden gem of a food truck – amazing eats without emptying your wallet. Let's talk about which used Model S is the best bang for your buck.

Why should you even care? Well, a Model S isn't just a car; it's a statement. It's saying, "I care about the environment," but also, "I appreciate ridiculously fast acceleration." It’s like wearing a superhero cape under your everyday clothes – powerful and secretly thrilling.

The Sweet Spot: 2016-2018 Models

Think of the 2016-2018 Model S years as the "Goldilocks zone." Not too old, not too new, but just right. These models offer a fantastic blend of features, technology, and, most importantly, a price that won't make you weep silently into your morning coffee.

Why these years? They come with the AP1 (Autopilot 1) or AP2 (Autopilot 2) hardware. AP1 is more like a really good lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control – like a super-competent co-pilot on a long road trip. AP2 is a step up, offering more advanced features, although it's not quite the full self-driving promised land yet. But hey, it's still pretty darn cool!

Imagine you're parallel parking in a crowded city street. AP can lend a helping hand, making you look like a parking pro even if you're secretly sweating bullets. Seriously, it's a game-changer.

Battery Size Matters (a Lot!)

Okay, let's talk about the heart of the matter: the battery. You'll see numbers like 75D, 90D, and 100D. What do they mean? Simply put, the higher the number, the bigger the battery and the more range you get. It’s like the difference between a small coffee and a venti – you want that venti for a long day!

The 75D is a solid choice for daily commutes and errands. Think of it as the reliable workhorse. But if you're planning on road trips or just want that extra buffer of range anxiety-free driving, the 90D or 100D are worth the extra investment. Especially if you live in a colder climate. Cold weather can significantly reduce battery range, so having that extra capacity is a huge plus.

Imagine trying to make it to that roadside diner 200 miles away, and your battery’s showing empty 20 miles out. NOT fun! That extra range can be the difference between a relaxing road trip and a frantic search for a charging station in the middle of nowhere.

Features to Look For

Beyond battery size, here are a few features that will make your used Model S experience even better:

* Premium Upgrades Package: This is a must-have! It includes things like leather seats, upgraded sound system, and ambient lighting. Basically, it makes the interior feel less like a tech lab and more like a luxury spaceship. * Panoramic Sunroof: Because who doesn't love letting the sunshine in? It makes the cabin feel brighter and more spacious. It's like having your own personal sky view. * Air Suspension: This adjusts the car's ride height, making it smoother and more comfortable. Think of it as riding on a cloud (a very fast cloud!). * Supercharging Access: Make sure the car has access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. It’s like having a secret VIP pass to the best gas stations in the country – only they're charging stations, and they're powered by electricity!

Things to Watch Out For

Buying a used car always comes with risks. Here are a few things to keep in mind when inspecting a used Model S:

* Battery Health: Ask for a battery health report. You want to know how much degradation has occurred over time. A healthy battery is a happy battery (and a happy owner!). * Accident History: Always run a vehicle history report to check for any accidents or damage. Knowledge is power! * Autopilot Functionality: Test the Autopilot features to make sure they're working properly. If the car struggles to stay in its lane or has trouble with adaptive cruise control, that's a red flag. * Software Updates: Ensure the car can still receive software updates. Tesla constantly improves its cars with over-the-air updates, so you want to make sure you're not missing out on new features and bug fixes.

Ultimately, the best used Tesla Model S for you depends on your budget, needs, and preferences. But by focusing on the 2016-2018 models with a larger battery and desirable features, you're well on your way to finding a fantastic EV that will turn heads and put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. Happy driving!