Used Tesla Checklist Before Buying

How to check: Review touchscreen messages before and after driving and charging. For previous issues, request a service record showing the action taken. The absence of a current alert alone does not prove the absence of a fault.

Normal behaviour: No active fault messages. Gradual capacity change with age is expected; displayed range is an estimate.

Needs attention: Active or recurring alerts, unexplained repairs or a health percentage without a verifiable report. +2 only with no unresolved alerts and a confirmed resolution to established previous issues.

How to check: At a working compatible charger, check the port, cable locking and release, and stable operation without repeated interruptions. Record the charger and displayed power; do not compare it with DC charging power.

Normal behaviour: An active session without recurring errors. Power depends on the vehicle, charger, cable and settings. Scheduled waiting is not a fault.

Needs attention: Repeated interruptions, failure to charge or latch problems. Check another working charger/cable. +2 after a successful test without an unexplained error or limitation.

How to check: Run a session at a compatible rapid charger. Record the starting charge level, battery preparation, power and any messages. There is no universal “normal” kW figure for all Teslas; an unexplained limitation needs another test or diagnostics.

Normal behaviour: Power varies and usually falls as charge increases. A cold battery or the charger may limit it. Fans and the compressor may be clearly audible.

Needs attention: Repeated interruptions/errors or unexplained limits under suitable conditions and at another charger. One low kW reading does not establish a defect. +2 after a successful session under recorded conditions without unresolved symptoms.

How to check: Request an inspection on a suitable lift for impacts, deformation, leaks and repair evidence. Select Confirmed after a professional inspection with no unresolved findings, rather than a glance beneath a parked car.

Normal behaviour: No established damage to the enclosure/mounting or other unresolved finding.

Needs attention: Deformation, heavy impact, leaks or unexplained repairs. A surface mark and a damaged enclosure are not equivalent. +2 after professional inspection without a material unresolved finding.

How to check: Inspect a clean car in daylight, compare panels and gaps, and request repair records. A paint difference or uneven gap warrants investigation; it does not automatically prove a serious accident.

How to check: Suspicious seams, deformation, dampness or marks beneath carpets need an independent inspection and documented explanation. Select Issue found until the finding is explained.

How to check: Check sizes, compatibility, date codes, inner and outer wear, damage and pressures against the vehicle's label. Uneven wear warrants alignment and suspension checks. Record any replacement needed and an indicative quote.

How to check: Check cracks, headlights and brake lights, wipers and washers, windows, doors and both luggage compartments. Record broken parts, leaks and closing difficulties.

How to check: On a suitable route, check for pulling, vibration and repeated knocking. Distinguish normal operating sounds from symptoms needing specialist attention.

How to check: In safe conditions, use the brake pedal and check for pulling, vibration and unusual pedal feel. Request a disc and pad inspection; normal slowing when releasing the accelerator does not establish their condition.

How to check: Test warm and cool air, different fan speeds and windscreen airflow. Test heated features where fitted. Record unresolved issues for diagnostics and a quote.

How to check: Test the touchscreen, available camera views, keys and basic electrical functions. Compare paid software packages and active subscriptions with the listing; establish what remains after the sale. Installed hardware does not prove a purchased package. Test driver assistance only in suitable conditions with the driver's full attention.

How to check: Compare the VIN on the car and touchscreen with registration and sale documents. Check the variant, first registration date and consistency of available mileage records.

How to check: Request available invoices and repair records, including battery and drive unit work. Check applicable campaigns by VIN. The absence of annual service-book stamps alone is not a defect; evidence of work completed and unresolved questions matters more.

How to check: Compare personal or company details with the documents and request evidence of the basis for sale. Clarify finance, restrictions and transfer documents for the particular transaction; a plausible story about previous owners is not enough.

How to check: Clarify keys, accessories, transfer to the buyer's Tesla account and removal of the previous owner's access. Record responsibility, required documents and timing; seeing the car in the seller's app does not prove a completed transfer.

How to check: List defects, further checks and repair quotes. Select Confirmed after material findings are clarified and written terms establish what is fixed before handover and what remains for the buyer. If there are no findings, record that in the inspection notes.

How to check: Confirm the total amount, included equipment, applicable additional costs, deposit terms and handover in writing. Select Issue found if a material cost or term remains unclear.