Oklahoma man bought the ‘cheapest Tesla in America’ for $5,000 but it was packed full of surprises
- Oklahoma man bought ‘cheapest Tesla in America’
- He paid just $5,000 for the 2013 Tesla Model S
- But it was packed full of hidden costs
Published on Nov 29, 2024 at 5:38 PM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
Last updated on Nov 29, 2024 at 5:39 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
As the battle between EV and ICE engines rumbles on, one Oklahoma-based YouTuber invested $5,000 in what’s been dubbed the ‘cheapest Tesla in America’.
At the time he believed that he’d bagged a great deal.
However, a mere two months later that financial façade ebbed away with several surprise costs popping up.
Consider this a cautionary tale on the hidden costs of buying a used EV.
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The ‘cheapest Tesla in America’
Randy Shear, who shares car-related content via Auto Auction Rebuilds bought a 2013 Tesla Model S for $5,000.
While he was filled with the satisfaction that comes with bagging a bargain – sadly it wasn’t to last.
While at first things ran smoothly, after just eight weeks his bargain became more of a financial burden.
He faced significant issues including battery failure, sensor malfunctions, and air suspension problems.
The expensive surprises
Of course, these repairs didn’t come cheap.
All of the EV’s problems totted up and amounted to a $7,085 fix.
You don’t have to be a hotshot at math to realize that these necessary repairs and part replacements surpassed the car’s actual value.
While EVs, and Teslas in particular, have been lauded as being cost-effective – especially when it comes to powering them – repairs aren’t inexpensive.
The complex technology in Teslas makes repairs expensive and requires specialized services.
What’s more, they seem to depreciate at a rate of knots, too.
In fact, one YouTuber says his Tesla Model S Plaid lost him $100,000 in two years.
Randy’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the hidden costs of buying used electric vehicles.
Despite his experience, Randy still reckons he’d do it again.
“I can’t recommend enough going out and buying an older used Tesla,” he said.
His advice? “If you can afford it have some money put back in the event that something goes catastrophically wrong.”
London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the experienced content creator and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms and coveted brands. When her OOO is on you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym or exploring the city she loves.
