Guy bought a Tesla Model 3 Performance for less than $25k but showed the hidden costs and problems he faced

Having bought a used Tesla Model 3 Performance for less than $25k, this YouTuber has documented their road trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, and unveiled all the issues with buying a used EV at this price.

Buying a used Tesla is typically the cheapest way to get on the EV train, becoming many drivers’ introduction to electric cars in the US.

Especially the Model 3, which has become the best-selling car in the States throughout 2024.

But that doesn’t mean every used Tesla is a bargain, and YouTube docu-series presenter Out of Spec reviews have now cleared up why many of these cars are becoming deceivingly cheap.

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New Tesla owner reveals hidden problems buying used cars for less than $25k

Netting a used Tesla Model 3 for less than $25k used to mean that you’d end up with a wealth of unwanted problems.

However, recent changes to tax credits on EVs have meant dealers have been dropping these cars to a usual price of around $24,999.

That’s because, according to Out of Spec Reviews, dealers are supposed to offer $4,000 of credit to new EV buyers under the $25k mark, and therefore lower the prices before sending off an expensive bill.

So, it’s worth bearing in mind that the cars are being valued at $4k higher than they should be.

Still, this car fanatic found a white Tesla Model 3 Performance at a dealer in Utah, where his friend would be buying their first-ever electric car.

This car had evidence of inflated prices, as an undisclosed front bumper dent was visible.

They also found an issue with the AC and coolant levels, although this was a quick fix.

The car had only lost 9% on its maximum range, and aside from the aforementioned problems, they were happy with the purchase. This is only after a $500 haircut.

So, with a huge trip home, how did it hold up?

How did the Tesla Model 3 perform on its Salt Lake City, Utah road trip?

Many people have already put the Tesla Model 3 to the test on road trips, such as this UK trio who crossed Wales to compare it to the BYD Seal and Volkswagen ID.7.

This used Model 3 was already facing some difficulties with its AC, and the YouTuber was determined to see if there were any hidden faults under the motor.

However, having bought the car from the Salt Lake City dealership, he traveled back from Fort Collins, Colorado, and put it to the test in a 450+ mile drive.

Despite some original concerns, and a clear grudge about charging times having never owned an EV before, the new Model 3 owner found that the car was almost flawless.

The user also revealed at the end of the video that they’d already saved around $200 on gas having spent a week with the Tesla and traveling for work.

So, if you can be savvy with the sale, there’s a lot to like from a used Tesla Model 3.

Others have found that these cars can be almost evergreen, performing excellently despite racking up over 140,000 miles.