These are the batteries you need to make sure your used Tesla has if you're buying one
Published on Nov 26, 2025 at 4:10 AM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara
Last updated on Nov 25, 2025 at 9:12 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Keelin McNamara
These are the batteries that you need to make sure a used Tesla has if you’re buying one.
It is arguably the most important aspect of buying a used version of the EV.
Batteries are the very life source of Tesla.
And it can be an extremely costly mistake if they are wrong.
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Owning a used Tesla can be a great option
For many, a used Tesla Model 3 is one of the best used EVs you can buy.
In fact, it could be one of the best used cars available, period.
And there is good news for potential buyers.
Because used examples of these Teslas are very common on the second-hand market.
The model also has solid range and charging specs, and can be bought for under $20,000.
But you might be wondering what the deal is with the batteries.
Can they still perform as well when they are already used?
In general, the answer seems to be a pretty resounding ‘yes’.
Examples with well over 100,000 miles have been seen with plenty of battery life left.
Davide Giacobbe is the co-founder and CEO of Voltest, a battery health start-up.
He shared some fascinating numbers that back up the point.
He told Inside EVs that around 70 percent of the vehicles it tests have at least 80 percent of their battery health remaining.
Owning a Tesla with LFP-powered batteries can be beneficial
But there is one type of battery that is well worth looking out for.
Voltest’s data shows that you should consider finding a Model 3 with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack.
This battery pack is renowned for longevity, low cost, and the ability to be charged fully without damage.
So, how do you actually find a Tesla that comes with an LFP?
That tends to be a lot trickier, because Tesla cars aren’t advertised with LFP.
What is known is that Tesla switched to LFP battery packs in late 2021.
These were then discontinued in October of 2024.
So, if you want to buy a used Tesla, you really do have a lot of options.
But making sure your Tesla comes with an LFP could give you even more bang for your battery buck.
Keelin McNamara is a content writer at Supercar Blondie from Ireland, covering cars, technology, and lifestyle. Despite being a Law graduate, he discovered his passion for journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has worked in the industry ever since. Outside of work, he is an avid MotoGP fan, and is a self-confessed addict of the sport.
