A used Tesla doesn’t need an oil check, but it still has tires, suspension, brakes, a body and a lot of electronics—and repairs aren’t cheap. I inspect it where it sits and tell you what I find in plain English.
Modern inspection $299 (2006 and newer) · Luxury & Exotic $349 (luxury & exotic models) · Classic inspection $399 (2005 and older) · The booking form picks the right one for you
What I pay close attention to on a Tesla
Body repairs and panel gaps
I measure paint thickness on every panel and check panel gaps, which can reveal earlier body repairs on these mostly aluminum cars.
Tire wear
Teslas are heavy and quick, and they can wear tires fast and unevenly. I measure tread on every tire and note uneven wear that can point to alignment trouble.
Suspension clunks
On the road test I listen for clunks and knocks from the suspension and control arms, and I check the steering for play.
Charging
I look over the charge port and cable, and when charging can be demonstrated, I confirm it works.
Screens, cameras and features
I check the touchscreen, cameras, door handles, windows and driver-assist warnings, and scan the systems where supported.
Battery information—what it is and isn’t
I record the displayed range and any battery warnings. I don’t perform a battery capacity test, and the report says so clearly.
Tesla models I inspect
- Model 3
- Model Y
- Model S
- Model X
Gas, diesel, hybrid and electric are all welcome. The powertrain doesn’t change the price.
What every inspection includes
- 146-point hands-on inspection by an ASE-Certified Master Technician—the person you book is the person who shows up
- Computer scan of the engine, transmission, ABS, airbag and other systems, with every code explained
- Paint meter readings on every body panel to spot earlier bodywork
- Tread depth on every tire, plus brakes checked through the wheels
- A road test of at least five miles when it’s safe and the seller allows it
- 40+ photos, a plain-English report and a phone walkthrough with Antone
Nothing is taken apart. The inspection is a condition snapshot, not a warranty or a guarantee against future problems.
Inspecting another make? Subaru · Toyota & Tacoma · Audi · BMW · Porsche · Jeep · All makes · Service area