Talia has been a professional writer since 2018. She got her start at The Nerd Stash, covering consumer technology and entertainment.
If you are in the market for a new car and considering a Tesla, you should consider spending the extra money on a new model rather than getting a used one. That is because, according to a December 2025 report from, Tesla ranks last among 26 brands for used-vehicle reliability.
It has a Reliability Verdict score of 31 out of 100, just barely below Jeep with 32. Lexus is at the top of the list, followed by Toyota in second place. Tesla is a major manufacturer in the electric vehicle market, and EVs can be an attractive option not just for their climate friendliness but also because, in the long run, they are. Though Tesla seeks to revolutionize the EV market, the market itself is relatively young, so perhaps this new technology can be attributed to its long-term problems. Consumer Reports notes that this report looks at cars that are typically five to ten years old. It also emphasizes that reliability can vary across models, so a certain used Tesla model may perform better than another. Still, overall, this is a grim report for Tesla and for potential Tesla owners who prefer buying used over new.The batteries in used Teslas can wear out over time, decreasing the vehicle's range. Tesla does offer battery warranties, but if the used Tesla is older than the warranty, you will need to anticipate needing to charge it more often. Thein the past, resulting in vehicle crashes and a large-scale recall. If you are buying a used Tesla, it may be running on an older autopilot system pre-recall, so you should ensure it is up to date for safety. Tesla's touchscreens have also been known to freeze and malfunction, leading to another recall. A faulty heat pump is another issue that can be very problematic during the winter. Another Tesla recall was issued because vehicle doors opened during a crash due to a malfunction. There are also issues with the suspension going out and general fit and finish problems with the exterior of the vehicle. Most of Tesla's issues stem from software problems. If you are buying a used one, it's important to know what software updates it has or that you might have access to. Taking your Tesla to a repair shop for a diagnostic can go a long way toward ensuring it functions correctly and is safe to drive.discussing the report overall seemed in agreement with these findings. One comment stated,"Had my Tesla for 3 months. New when purchased. Now on third trip to the service center. Had prior car a Volvo for 8 years, one service trip.", posts on the group's page had angry customers who claimed they had no issues or minimal issues. However, their vehicles were only a few years old and not ones surveyed for Consumer Reports. One Tesla owner ironically posted,"In five years, I've only had it in the shop three times. The computer went out on the second day. I replaced the control arms at three years , and the main battery had to be replaced at year five under warranty. Otherwise, no issues." No issues, indeed. When purchasing a used car, there is always the risk that it won't work as well as a new car. However, Tesla has a long way to go before its used vehicles are considered reliable. As EV technology continues to improve, we can hope that used-car reliability improves as well. Perhaps a future Consumer Reports on used cars will place Tesla higher on the list.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
'Build Quality': EV Enthusiast Asks Why Teslas Aren't Respected Compared To Other Electric Vehicle BrandsThe Tesla Model S can outrun supercars and travel hundreds of miles on a charge, yet in online EV culture, it’s often dismissed as 'mid.'
Read more »
The Big Picture: Is a CFP First-Round Bye Actually a Disadvantage?In two years of the 12-team College Football Playoff, teams with first-round byes are 1-7.
Read more »
Infamously Bad TV Series Finale Episodes That Are Actually GoodThese famously hated TV episodes deserve another shot.
Read more »
How to set goals that actually boost well-being.Stop setting resolutions that stress you out! Discover how to set goals that boost your happiness, create lasting habits, and let you live a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Read more »
21 New Year's Deals Actually Worth Buying from Amazon's Winter SaleShop the 21 best Amazon New Year’s Sale finds, from viral sweatpant jeans and cozy knits to designer bags — starting at just $9.
Read more »
Unbeaten Nebraska actually wants fans to stop storming courtNebraska players sent message to the home fans after their win Friday over No. 9 Michigan State: Thanks for the support, but quit storming the court.
Read more »