Type “Used Tesla For sale” into your browser and you’ll get a sea of listings. But is snapping up a pre-owned Tesla actually a smart move right now or just another entry in your “I swear this time my purchase is smarter than my last impulse buy” list? Here’s the real scoop: buying a used Tesla today isn’t just a clever move; it can be surprisingly practical with added perks that you might not expect.

Let’s talk dollars and sense first. The biggest carrot dangling here is price. New Teslas cost a pretty penny — a brand-new Model 3 starts around $40,000, but the moment it leaves the dealership, depreciation kicks in. Used options? You dodge that initial hit to the wallet. It’s not just about upfront cost, either. Since electric vehicles (EVs) are built differently than their gasoline cousins, used EVs often see less wear and tear mechanically. Teslas, in particular, have fewer moving parts. No spark plugs, fuel filters, or oil changes. That’s fewer trips to the mechanic and more time cruising.

Next up, you get access to those snazzy features that Tesla packs into each car. Autopilot, expansive touchscreens, dog mode — these aren’t reserved only for the latest models. It’s almost like finding last year’s iPhone for half off, but it still runs the latest iOS.

Worried about battery health? Recent data from Recurrent shows most Tesla batteries retain over 80% of their original capacity after 200,000 miles. That’s serious longevity. Plus, if you’re buying one with some warranty left, many powertrain and battery warranties last for up to eight years, which means extra peace of mind. Check, though—warranty terms sometimes change, so verify before you sign.

Another benefit: skipping the waitlist. New Teslas can come with lead times that stretch months. Buy used and you might drive off in days, not seasons. That’s real convenience for those who don’t like waiting for anything, not even next-day shipping.