Are there any used Tesla Model S Plaid units for sale?

Question

Ive been obsessing over finding a used Model S Plaid for weeks now and honestly it is giving me so much anxiety because the market seems like a total mess. I really need to get this sorted by the end of next month because my current daily driver is literally falling apart and Ive got a huge road trip planned from New Jersey down to Florida. I've been checking the Tesla official used inventory almost every hour and also looking at places like CarGurus but the pricing makes zero sense to me. I found one 2021 for 82k then another one with similar miles for 74k and I read online that the early 2021 builds had some weird issues with the interior trim or maybe the yoke peeling but then other people say the 2022s are the ones to avoid? Its so confusing. My budget is capped at 78k and Im terrified of accidentally buying a Long Range that some dealer mislabeled as a Plaid which Ive already seen happen twice this week. Are there actually any reliable places to find a used Plaid that hasnt been totally thrashed by the previous owner or am I just chasing a ghost here...

Danielzenly · Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, finding a clean Plaid under 78k is tough. I had issues with several units that were just not as good as expected quality-wise.

Tesla Model S Plaid 2021 usually has terrible trim alignment and those early yoke peeling issues.

Tesla Model S Plaid 2022 feels more solid but finding one for 78k that isnt high mileage is pretty rare. Most cheap ones are thrashed or mislabeled by random dealers.

ezivwhfwsl · Answer

> Im terrified of accidentally buying a Long Range that some dealer mislabeled as a Plaid which Ive already seen happen twice this week. Stumbled upon this discussion and wanted to share my experience. It is very common for third-party dealers to misidentify these cars. To verify a unit is a genuine Plaid, you should check the interior trim first. The Tesla Model S Plaid 2022 Carbon Fiber Trim is a standard feature you won't find on a base Long Range. Methodically checking the software tab on the center screen for the Plaid badge is the only foolproof way tho. I've been very satisfied with my Tesla Model S Plaid 2021 Tri-Motor despite the early production rumors. The performance is consistently incredible and the drivetrain works well for long trips. My tip is to look specifically for units with the red brake calipers, as many dealers forget to photograph the screen. If you find a clean Tesla Model S Plaid 2022 AWD, it usually fits your budget if it has over 30k miles.