10/08/2026 7:36 pm
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Im looking to pull the trigger on a used Tesla Model 3 Performance by the end of the month, but the market is all over the place right now. I have a firm budget of 30k, maybe 32k if I find one with really low miles or the upgraded wheels. Im currently torn between a 2021 model with about 45k miles that a private seller has listed near me in Austin, and a 2020 one from a dealer that looks cleaner but has almost 60k miles.
My commute is pretty long so I really need something reliable, and I keep hearing mixed things about the battery health on these early performance trims. I dont want to overpay since prices seem to be dropping every time I check the apps, but I also dont want to miss out on a good deal while waiting for the perfect one. Are prices actually stabilizing or should I just keep waiting for them to dip further? What is the actual going rate for a decent Model 3 Performance these days because the listings online are all over the place?
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12
10/08/2026 8:20 pm
To add to the point above: 30k for a performance trim is definitely doable if you look at private party sales, but watch the suspension on those earlier 2020/2021 builds. If you end up grabbing one with some wear, you might want to look into an Autel MaxiAP AP200 Bluetooth OBDII Scanner just to get a real handle on the cell voltage deviations before you pull the trigger. Prices are definitely soft right now. If you're commuting a ton, reliability is key, so consider these maintenance items:
- Inspect the control arms for play, common issue on these.
- Check if the 12V battery has been swapped for a Ohmmu Group 51R 12V Lithium Battery, those stock ones die out of nowhere.
- Factor in a potential alignment if you put on new rubber. Basically, don't rush it. The market isn't spiking, so be patient and find one that's been cared for.
11
10/08/2026 8:00 pm
Picked up my Tesla Model 3 Performance AWD last year! Prices fluctuate crazy, but check the tires. Save cash for a Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 235/35R20 set, you will definitely need them!
3
10/08/2026 7:36 pm
Honestly 30k is tight for a solid Tesla Model 3 Performance. Be careful with high mileage units, maybe check for battery degradation using a ScanMyTesla OBDII Adapter before buying.