Used prices for the Tesla Model 3 have reached record lows in 2026, with some 2019 models available for under $19,000. This depreciation comes amid broader shifts in the electric vehicle market following the end of federal tax credits. While Tesla models generally saw price increases, older Model 3s present affordable options for buyers.
The Tesla Model 3, one of the best-selling electric vehicles in the United States, has seen its used prices plummet in 2026. Listings on CarMax include a 2019 Model 3 Standard Range for $18,998 with 73,000 miles, and three such models at that price. Several newer models with lower mileage are also listed under $20,000 before fees. Carvana offers many used Model 3s below $20,000 prior to shipping costs. According to Kelley Blue Book, a 2019 Model 3 Standard Range with average mileage has a fair purchase price of $17,590 and a typical listing price of $19,240. The original MSRP for the 2019 model was around $36,200, representing depreciation of up to $17,202.
These low prices align with market pressures from the end of federal EV incentives. The used EV tax credit, offering up to $4,000, expired on September 30, 2025. A study by iSeeCars.com, analyzing over 1.7 million used cars from September 2025 to January 2026, found average used Tesla prices rose 4.3%, while prices for nearly all other used EVs fell 3.6%. For instance, the Ford Mustang Mach-E dropped 5.1% to $29,014, and the Hyundai Kona Electric declined 6.4% to $19,678. However, specific older Model 3 listings contradict the overall Tesla trend, possibly due to high mileage and battery degradation.
Karl Brauer, executive analyst at iSeeCars, attributed Tesla's resilience to strong demand from a loyal fan base. "Even after the past year’s political turbulence, there remains a large, loyal Tesla fan base in the new and used car world," Brauer said. He noted non-Tesla EVs require lower prices to attract buyers without the tax credit, as they appeal more to price-sensitive consumers.
The 2019 Model 3 Standard Range offers 271 horsepower, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, with an original range of 220 miles, potentially reduced by battery degradation. Standard features include a 15-inch infotainment system, moonroof, heated mirrors, parking sensors, pre-collision safety, tire pressure monitoring, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes. Edmunds describes the 2019 interior as having a "minimalistic design that feels chic, modern and upscale."
Prospective buyers should plan for charging, given infrastructure limitations. Key questions include charging location, costs, public access, and home charger installation. Brauer advised considering non-Tesla EVs for value, noting a wave of lease returns from 2023-2025 could further lower used EV prices. All EV batteries carry an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
