Tesla Model 3 depreciation: when to buy & cost to own
Estimates as of June 2026.
The Tesla Model 3 (EV, ~$42,000 new) loses about 52% of its value in five years — it depreciates faster than the 41.8% market average. Buying at 3 years old and holding five costs about $2,025/yr in depreciation versus $4,368/yr buying new — you keep 53.6% more of your money.
Value by age
| Age | Est. value | Total lost |
|---|---|---|
| New | $42,000 | 0% |
| 1 yr | $31,799 | 24.3% |
| 2 yr | $27,841 | 33.7% |
| 3 yr | $24,848 | 40.8% |
| 5 yr | $20,160 | 52% |
| 7 yr | $16,392 | 61% |
| 10 yr | $11,686 | 72.2% |
What will it cost you to own?
Buy price (est.)
$24,848
Resale (est.)
$14,723
Total depreciation
$10,125
Cost per year
$2,025
vs. buying new
$4,368/yr
Depreciation only — older cars cost more to maintain, so the practical sweet spot is ~3–5 years old. Figures are modeled estimates that vary by trim, condition, and market. How we estimate this →