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Best Tesla Model X Years to Buy Used

Used Tesla Model X Quick Facts 

  • We like the 2021 and newer models for several reasons.
  • The Tesla Model X SUV, based on the Model S platform, debuted in 2016. Its unique rear “Falcon-Wing” doors add a cool factor.
  • Buying a used Model X directly from Tesla that has exceeded its factory warranty includes a 1-year/10,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

 
When it comes to buying a unique used SUV, the Model X has plenty of qualifications. Its electric powertrain makes it a clean, green machine capable of carrying up to seven passengers over 300 miles on a single charge. Its unconventional “Falcon Wing” rear doors offer cargo van-like accessibility and feature a clever center hinge that allows them to open even when parking in tight or confining spaces. A used Model X will save you money, and because Tesla can accomplish so many of its improvements using over-the-air updates, even a 4- or 5-year-old SUV can feel like a new model. The Model X appeals to those who like Tesla’s minimalist approach to luxury and practical interior design. It is, however, still considered a luxury SUV, so don’t expect to find Chevy Bolt-like deals out there. Remember that Tesla doesn’t follow the conventional formula for building cars, constantly making changes and updates throughout the model year. This practice can make pinpointing the exact difference between model years difficult.

What Is the Best Model-Year Used Tesla Model X? 

2019 Tesla model X in white

We like the 2021 and newer models for several reasons. First, 2021 saw a significant refresh, improving the car’s styling and features. A late-model Model X will have a better battery pack with greater range, more features, faster processors, and better build quality. These years also include the Plaid series, delivering maximum performance capabilities.

The sweet spot for features, technology, and price is probably a 2022 or 2023 Model X Long Range, which provides about 340 miles of range. The standard configuration seats five, while the 3-row models offer the option of second-row buckets or bench seating, making room for six or seven passengers. The 3-row Model X also features dual air conditioning units for the front and rear passengers, a feature lacking in the 2-row model.

Tesla builds several variations of the Model X, with early model years using a number to denote their battery size in kilowatt-hours (75D, 90D, 100D, and P100D). Early Model X cars produced from September 2015 through January 15, 2017, include free unlimited Supercharging for the life of the vehicle, not just the original owner. We point this out because finding one of these Model X SUVs allows the policy to carry over to the next buyer.

There’s a bit of a catch, though. Early models traded into Tesla may have this feature wiped from their system before being resold, meaning it’s better to buy a used Model X directly from the original owner, who can verify whether the free Supercharging is still in place. Beyond the chance of lifetime free charging and a lower price, we don’t think the early-year Model X makes a great used car choice. It has more than its fair share of hiccups, including issues with the Falcon wing doors, lagging MCU (Media Control Unit) operation, and limited range. You’ll also face the possibility of rapid battery degradation, which the warranty doesn’t cover beyond 70% capacity.

See Tesla Model X cars for sale near you.

Tesla Model X Trim Levels Over the Years: Which Should You Buy?

As of 2025, the Model X remains in its first generation. The Model X features dual electric motors providing standard all-wheel drive (AWD). It also offers various battery packs that increase its range and performance. Standard equipment includes power Falcon Wing doors, power-folding heated side mirrors, LED headlights, keyless entry, a power tailgate, and 20-inch wheels. The cabin features heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a swiveling 17-inch touchscreen, and a 17-speaker audio system.

Tesla’s Autopilot driver-assist suite of driver assistance bundles automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control.

Optional upgrades vary by year and include an adaptive air suspension, automatic parking assist, and Smart Summon, which allows the Model X to leave its parking space and come to you. There’s also the promise of Level 3 autonomous driving, a feature many owners paid for, but it has yet to be incorporated into the Model X via an over-the-air update.

Over the years, the Model X’s features and options have changed, sometimes midyear, which can make shopping for the used market a bit more research-intensive. To help with your search, we’ve broken down each model year, the trims offered, and the features included.

Model-Year Changes:

2025: The 2025 Model X carries over with no significant changes. It comes in Long Range and Plaid trims. The base Model X can travel up to 335 miles on a charge and accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds. The Plaid increases power and speed, reaching 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds but with a reduced range of 326 miles (300 when equipped with 22-inch wheels).
2024: The Yoke steering wheel is replaced by a traditional-style wheel, but it remains an option.
2023: No significant changes.
2022: The 2022 Model X carries over unchanged.
2021: The Model X gets a refresh, with crisper exterior styling and more interior updates, including a redesigned touchscreen and an F1 yoke-style steering wheel. A simplified trim lineup includes Long Range and Plaid.
2020: Changes made in the September 2019 model run carry over into 2020. They include a new Long Range Plus model with a slightly longer range, Smart Summon added to the software Version 10 update, faster charging capabilities, and a standard adaptive air suspension.
2019: Tesla replaces its old model designation language with new names: Standard, Long Range, and Performance.
2018: Tesla drops the 90D all-wheel-drive model and ventilated seats but adds a split-folding second-row seat on seven-passenger models. An improved MCU2 is released.
2017: A new 100-kWh battery provides a new ludicrous mode. Other changes include a standard adaptive air suspension, the deletion of the 60D trim, and the removal of Unlimited Free Supercharger privileges.
2016: The Model X launches. The range for the 75D model is up to 238 miles, while the 90D covers 257 miles and the P100D 289 miles.

See 2016-to-current Tesla Model X cars for sale near you.

A Word About Range

The range figures quoted by the manufacturer are EPA estimates based on ideal driving conditions. Factors affecting range include aggressive accelerator pedal use and outdoor temperatures, which can affect battery life, especially extreme cold or heat. In cold weather, preconditioning the battery helps minimize power loss and won’t drain the battery so long as the vehicle is plugged into a charger. Charging times can be drastically slowed if you don’t precondition the battery pack. Similarly, driving in extreme heat (temperatures over 95 degrees Fahrenheit) consumes more power to keep the battery cool. Batteries near or at the maximum temperature limits may shut down charging for safety reasons.

RELATED: EV Battery Maintenance Guide

Things To Consider When Buying a Used Tesla Model X

Battery Life 

After 2020, the Model X battery warranty lasts for eight years or 150,000 miles and promises to retain 70% battery capacity. Before 2020, the warranty was eight years and unlimited mileage. Buying a used Model X directly from Tesla that has exceeded its factory warranty includes a 1-year/10,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Most EV batteries have the potential to last 10 years without much change to charging times or capacity. After a decade, degradation is inevitable, but at what rate is uncertain. Should the battery fail, you’re looking at about $10,000 to $15,000 to replace the packs, which Tesla tends to remanufacture rather than replace. Late-model 2022 and newer Model X SUVs have built-in software to test the battery’s health. 

Storage and Charging

The ideal location to store your Model X is a garage or covered carport. Both are perfect spots for the Tesla home charging unit you’ll want to buy. The average cost of a Level 2 home charger is around $500, but depending on your home’s electrical setup, installation can run anywhere from $400 to a few thousand dollars.

RELATED: Should I Charge My Electric Car Every Night?

Long-Term Ownership

Tesla designed the Model X’s drive unit and body to go a million miles. With proper care and maintenance, there’s no reason this figure isn’t doable. However, unlike most gas-powered SUVs, the Model X’s over-the-air updates allow Tesla to resolve many issues with a simple software update.

Does the Model X Hold Its Value?

The Model X has no exceptional resale history, but the same can be said for many luxury cars. Current market conditions vary wildly due to gas prices, used EV demand, and geopolitical considerations.  

How Long Does a Tesla Model X Take to Charge?

Using a Level 2 Tesla home charger, the Model X takes five to seven hours (depending on battery size and model year) to reach a full charge. When using a Tesla Supercharger, expect a 10%-80% charge in up to 30 minutes. Factors such as outside temperature, charging station output, and battery condition may affect these times.

Tesla Model X Years to Avoid 

The 2016 models have some electrical gremlins and Falcon Wing Door issues, including chipped paint around the edges and hydraulic oil leaks. The 2017 and 2018 models use older drive units and software and still suffer from some of the build quality issues found on the 2016 cars. Plus, an older Model X’s aging batteries may have less time before they begin to fail or need replacing.

See Tesla Model X cars for sale near you.

MORE: Best Tesla Model 3 Years to Buy Used, Best Tesla Model Y Years to Buy Used, and Best Tesla Years to Buy Used

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