Used 2021 Tesla Model 3 for Sale nearSanta Barbara, CA

How much does the 2021 Tesla Model 3 cost?

Prices are up 5.48% year-over-year — a sign of continued demand for this model year.

There are 1,895 listings available, which suggests you have a meaningful amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 a good car?

Yes — owners rate it 4.6/5, which is a strong signal that you’re looking at a well-liked used EV. Owners consistently praise its impressive performance, outstanding range, and innovative technology, and they also highlight the smooth ride and advanced safety features. If you want a compact electric sedan that feels modern and easy to live with, this model fits that use case well. With 32.5% of listings marked as good or great deals, there’s still room to shop selectively.

Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 reliable?

Owners rate it 4.6/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The owner feedback points to minimal maintenance costs and a trouble-free ownership experience, along with praise for the car’s dependable everyday usability. That combination matters if you want an EV you can count on without the upkeep burden of a traditional gas car. For used buyers, the main long-term risk is making sure the specific car’s condition and history match its strong reputation.

What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Tesla Model 3?

At 71.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a full vehicle history report so you can separate clean examples from cars with prior damage. After that, prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for body condition, panel alignment, and signs of uneven wear. You should also focus on the cabin and cargo area, since some owners wish for more space and better back seat comfort.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Tesla Model 3?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop with some leverage if you’re patient.

• Deal availability: 32.5% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 1,895 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices are up 5.48% year-over-year.
• Clean inventory: 71.6% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $21,078, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2021 Tesla Model 3's resale value?

The current average of $23,672 sits slightly above last year's $22,442.

That upward move suggests the market still values this model year, which can help support resale strength if you buy well and keep the car in good condition. The combination of strong owner satisfaction and steady demand is a favorable setup for future sellers. If you maintain the car carefully and avoid accident history, you’re more likely to preserve value when it’s time to trade or sell.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.6/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2021 Tesla Model 3 or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2021 if:

• 32.5% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 71.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices are up 5.48% year-over-year.
• Owners rate it 4.6/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

The bottom line: The 2021 is a strong choice if you want the Model 3’s core strengths — performance, range, and tech — with a market that still shows solid demand. If you’re especially price-sensitive, it’s worth comparing nearby years to see whether a lower entry price outweighs the 2021’s balance of owner satisfaction and current market support.

How does the 2021 Tesla Model 3 compare to the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E?

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 10, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.