Buyer Receives Incorrect Tesla Model Y from Carvana, Negotiates for Model Y Performance at Lower Cost Instead

In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), one buyer's story serves as a case study of what used EV shopping looks like in 2025. Travis Anthony, a consumer, recently found himself at the centre of an unexpected turn of events when he purchased a Tesla Model Y.

Travis, initially planning to buy a Long-Range dual motor Model Y, found himself driving away with a Model Y Performance instead, all for less than what he originally paid. This unusual outcome is a stark reminder that the third-party ecosystem around EVs is still playing catch-up, with listings not always accurate and crucial details like software versions and battery health not disclosed as clearly as they should be.

In Travis's case, Carvana, a popular third-party platform, listed the standard range Model Y as a Long Range, either due to a mistake or a VIN decoding error. Upon discovering the discrepancy, Travis was faced with a frustrating situation, a common occurrence for many buyers who deal with long email threads and unclear responses.

However, Carvana admitted their mistake and delivered a better car—the Model Y Performance—at a lower cost to Travis. This isn't to say that mistakes don't happen even from big platforms, but with the right mindset and persistence, you can turn a frustrating situation into something better than expected.

The gap between performance trims and base models can sometimes be bigger than buyers realize. The Performance trim adds bigger brakes, lowered suspension, a carbon fiber spoiler, upgraded wheels, and a more aggressive dual motor tune. As a result, some drivers find the Performance trim drives like a completely different car compared to the standard Model Y, a fact that Travis can now attest to.

It's important for used EV buyers to verify the trim level and specs before purchasing a Tesla from a third-party site. Additionally, it's crucial to ask about charging habits, usage history, and whether the battery management system (BMS) is functioning properly.

While the Model Y Performance may offer a thrilling driving experience, it's not just about numbers. One owner discovered a stranger trying to open their Tesla door on video through Sentry Mode, a testament to the car's advanced security features. Moreover, Tesla's battery and powertrain warranties do still carry over even when the vehicle is resold outside of Tesla's ecosystem, providing peace of mind for used buyers.

In conclusion, Travis Anthony's story serves as a reminder to be vigilant when shopping for a used Tesla Model Y, especially when dealing with third-party platforms. Always double check the specs, ask the right questions, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself. After all, a little diligence can lead to an unexpected profit, as Travis's story demonstrates.

Buyer Receives Incorrect Tesla Model Y from Carvana, Negotiates for Model Y Performance at Lower Cost Instead