If you’re hunting for a 2016 Tesla Model S for sale, you’re looking at one of the most influential electric cars of the last decade, now at a fraction of its original $70,000–$130,000+ MSRP. In 2025, these cars sit in a sweet spot: modern enough to feel like a current EV, old enough to be genuinely affordable if you shop carefully and understand what you’re buying.
Quick take
A well‑maintained 2016 Model S can deliver long range, supercar‑level acceleration on some trims, and a still-futuristic cabin. But condition, battery health, and warranty status matter far more than the odometer alone, especially on a nearly 10‑year‑old EV.
Why consider a 2016 Tesla Model S now?
2016 Tesla Model S at a glance
When it launched, the Model S redefined what an electric car could be: fast, sleek, and able to travel well over 200 miles on a charge. A 2016 example still offers:
- Real long-distance range compared with many similarly priced used EVs.
- Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network (on compatible cars) for road trips and quick top-ups.
- Over‑the‑air software features like navigation, entertainment apps, and sometimes Autopilot, depending on how the original owner specced the car.
Shopping tip
With used Tesla prices softening across the market, you can often negotiate more on a 2016 Model S today than just a couple of years ago. Focus your leverage on battery health, cosmetic wear, and incomplete service records.
2016 Tesla Model S trims, range and key specs
Tesla didn’t make shopping this car simple, there were many battery sizes and drivetrain options in 2016. Knowing which one you’re looking at will help you value the car correctly.
Major 2016 Tesla Model S trims and EPA range
Approximate EPA-rated ranges and performance figures for the most common 2016 Model S variants. Actual used-vehicle range depends heavily on battery health and climate.
| Trim | Drivetrain | Battery (kWh) | EPA range (mi) | 0–60 mph (sec) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 / 60D | RWD / AWD | 60 | ~210–218 | ~5.5–5.8 | Entry battery, more budget‑friendly, some were software‑locked 75 kWh packs |
| 70 / 70D | RWD / AWD | 70 | ~230–240 | ~5.4–5.6 | Early‑year trims; some replaced by 75/75D mid‑2016 |
| 75 / 75D | RWD / AWD | 75 | ~249–259 | ~5.2–5.4 | Popular balance of price and range for daily use |
| 85 / 85D | RWD / AWD | 85 | ~260 | ~5.2 | Older battery tech; more age and miles by now |
| 90D | AWD | 90 | ~294 | ~4.2 | Range champ for 2016, strong all‑weather performance |
| P90D | AWD | 90 | ~270 | ~3.1 (quicker w/ Ludicrous) | High‑performance trim; tire and suspension wear can be higher |
Key 2016 Model S trims you’ll most commonly see for sale in 2025.
You’ll also see equipment differences that matter for daily life and resale value:
- Autopilot hardware: Most 2016 cars have first‑generation Autopilot hardware; later‑year builds may have the updated design with revised nose and interior options.
- Onboard charger: 2016 models moved to a 48‑amp onboard charger option, improving Level 2 home charging speeds compared with earlier cars.
- Interior options: Premium audio, upgraded seats, glass roof and HEPA “Bioweapon Defense Mode” filtration were available on certain builds.
What does a 2016 Tesla Model S cost in 2025?
As of late 2025, U.S. listing data for a 2016 Tesla Model S for sale typically shows asking prices roughly in the mid‑teens to mid‑$20,000s, depending on trim, mileage and condition. Broadly speaking:
Typical 2016 Model S price bands (U.S. market)
Actual values vary by mileage, options, battery health and accident history.
Value end
~$13,000–$16,000
- Higher Mileage (120k+ miles)
- Smaller packs (60/70/75)
- Cosmetic wear or accident history
Mainstream range
~$16,000–$21,000
- Moderate mileage (70k–120k)
- 75D, 85D, some 90D cars
- Clean Carfax, good service history
Top of market
~$21,000–$25,000+
- Low mileage for age
- Performance trims (P90D, P100D)
- Excellent condition, desirable options
Watch the options, not just price
Two 2016 Model S cars priced within $1,000 of each other can be very different in value. A lower‑mileage 75D with healthy battery and Autopilot can be a smarter buy than a tired P90D with unknown battery history, even if the performance trim looks more exciting on paper.
Battery warranty and real-world health
Battery condition is the single most important factor when buying any used EV, and that goes double for a 2016 Model S that’s closing in on a decade on the road.
- Originally, Tesla covered the Model S battery and drive unit for 8 years and, for many early cars, effectively unlimited miles, later evolving to an 8‑year/150,000‑mile standard with a 70% capacity retention guarantee.
- A 2016 Model S has now reached or is very close to the end of its original high‑voltage warranty window, depending on in‑service date.
- Most cars will still deliver very usable range, but capacity loss of 10–20% (sometimes more) is not unusual on older, high‑mileage packs.
Why Recharged’s battery report matters
Every vehicle sold through Recharged includes a Recharged Score battery health diagnostic. Instead of guessing from age and mileage, you see verified data on usable capacity, charging history indicators and how the pack compares to similar cars.
Questions to ask about battery health
- What’s the indicated full-charge range at 100%?
- Has the car been fast‑charged heavily (Superchargers) or mostly on Level 2?
- Any history of battery or drive‑unit replacement under warranty?
- Does the seller provide charging logs or service records?
Healthy vs. questionable pack
- A healthy 75D might still show ~230+ miles at 100% in mild weather.
- If a 90D is showing well under 220 miles at 100%, dig deeper and price accordingly.
- Sudden, uneven drops in displayed range can indicate software limits or past issues.
Numbers are illustrative; always rely on a current diagnostic report for the car you’re evaluating.
Common 2016 Model S issues to watch for
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No used car is perfect, and the 2016 Model S has a few patterns seasoned shoppers keep an eye on. Not every car will have these issues, but they’re common enough that you’ll want to ask about them, and factor them into your offer.
Typical 2016 Model S trouble spots
Use this to frame your questions and inspection plan.
Suspension & fore links
2015–2017 Model S cars have been scrutinized for front suspension fore link failures. Many incidents happen at low speeds (driveways/parking lots), but you’ll still want a shop to inspect for play, noise, or prior repairs.
Door handles
Power‑presenting door handles look great but contain motors and micro‑switches that can fail. Sticking, non‑presenting, or intermittently working handles are common and can be repaired, but not free.
MCU / screen issues
Some older Teslas experienced main screen (MCU) slowdowns or failures, often tied to memory wear. Many have been updated, but if the screen reboots frequently or is laggy, budget for repair or replacement.
Always pull a history report
Before you get attached to any 2016 Model S, run a full history report and verify the VIN against recalls and major repairs. A silent history around front suspension work, after nearly a decade on the road, deserves a closer physical inspection.
Used 2016 Model S inspection checklist
If you’re serious about a particular car, a structured inspection will save you money and surprises. Use this checklist yourself and, ideally, have an EV‑savvy shop or marketplace partner back it up with a professional evaluation.
Step-by-step checklist before you buy
1. Confirm trim, battery and options
Photograph the car’s main touchscreen “About” page. Confirm trim (e.g., 75D vs 90D), battery size, Autopilot/FSD status, premium audio, and other options the seller is claiming.
2. Review battery health data
Ask for a recent 100% charge screenshot and, ideally, a professional battery report. Compare indicated full-charge range to original EPA figures and age‑appropriate expectations.
3. Inspect suspension and tires
Look for uneven tire wear, clunks over bumps, or steering looseness. On performance trims like P90D, aggressive driving can accelerate suspension and tire wear.
4. Test every door handle and window
Open and close all doors multiple times. Check for handles that fail to present, stick, or don’t latch cleanly. Try windows and the hatch to confirm smooth operation.
5. Check infotainment & connectivity
Run navigation, audio, Bluetooth, and backing camera. Make sure the screen doesn’t lag, freeze, or reboot under normal use. Verify whether premium connectivity is active or requires a subscription.
6. Verify charging behavior
If possible, plug into both Level 2 and (for eligible cars) a Supercharger. Confirm the car charges as expected, with reasonable speeds and no error messages.
What Recharged adds
Every used EV on Recharged comes with a Recharged Score Report that covers battery health, fair‑market pricing, and a detailed condition rundown. That gives you leverage to compare multiple 2016 Model S listings, without crawling under every car yourself.
Charging and day-to-day ownership
Even as a 2016 vehicle, the Model S still offers a very usable charging and ownership experience, especially if your daily commute is moderate and you have access to home charging.
Home charging
- With a 240V Level 2 charger and the 48‑amp onboard charger, a Model S can add roughly 25–35 miles of range per hour, depending on trim.
- Most owners simply plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery, charging to 80–90% daily for longevity.
- If you’re installing a new home circuit, consider a professional electrician and check out our home EV charger installation guide.
On the road
- Most 2016 Model S cars have Supercharging capability, enabling rapid DC fast charging on road trips.
- Newer non‑Tesla EVs are gaining access to Superchargers, but the Model S still enjoys one of the broadest fast‑charging networks.
- For day‑to‑day errands, a 75 kWh or 90 kWh pack is often overkill, which helps offset some natural battery degradation.
Range planning for an older EV
When budgeting range, don’t plan trips off the original EPA numbers alone. Take what you see at 80–90% charge today, subtract a buffer for weather and speed, and build your route around that more conservative figure.
How Recharged helps you shop a 2016 Model S
The 2016 Model S sits right at the intersection of opportunity and risk in today’s used‑EV market. You can find a lot of car for the money, but only if you have clear data and support. That’s where Recharged comes in.
Why shop your 2016 Model S through Recharged
More than a listing site, we’re a used‑EV platform built around battery health and transparency.
Recharged Score battery diagnostics
Every car comes with a Recharged Score Report that includes verified battery health, so you’re not guessing how much range your 2016 Model S really has left.
Fair market pricing & financing
We benchmark listings against the broader used‑EV market and offer financing options designed for EV buyers, including pre‑qualification with no impact to your credit.
Trade-in & delivery
Have an ICE car or older EV to move on from? Use our trade‑in or consignment options, then get your next Tesla delivered nationwide or visit our Richmond, VA Experience Center.
Leverage the data when negotiating
If you’re comparing a 2016 Model S on Recharged with a private‑party car, use the presence of a third‑party battery report, transparent pricing, and expert EV guidance as your benchmark. The cheapest listing isn’t always the best value once you factor in battery risk and potential repairs.
2016 Tesla Model S for sale: FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Bottom line: Is a 2016 Tesla Model S a good buy?
A smartly chosen 2016 Tesla Model S is still a lot of car in 2025: quick, comfortable, and capable of long‑distance electric travel that many similarly priced EVs can’t match. The key is to treat each car as a unique case study in battery health, maintenance, and prior use, not just a trim name and odometer reading.
If you prioritize verified battery data, a clear history report, and a thorough inspection, a 2016 Model S can be a compelling, budget‑friendly entry point into Tesla ownership. Platforms like Recharged add another layer of protection, with diagnostic‑driven Recharged Scores, transparent pricing, EV‑specialist support, trade‑in options, and nationwide delivery to make the process smoother from first search to final signature.
