Seems like the magic bullet is finding a private sale of a CPO Tesla purchased recently under the previous program. That way you get remaining warranty, and the benefit of the car having been reconditioned.
Tesla is spinning the change as beneficial for customers by reducing the time it takes for delivery - but it's hard to believe that it was a major pain point. I suspect that this is all about reducing the capital needed to recondition the vehicles as they work towards profitability.
Light scratches and rock chips are normal wear and tear - but dents, gouges, and ripped interiors are things even mom and pop dealers would repair before putting vehicles on the market, let alone a manufacturer marketing their own CPO vehicles. They should find a compromise, and conduct basic reconditioning for major paint flaws and body work, but not go as far as in the past such as replacing seats, etc. to make the car like-new.
I'm starting to question whether I'll end up buying CPO at all, unless I get super lucky and find the rare combination of price, options, and condition. It doesn't help that Tesla can't sell in CT and I'd need to take delivery in NY or MA.
If a private sale is too cumbersome, there are a lot of Model S vehicles out there at reputable dealers, with whom you can negotiate lower prices and better trade values. Many of these Teslas still have a remainder on the factory warranty, in addition to the original drivetrain warranty.
I've seen many owners here not purchase the ESA at 50K miles, so buying used from a dealer would be no different under the right age/mileage. Unfortunately, it may also be the better buying experience based on the feedback being reported.
