Washington dealership sparks debate after revealing it’s selling 2017 Tesla Model S for just $20K

A Washington dealership has TikTok buzzing after showing off a 2017 Tesla Model S with a $20,000 price tag.

But the internet didn’t exactly break out the champagne. 

Many commenters are wondering, ‘What’s the catch?’

Because when a Tesla pops up with a bargain price, it’s hard not to wonder why.

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So why is this $20,000 Tesla stirring debate?

The debate began when a Washington dealership salesman posted to TikTok showing off the 2017 Tesla Model S 75D.

He then casually drops the price: $20,000 after applying a $4,000 federal EV rebate that’s ending this month.

On paper, it sounds like a steal. 

The car promises 259 miles of range, a 0-60 sprint in 4.2 seconds, a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and a digital touchscreen.

But the chorus of skeptics in the comments zeroed in on the fine print. 

The Model S carries an eight-year, 150,000-mile battery warranty. 

And on a 2017 model, that coverage is just about to expire. 

Once it’s out, owners are on their own. 

Replacement packs cost anywhere from $12,000 to $22,000. 

Third-party shops can sometimes repair a unit for $5,000-$6,000, but that’s still a fair chunk of change.

Add infotainment glitches – Tesla charges $2,000 to upgrade pre-2018 hardware – and nine recalls ranging from seat belts to steering, and suddenly the $20,000 bargain looks more like a gamble.

This is why Teslas are tanking in resale value

If the low sticker feels shocking, it’s part of a bigger pattern. 

A recent study found the Tesla Model S, X, and Y have lost more value than any other used cars over the last year. 

Why the collapse? Affordable competition. 

BYD and other EV makers are undercutting Tesla with cheaper ranges, pushing resale prices down even faster. 

Tesla’s answer is to split its lineup. 

The upcoming Model Q is pitched as an affordable entry point, while the S and X get nudged up into pure luxury territory with performance upgrades to justify the gap. 

But right now, the depreciation charts are brutal, and they explain why buyers are hesitant over a $20,000 Tesla Model S.

Would you buy this Tesla Model S for $20K? Take a look and decide for yourself over on the Legend Auto Sales TikTok.The post Washington dealership sparks debate after revealing it’s selling 2017 Tesla Model S for just $20K appeared first on Supercar Blondie.