Used Tesla Cybertruck Buying Guide: What to Check in 2025

Used Tesla Cybertruck Buying Guide: What to Watch Out For

The Tesla Cybertruck is arguably the most polarizing pickup on the road—futuristic, angular, and unapologetically electric. But in 2025, with more early units hitting the second-hand market, buying a used Cybertruck isn’t just about flexing style—it’s about avoiding expensive mistakes.

If you’re considering purchasing a pre-owned Cybertruck, here’s what you absolutely need to know—straight from current owners, updated dealership practices, and industry insiders.

1. FSD Transfer: Don’t Assume It’s Included

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software remains one of the most misunderstood features in used Tesla purchases.

FSD Is Tied to the Vehicle—But Not Always Transferable: As of mid-2025, Tesla may allow FSD to transfer under limited-time promotions or in specific trade-in cases, but for most private sales, FSD does not carry over automatically.
How to Confirm: Use the in-vehicle screen to check if FSD is listed under software features. You can also verify through the Tesla app once the vehicle is linked to your account.
Watch Out: Some sellers falsely claim FSD is included just because it was installed. Always double-check before finalizing payment.

✅ Tip: Ask the seller to show the screen under “Additional Vehicle Information” while logged into the Tesla UI or request a screenshot.

2. Battery Health: Don’t Just Rely on Range

Cybertruck’s battery packs are built to last, but used units—especially those used for towing or long-distance hauling—can suffer from thermal wear or DC fast charging abuse.

Ask for Battery Degradation Reports: Sellers can request a battery health check at Tesla service centers. If not available, compare real-world range at 100% SOC (State of Charge) to the original EPA estimate.
Pay Attention to Charging History: Frequent use of Superchargers (DCFC) can degrade cells faster, especially if not spaced out properly.

⚠️ Warning: A 10-15% range drop is common by year 3—but more than that should trigger closer inspection.

3. Suspension & Undercarriage Damage: Cybertruck Is Heavy

With a curb weight around 6,800–7,100 lbs (depending on variant), suspension wear is a real concern—especially on early models that may have tackled off-road terrains.

Check Air Suspension Components: Listen for noises during auto-leveling and test the height adjust function.
Inspect for Off-Road Damage: The armored steel exoskeleton may survive scratches, but the underbody, skid plates, and suspension arms are more vulnerable.

✅ Tip: Request the car be raised to its maximum suspension height during inspection—any slowness or failure could indicate leaks or compressor issues.

4. Software Lockouts: Beware of Removed Features

Some used Cybertrucks sold by third-party dealers or previously leased vehicles may have features disabled remotely by Tesla, especially if the vehicle was flagged during resale or auction.

Examples Include:
- FSD or Enhanced Autopilot locked out
- Towing package or premium connectivity disabled
- Free Supercharging removed (if previously included)

⚠️ Always confirm what’s actively enabled, not just what used to be included when new.

5. Check Recall and Service History

Cybertruck production ramped up fast in late 2024, and early units have already seen a few recalls and service bulletins—ranging from door handle malfunctions to front trunk latch issues.

Use Tesla VIN Recall Tool: https://www.tesla.com/vin-recall-search
Request Full Tesla Service Record: Tesla can provide this if requested by the current owner via app.

✅ Even minor issues like stuck tailgates or charging port misalignment can be red flags if not addressed.

6. Interior Wear: The Armor Outside Doesn’t Protect Inside

Cybertrucks aren’t luxury limos, but their interiors still have tech-heavy features that age differently than traditional trucks.

Check the Center Screen for ghost touches or delamination
Test All Cameras and Sensors, especially in corner modules
Verify Rear Seat Condition, especially if the truck was used commercially

7. Price Trends and Negotiation Tips

As of Q3 2025:

Used Dual Motor AWD Cybertrucks typically list between $74,000–$82,000 USD
Tri-Motor Cyberbeast Editions fetch $94,000–$105,000 USD
High-mileage early models (especially fleet or commercial units) can dip into the $60K–70K range

📉 Watch for sudden price dips—especially near new software updates or hardware changes from Tesla. A sudden drop may indicate an upcoming depreciation wave.

Final Checklist Before You Buy:

✅ Item	Why It Matters
FSD Confirmed Active?	Software is not always transferable
Battery Degradation Report	Long-term performance indicator
Suspension Fully Functional?	Cybertruck’s weight stresses suspension
No Feature Lockouts?	Some used vehicles lose key features
Recall/Service Records Checked?	Early units had minor manufacturing issues
Charging Port & Cameras Tested?	Expensive to replace if damaged
Transparent Usage History?	Towing/commercial use accelerates wear

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