2019 M3 to 2026 MY Trade In - Tesla vs. Carvana?

You would want to get FSD transferred before your traded to Carmax. Depending on your state, you may save sales tax by doing it in one transaction. If you wait for Carmax, Carmax may claim it is not in Very Good condition. For those prices, you can probably sell private party for higher.

Thank you. Edited post. Residence CA.

FWIW I’ve sold two cars in Carvana and was very pleased. Zero hassle process with a fair price offered. I’m funnily in a very similar boat to you. Will be selling my 2001 M3 for a new Y to transfer FSD. I want the performance, so I’m still holding out to see if they offer a deal in that trim level before I order.

Whatever you choose to do make sure you understand the Tesla FSD transfer requirements. https://www.tesla.com/support/fsd-transfer I purchased a 2026 Model Y Performance and transferred my FSD from my 2018 Model 3 Performance trade-in at the time of delivery - physically and in person. I considered the value of the FSD option to be important enough to not allow any room for a screw up. The entirety of the process transaction went very smoothly. It was an enjoyable vehicle purchase and trade-in experience.

Good to hear that about Carvana. I do see an option in the App to reject Tesla’s estimate. Looks like I can decide ahead of delivery whether to go for Tesla trade in or pay cash. Hope you get a good deal. If financing try not to let go 0.99 %.

Good to hear your experience. Thank you for sharing the link.

Yeah the experience was truly low stress. Also, I needed to do it that way because my delivery was 100 miles away and I didn't want to burden anyone by asking for a ride. And I didn't want to chance a screw up with the FSD transfer.

I’m selling to CarMax and extended my quote today. The original expired before my 2026 was delivered and I had to wait for the FSD xfer. My 2026 is getting PPF until Thursday, then I’ll head back to CarMax to turn over the old one on the weekend.

Keysavvy