A 2013 Tesla Model S owner faces battery replacement costs of $23,000—almost double the car’s resale value. Explore options and save today.
The Shocking Price Tag
A 2013 Tesla Model S owner took his car to a Tesla service center in Wisconsin and was hit with two battery‑replacement proposals. The original 60 kWh pack costs $13,830 total, including $580.5 for labor. The larger 90 kWh upgrade jumps to $23,262 after adding a $4,500 unlock fee and installation labor.
Breakdown of the Two Options
- 60 kWh stock battery: $13,250 for the battery itself + $580.5 labor = $13,830 total.
- 90 kWh upgraded battery: $18,000 for the pack + $4,500 to unlock full capacity + $580.5 labor + additional parts ≈ $23,262 total.
Is It Worth the Money?
The resale market for a 2013 Model S hovers between $10,000 and $15,000 depending on condition and trim. Even the cheaper 60 kWh replacement exceeds the upper end of that range, while the 90 kWh upgrade is more than double the car’s likely selling price. From a financial standpoint, the upgrade is hard to justify.
Community Reactions
Reddit users shared mixed feelings. Many veterans report driving their original batteries for hundreds of thousands of kilometres without major issues, yet battery degradation is inevitable. For owners of older Teslas, a full battery swap often feels like the only viable path, even if the price is steep.
Alternative Solutions
Third‑party refurbishers and independent EV shops sometimes offer lower‑cost battery packs, but the price gap remains significant. Given the car’s age and modest resale value, investing $12,000‑$23,000 in a new battery rarely makes economic sense. Most owners opt to sell the vehicle as‑is or consider a newer EV.
Bottom Line
Battery replacement for an aging Tesla Model S can cost as much as, or even more than, the car’s market value. Before committing, weigh the upgrade against resale potential, explore reputable third‑party options, and decide whether staying on the road or moving on is the smarter choice.