Tesla Model Y: These Colors Lose Over 50% of Their Value in Five Years

A recent study reveals that certain Tesla colors depreciate much faster, significantly affecting the resale value of the brand’s most popular models.

The Biggest Losers in Resale Value

The Tesla Model Y is famous for its performance, technology, and design–but color plays a critical role in its resale value. According to a NexusMedia study based on EasySearch data, some colors lose more than 50% of their value over five years. Specifically, black Model Ys depreciate by 51.7%, silver by 50.9%, and blue by 50.4%, exceeding the 2025 U.S. five-year average of 45.6%. Even a well-maintained vehicle can see its resale significantly affected by its color choice.

Colors That Hold Their Value

Not all colors suffer the same depreciation. Red and white Model Ys retain their value much better, with red losing only 3.23% and white just 0.83% over five years. This translates to a 50.8% difference between black and white Model Ys, equaling thousands of dollars on vehicles that are otherwise nearly identical in mileage and features.

While the Model Y stands out, other vehicles also experience notable depreciation. The Ford F-150 in red loses 43.3%, the blue version 42.6%, and the Nissan Rogue in blue drops 40%. This demonstrates that color impacts all vehicles, but electric cars like the Tesla Model Y are particularly sensitive to these trends in the used-car market.

Why Color Matters

Choosing a car color may seem personal, but research shows it can dramatically influence long-term resale value. Some colors fade faster, fall out of style, or are less popular among used-car buyers, resulting in lower market demand and reduced resale prices.

For Tesla owners, these trends are even more pronounced. CarEdge estimates that the Model Y loses around 60% of its value in five years, while the Model S drops up to 71%. Understanding these trends and choosing the right combination of model and color can save–or cost–thousands of dollars over the vehicle’s lifespan.