The Tesla Model S ordering process starts on Tesla's website and moves through configuration, payment setup, and delivery scheduling

You begin by visiting Tesla.com, selecting Model S, and choosing your preferred configuration — exterior color, wheel size, interior trim, and powertrain option (Long Range or Plaid). Tesla shows you the current price and estimated delivery window before you commit. Once you've configured the vehicle, you'll create or sign into your Tesla account, enter your delivery address, and select a payment method. Tesla accepts credit cards, bank transfers, and financing through their lending partners. After you complete these steps, Tesla assigns your order a number and provides an estimated delivery date, which typically ranges from a few weeks to several months depending on current demand and your configuration choices.

The ordering process itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. However, the time between order and delivery depends on factory production schedules, which vary based on the options you select and current order volume. Tesla updates your estimated delivery window periodically as your vehicle moves through production and logistics.

Key Takeaways

  • You configure your Model S on Tesla.com by choosing color, wheels, interior, and powertrain before paying the order fee.
  • Tesla accepts credit cards, bank transfers, and third-party financing, and you can change your configuration up until production begins.
  • Estimated delivery windows shown at order time are not may provide and shift based on production capacity and logistics.
  • You'll receive updates via email and your Tesla account as your vehicle moves through production, and final delivery scheduling happens closer to the completion date.
  • Cancellation is possible before delivery, though Tesla's refund policy depends on the stage of production when you cancel.

Configuring your Model S and placing the order

Start at Tesla.com and navigate to the Model S product page. You'll see two powertrain options: Long Range (dual motor, all-wheel drive) and Plaid (tri-motor, higher performance). Select the powertrain that fits your needs, then choose exterior color, wheel size, and interior trim. Tesla displays the price for each combination in real time, so you can see how each choice affects the total cost.

Once your configuration is complete, you'll review the summary and proceed to checkout. You'll need a Tesla account — create one if you don't have one already — and enter your delivery address. This address determines your delivery location and any applicable taxes or fees. After confirming your address, you'll select a payment method and enter the required information. Tesla charges an order fee (the amount varies by region and current promotions) at this stage, separate from the vehicle price. This fee is typically non-refundable if you cancel after production has begun, though refund policies can change.

Payment methods and financing options

Tesla accepts credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) for the order fee and down payment. For the full vehicle price, you can pay in full via bank transfer, or you can finance through Tesla's lending partners. Tesla's financing is handled by third-party lenders, and your rate and terms depend on your credit profile, down payment amount, and loan term. You can also bring your own financing from a bank or credit union — Tesla will work with your lender to coordinate payment at delivery.

If you choose Tesla financing, you'll complete a credit process during or shortly after ordering. The lender will contact you with rate and term options. You're not locked into Tesla financing at order time; you can change your payment method later, up until delivery. Some buyers finance through their own bank to find a lower rate, while others use Tesla's financing for convenience.

How long delivery takes and what affects timing

Tesla provides an estimated delivery window at the time you place your order. This window is typically shown as a range — for example, "December 2024 to February 2025" — rather than a specific date. The actual delivery date depends on several factors: your configuration (standard options deliver faster than rare color or wheel combinations), current production capacity, and logistics routing to your delivery location. High-demand configurations or colors may add weeks or months to the estimate.

Tesla updates your estimated delivery window periodically as your vehicle moves through production. You'll receive email notifications when your vehicle enters production, when it's completed, and when it's ready for delivery scheduling. The final delivery date is typically confirmed within one to two weeks before the scheduled delivery. If you need your vehicle by a specific date, ordering a configuration with a shorter estimated window increases the likelihood of meeting that important date.

Tracking your order and making changes before delivery

After you place your order, you can track its status by logging into your Tesla account and viewing your order details. The status will show whether your vehicle is in the queue, in production, completed, or in transit. You can also see your estimated delivery window and any updates to that timeline. Tesla sends email updates at key milestones, but checking your account directly gives you the most current information.

You can modify your configuration — color, wheels, interior trim, or powertrain — up until production begins on your specific vehicle. Once production starts, most changes are no longer possible. If you want to make a change after production has begun, you'll typically need to cancel your current order and place a new one. Some buyers request a delay in production to allow time for configuration changes, though Tesla's ability to accommodate this varies.

Delivery scheduling and what happens on delivery day

When your vehicle is nearly complete, Tesla will contact you to schedule a delivery appointment. You'll choose a delivery location (Tesla's delivery center, your home, or a service center, depending on your region) and a date and time. Delivery appointments are typically available within a one- to two-week window. You'll need to bring a valid driver's license and proof of insurance to take delivery.

At delivery, a Tesla representative will walk you through the vehicle's features, answer questions, and review the delivery paperwork. You'll inspect the vehicle for any damage or defects before signing the delivery documents. If you find issues, report them when ready — Tesla can address minor issues on the spot or schedule service for more complex repairs. After delivery, you have a one-week period to report any concerns and request service adjustments.

Cancellation and refund policies

You can cancel your Model S order at any time, but the refund terms depend on when you cancel. If you cancel before production begins, Tesla typically refunds your order fee and down payment, minus any non-refundable fees (which vary by region). Once production has started, refund policies become more restrictive. Some regions allow a full refund if you cancel within a certain window after production begins, while others do not. Check Tesla's current refund policy for your region before ordering.

If you cancel after your vehicle is completed and ready for delivery, you may forfeit your down payment or face additional fees. The exact terms depend on your region and Tesla's current policies. If you're uncertain about the refund policy, contact Tesla's sales team before placing your order to understand your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Model S configuration after I place my order?

Yes, you can change color, wheels, interior, or powertrain up until production begins on your vehicle. Once production starts, changes are typically not allowed. If you want to modify your order after production has begun, you'll need to cancel and place a new order. Tesla will notify you when production is about to start, giving you a window to make final changes.

What if my estimated delivery date changes?

Estimated delivery windows shift frequently based on production schedules and logistics. Tesla updates your estimate periodically, and you'll receive email notifications of significant changes. If your new estimate no longer works for you, you can request a delay or cancel your order. Contact Tesla's sales team to discuss your options.

Do I have to pay the full price at order time?

No. You pay an order fee (typically $100 to $250, depending on region) at order time, then a down payment (usually 10 to 20 percent of the vehicle price) before production begins. The remaining balance is due at delivery. If you're financing, the lender pays Tesla directly at delivery, and you make monthly payments to the lender.

Can I use my own financing instead of Tesla's?

Yes. You can bring financing from your bank, credit union, or other lender. Inform Tesla of your financing source during or after ordering, and provide your lender's contact information. Your lender will coordinate with Tesla to pay the vehicle price at delivery. This approach can work well if you find a lower rate elsewhere.

What happens if I find defects when I take delivery?

Report any damage or defects to the Tesla representative at delivery before signing the delivery documents. Tesla can address minor issues when ready or schedule service for more complex repairs. You have a one-week period after delivery to report concerns and request service adjustments. Document any issues with photos if possible.