Would You Rescue This 106-Mile Tesla Model Y Launch Series From the Junkyard? | Carscoops

      This silver Model Y was sent to a salvage auction following a rear-end accident.

      Just 8 hours ago, by Brad Anderson.

      A brand-new Tesla Model Y with only 106 miles has appeared on the Copart auction listing.

      The vehicle never left Texas before being rear-ended and is now listed for salvage in San Antonio.

      Repairing this Tesla could be expensive, especially if any of the gigacasted components are affected.

      It’s only been a couple of months since Tesla commenced US deliveries of the new Model Y Launch Series, and already, we are witnessing another salvage situation. Following closely behind a previous incident where a car crashed after just 197 miles (the one we reported on recently), this second scarcely-driven Launch Series Model Y is now up for auction, quietly awaiting its fate. The major question remains: is it worth salvaging?

      More: Someone Already Crashed A 2026 Tesla Model Y Juniper After Only 197 Miles.

      This specific Model Y is listed through Copart out of San Antonio, Texas. After leaving Tesla’s Austin Gigafactory, it appears the car didn’t travel far—likely not crossing state lines before being rear-ended. The odometer reflects this, showing it had only driven 106 miles (170 km) before its premature end.

      The damage is considerable, and regardless of opinions on Tesla’s primary vehicle, it’s still disheartening to see a brand-new electric vehicle in this condition.

      For anyone looking to repair this Model Y, they'll need to acquire a new tailgate, rear quarter panels, taillights, light bar, and rear bumper. Notably, these are just the visible damaged parts, and there may also be structural harm to the body of the Tesla.

      This is where it becomes complicated. Tesla employs extensive gigacasting in the manufacturing of the Model Y, with the entire rear section cast from a single piece. Although this practice has enabled Tesla to reduce production costs, gigacasting can complicate repairs and increase expenses if parts are available. Some techniques have been developed for fixing Tesla’s gigacasted sections, but it remains a complex process best left to experienced shops.

      Read: Tesla Finally Launches Cheaper Model Y Juniper.

      In the end, it may not be worth the trouble as the calculations for repair might not add up. While Tesla has stopped selling the Model Y Launch Series in the US, it has introduced the Long Range All-Wheel Drive model, starting at $48,990, or $41,490 with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. This makes it a strong option for anyone considering a new all-electric SUV of this size.

      However, if someone is interested in a project (and likely a challenge), Copart has the listing available for viewing.