Lease prices for the Tesla Model Y jumped $200 in just a few months, making "don't buy tesla model y now" the smartest advice for many buyers. Back in May the entry-level deal sat at $399 per month. Today the same Model Y starts at $599, and the regular version has vanished from the configurator entirely.
Why the sudden tesla model y lease price increase
Tesla tweaks incentives constantly. The Model Y L series end is already baked into the schedule, and once those units clear the lot the remaining inventory will likely carry even higher monthly payments. If you need the vehicle today the current numbers still beat gas, but anyone who can wait should.
Should i wait for model 3 refresh instead
The Model 3 refresh rumors keep circulating—black headliner, bigger screen, maybe Cybertruck-style lighting. Realistically the changes will stay minor. The car still sells well without them, so a full cabin overhaul probably isn't coming soon. If you're cross-shopping, the Model Y already received its major update, so the bigger question is whether the lease math works for your budget right now.
Real owner complaints hit home
One Rivian owner shared a brutal Electrify America session: 64 minutes and $64 later the battery only reached 94 percent. Public charging rarely beats a hybrid's fuel cost. The real savings come from home charging. Without it, switching to an EV loses most of its advantage unless you're replacing a diesel truck that guzzles $200 of fuel weekly.
When the deal is still worth taking
If you're already spending $500–$1,000 a month on gas, the Model Y can pencil out today. Just lock in the current rate before another round of increases hits. Use the Tesla referral — 3 months free FSD + low APR financing to add three months of Full Self-Driving at no extra cost—eligible even after you place the order.
Lease versus finance reality check
Plenty of owners regret jumping in without running the full numbers. For a deeper comparison of monthly costs and long-term ownership, check my breakdown on lease versus finance options.
Bottom line on timing
The Model Y L series end and rising payments point to one clear takeaway: if you don't need the car immediately, waiting a few months could bring better incentives or at least confirm the price floor. Run your own fuel-cost math first. If the numbers still favor an EV today, grab the deal and the referral bonus before the window closes.
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