Which Tesla models qualify for the car loan interest deduction?
Every Tesla model we track (5) is assembled in the United States and passes the final-assembly test.
Brand does not matter for this deduction. What matters is where the specific vehicle had its final assembly. Below is every Tesla model we track, sorted by whether it passes that test. Assembly data is from the NHTSA American Automobile Labeling Act (Part 583) reports for model years 2025 and 2026, plus manufacturer disclosures where a model is not listed.
US-assembled Tesla models
These pass the final-assembly test.
| Model | Plant(s) |
|---|---|
| Tesla Cybertruck | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Tesla Model 3 | Fremont, California, USA |
| Tesla Model S | Fremont, California, USA |
| Tesla Model X | Fremont, California, USA |
| Tesla Model Y | Fremont, California, USA; Austin, Texas, USA |
Check your exact Tesla
Trim and model year can change the plant. Your VIN settles it.
The other rules
Passing the assembly test is necessary but not sufficient. The IRS also requires all of the following.
- Up to $10,000 a year of interest on a qualifying car loan, for tax years 2025 through 2028.
- You get it whether or not you itemize. It sits on Form 1040, Schedule 1-A, Part IV, "No Tax on Car Loan Interest."
- Income limit: the deduction shrinks by $200 for every $1,000 (or part of one) of modified adjusted gross income above $100,000 single or $200,000 married filing jointly. The cut comes off your actual interest, not off the $10,000 cap, so a small loan can hit $0 well before $150,000.
- The vehicle: a car, minivan, van, SUV, pickup, or motorcycle, under 14,000 lb, bought new (you are the first owner), and finally assembled in the United States. Brand does not matter; a Honda from Ohio qualifies and a Ford from Mexico does not.
- The loan: started after December 31, 2024, secured by a first lien on the vehicle, from a lender that is not a relative or a business you own. Personal use only. Leases don't count. Refinancing a qualifying loan generally keeps it qualifying.
- Paperwork: you must enter the VIN on your return. Lenders send Form 1098-VLI if you paid $600 or more in interest.