2016 Tesla Model S Electric · GY16 ABN

The Tesla Model S in question demonstrates a stable roadworthiness profile over the past two years, with the most recent MOT test on 6 March 2026 confirming no defects at 40,512 miles. The pattern of two consecutive passes—following a single failure in March 2025—suggests the vehicle has been maintained adequately since then, though the repeated failures in early 2024 and 2025 warrant closer scrutiny of the underlying issues. No advisories or recurring faults appear in the latest tests, but the proximity of the last failure to the current pass (just 16 miles apart) hints at a narrow margin for error in critical components. The absence of defects in the most recent test does not preclude hidden wear, particularly in high-stress areas like regenerative braking systems or suspension linkages, which are not always fully assessed in standard MOTs. The recorded mileage of 40,512 miles over a decade—approximately 4,051 miles annually—indicates unusually light usage for a vehicle of this age, which may partially explain the lack of severe wear. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests (a 4,206-mile interval) and the subsequent 2025–2026 gap (2,662 miles) suggests periods of inactivity rather than consistent driving. Such stagnation can accelerate deterioration in fluid systems (e.g., brake fluid absorption, coolant degradation) or lead to stiff suspension components due to prolonged immobility. The failure to pass in March 2025 at 37,840 miles—just 8 miles before the subsequent pass—implies a component nearing failure, potentially in the braking system or emissions controls, which Tesla vehicles often rely on for compliance. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the regenerative braking system, including brake discs, pads, and caliper binding, as these were likely the cause of the 2024 and 2025 failures. The suspension should be checked for worn bushes, coil spring integrity, and corrosion at mounting points, particularly if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Tyre condition, though not flagged in MOTs, should be verified, as the repeated failures in early tests could imply tread-related issues were narrowly avoided. Finally, the battery health—critical to Tesla’s operation—should be assessed for capacity retention, though this is not MOT-visible; a specialist diagnostic would be necessary to confirm degradation beyond the expected range for this mileage. The lack of advisories in recent tests does not eliminate the risk of latent faults, so thoroughness in inspection is advised.