2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · V4 AOH

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 27 February 2026 with a single advisory issued for the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit on the edge, recorded at 2mm of tread remaining. Prior to that, the car passed cleanly in March 2025 following a failure the day before, which was caused by a nearside rear inner tyre with a cut exposing the ply or cords. This was an isolated and specific defect rather than a systemic issue, and the fact that it was rectified and the vehicle returned to a pass the following day suggests prompt remedial action. The overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable, with the only recorded concerns relating to tyre condition rather than mechanical, structural, or braking defects. No advisories or failures have been raised regarding suspension components, brake discs or pads, corrosion, steering, or lighting, which is a positive indicator for a vehicle of this age and mileage profile. With approximately 65,167 miles recorded over a five-year period, the vehicle is accumulating roughly 13,000 miles annually, which is notably above the national average and places it firmly in the high-use category. This level of annual mileage accelerates wear on consumable items such as tyres, brake pads and discs, and places greater demand on the dual electric motors, reduction gearboxes, and high-voltage battery thermal management system. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage across the MOT history, indicating consistent use rather than long periods of standing, which is generally beneficial for an electric vehicle as it reduces risks associated with brake disc corrosion, tyre flat-spotting, and 12V auxiliary battery degradation. However, the higher mileage does warrant closer inspection of wear-prone components during a physical evaluation. Given the advisory recorded on the most recent test, the nearside front tyre should be inspected for uneven edge wear, which on a Model 3 typically points to either incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension components such as control arm bushes or drop links, or simply wear progression from the vehicle's weight and torque characteristics. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, and pay attention to steering vagueness, pulling to one side, or vibration through the steering wheel, any of which could indicate tracking issues or worn suspension bushes that have not yet been flagged at MOT. The previous failure for a cut in the rear tyre suggests the wheels may have been kerbed or the car operated on damaged wheels, so all four wheels and tyres should be examined for scuffs, buckles, or signs of impact damage, and the tyres checked for age-related sidewall perishing given the vehicle is now five years old. Beyond the tyre concerns, prospective buyers should carry out a thorough physical inspection appropriate to a high-mileage electric vehicle. Check the high-voltage battery state of health via the Tesla touchscreen or a third-party diagnostic tool, as the long-range battery pack should still retain the vast majority of its original capacity, but degradation should be quantified. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for any fluid leaks from the gearbox assemblies, examine the brake discs for wear ridges and ensure the calipers are releasing correctly, as binding calipers are a known issue on vehicles that experience heavy regenerative braking use. Verify the 12V auxiliary battery condition, as Tesla Model 3s require replacement of this battery at relatively short intervals regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the cabin filter and brake fluid have been serviced within their recommended intervals, and inspect the charge port and cables for any signs of damage or overheating, ensuring the vehicle history is supported by proper documentation.