2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electricity · AF70 THX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2020 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus was conducted on 10 December 2025, resulting in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded. The two preceding tests, on 16 November 2024 and 18 October 2023, also returned clean passes with no advisories. Across three consecutive MOT cycles, there is no evidence of wear-related failures, monitoring items, or emerging mechanical concerns flagged by the tester, which indicates a stable and well-maintained vehicle from a roadworthiness perspective. While an MOT only confirms minimum statutory standards at the point of test, the absence of any recorded advisories over a three-year window is a reassuring indicator that the previous keeper addressed maintenance proactively rather than allowing components to deteriorate to borderline condition. The recorded mileage of 36,455 miles over approximately six years equates to an annual average of around 6,076 miles, which is broadly typical for a modern passenger vehicle in the UK and suggests the car has been used consistently rather than left standing for extended periods. There are no obvious gaps in usage that would raise concerns about long-term deterioration from inactivity, such as severe brake disc corrosion from prolonged standing, perishing of rubber components, or 12V auxiliary battery degradation, all of which are common issues on lightly used or stored electric vehicles. Equally, the mileage is not high enough to suggest excessive wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, or steering components, although it is worth noting that EVs tend to be heavier than their combustion equivalents, which can accelerate wear on lower suspension components and tyres over time. Consistent annual usage at this level is generally favourable for preserving mechanical integrity. Given the clean MOT record, attention should turn to age and calendar-based servicing rather than reactive repairs. Even at modest mileage, the tyres should be inspected carefully for age-related sidewall perishing and cracking, particularly as Tesla-fitted original tyres may have reached the end of their safe service life through hardening of the rubber compound rather than tread wear alone. The 12V auxiliary battery, which is critical for the vehicle's control systems and contactor operation, is also subject to calendar-based degradation and typically requires replacement every four to five years regardless of mileage, so its age and state of charge should be verified. Brake discs and calipers on EVs are particularly susceptible to corrosion and binding due to regenerative braking reducing friction pad usage, meaning the discs may show surface rust and the caliper slide pins could seize, so a physical inspection of pad and disc condition, along with a road test to confirm smooth, vibration-free braking, is advisable. A thorough pre-purchase inspection should also include verification of the high-voltage battery state of health, confirmation that all firmware updates have been applied, and a review of the service history to ensure the cooling system coolant, brake fluid, and where applicable the gear oil have been changed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals. During a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any unusual noises from the suspension over speed bumps, indicating worn bushes or top mounts, as well as any pulling under braking which could suggest a binding caliper. The drive units should operate silently and smoothly, and the regenerative braking should function consistently without warning messages. Finally, checking the underside for any signs of fluid leakage, corrosion to suspension arms, or impact damage from kerbing is essential, as these would not necessarily be captured within the MOT framework but are common concerns on a six-year-old EV.