2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electric · AF71 OMV

With only two MOT entries on file, both passed without advisories, this Tesla Model 3 presents a notably clean DVSA record, offering reassurance on its basic roadworthiness at the time of test. The most recent examination on 5 October 2025 recorded no defects, and the prior pass on 19 September 2024 was equally clean, indicating a stable pattern with no flagged deterioration across components typically scrutinised under the MOT regime. While the brevity of the testing history (only two passes on record, as MOT testing becomes required from the third anniversary of registration) limits how much longitudinal trend can be established, the absence of advisories on either occasion removes the most common early indicators of concern such as tyre wear anomalies, brake component issues, suspension bush deterioration, or corrosion at structural mounting points. For a buyer, this represents a strong baseline: the vehicle has cleared official inspection without any official call-outs on items the DVSA examiner deemed worthy of recording. Against an age of approximately five years, the recorded mileage of 59,202 equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 11,840 miles, which sits comfortably within the expected range for a vehicle of this type and demographic. There are no notable gaps in the testing timeline that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, nor any sudden mileage jumps between tests that might indicate clock irregularity or undisclosed heavy use. The accumulation rate observed here is consistent with regular mixed driving, whether commuting, longer motorway journeys, or a combination of both. Mechanically, this level of usage on a Model 3 of this vintage places moderate wear on the typical consumables: tyres, brake discs and pads (though regenerative braking significantly reduces pad wear on Teslas), suspension bushes, and drop links, while the electric drivetrain itself remains largely unaffected by mileage in the traditional sense. The data suggests a working vehicle rather than one subjected to extreme duty cycles or, conversely, long-term storage. Given the absence of recorded advisories, specific component defects are not flagged in the MOT history, and therefore buyer guidance should focus on the items most likely to require attention at this age and mileage on a Model 3. On a physical inspection, pay close attention to the condition of the tyres, particularly looking for uneven shoulder wear which can indicate suspension geometry issues or alignment drift, as well as any cracking or bulging on the sidewalls. Listen for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps or uneven surfaces, which could point to worn anti-roll bar bushes or drop link deterioration, items frequently flagged on higher-mileage Teslas. Inspect the underside for any signs of corrosion around the rear subframe mounting points and suspension arms, as well as the condition of the undertray, which on Teslas often shows signs of road debris impact. During the test drive, monitor for any pulling under braking, vibration through the steering wheel, or rubbing or grinding noises that might suggest binding calipers or warped brake discs, particularly if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods between drives. Finally, although the MOT record itself is reassuringly clean, the proprietary nature of Tesla's drivetrain and electronics means a number of critical systems fall outside the scope of standard MOT testing. It is advisable to confirm the state of health of the high-voltage battery pack and the vehicle's charging capability through Tesla's own diagnostic system or a specialist, as degradation here has the greatest impact on long-term value and usability. Verify that all software features are functioning as expected, including the touchscreen interface, climate control, and any driver assistance systems, as these represent known areas for hardware faults in this generation. The 12V auxiliary battery, which powers ancillary systems, should also be tested as replacement is commonly required around this mileage band. The clean MOT history is a positive foundation, but a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a Tesla-approved specialist remains the prudent course to satisfy oneself on items the DVSA examiner does not cover.