2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · AF71 ORK

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD was conducted on 2026-02-13, resulting in a passing outcome with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of issues that warrant cautious consideration. The 2025-02-15 MOT, just over a year prior, failed due to a critical tyre defect on the nearside rear tyre—specifically, a cut exceeding the legal requirements that exposed the ply or cords, which is a severe breach of 5.2.3 (d) (i). Additionally, an advisory was issued for the offside rear tyre, which was worn dangerously close to the legal limit or worn unevenly on the edge, indicative of either excessive wear or improper alignment. While the 2025-02-18 MOT passed without further defects, the presence of these failures suggests that the vehicle may have undergone significant wear or damage to the tyres prior to the 2025 test, potentially from underinflation, road debris, or improper handling. The fact that the latest MOT passed without these issues implies either a corrective action was taken—such as tyre replacement or alignment—but the history raises questions about the underlying causes and whether similar defects could recur. The recorded mileage of 37,536 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,507 miles per annum, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this model. However, the mileage data alone does not fully explain the tyre failures observed in the MOT history. A closer look at the usage profile would be beneficial—whether there were periods of high mileage accumulation, potential long-standing periods, or exposure to harsh conditions that accelerated tyre wear. For example, standing the vehicle for extended periods can lead to brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in the suspension and steering systems, which could indirectly contribute to uneven tyre wear. Conversely, rapid mileage accumulation might suggest more aggressive driving, which could have exacerbated tyre damage from road debris or improper tyre pressure management. The absence of other MOT failures aside from the tyres suggests that while the drivetrain, exhaust, and structural components may be in acceptable condition, the tyre system warrants heightened scrutiny. Given the critical tyre failure and advisory from the 2025 MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, including the following checks: verify that all four tyres have been replaced since the failure, ensuring the new tyres meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications for load and speed ratings; inspect the tread depth uniformly across the face and edges of the offside rear tyre, as uneven wear patterns may indicate misalignment or suspension issues; and check for any signs of road debris damage, such as cuts, bulges, or exposed cords, which could compromise tyre integrity. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear wheels, such as clunking or vibration, which may signal misalignment or suspension wear. Additionally, examine the brake system for signs of excessive heat damage or uneven wear on the discs, as prolonged braking could exacerbate tyre wear. If the tyres were replaced after the 2025 failure, confirm the service history and ensure the replacement tyres were installed by a qualified professional. If the tyres remain in place, the buyer should be prepared for the risk of recurrence, potentially requiring further replacement or alignment work. For the broader vehicle assessment, given the age and mileage, the buyer should also focus on calendar-based maintenance checks. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the battery health, as Tesla batteries degrade over time, and consider a professional assessment of its capacity and voltage levels. Check the condition of the 12V auxiliary battery and associated wiring for signs of corrosion or damage, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion in these systems. Inspect the suspension components for signs of wear, such as bulging or cracking in the coil springs, and listen for clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged linkages. Verify that all fluids, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can occur over time even with low mileage. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, ensuring emissions compliance, and check for any structural integrity issues, such as rust on the chassis or undercarriage, which could compromise the vehicle’s safety. If the vehicle has been used primarily for short trips or stored for extended periods, the buyer should be particularly vigilant about fluid degradation and standing-related corrosion.