2022 Tesla Model 3 Electric · AF72 VMC

The latest DVSA MOT test on 2026-08-04 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The advisories regarding the offside rear suspension hub bush showing slight wear and the nearside rear tyre exhibiting wear close to the legal limit—particularly on the edge—suggest a maintenance trend that is stable but requires monitoring. The presence of a minor cut in the nearside rear tyre, though not severe enough to fail the test, indicates a need for vigilance, as such damage can progress rapidly if left unchecked, potentially leading to a deeper puncture or cord damage under high-stress conditions. The offside rear wheel distortion, while not critical for roadworthiness, may point to underlying suspension or wheel alignment issues that could develop into more serious problems if not addressed promptly. Overall, the vehicle’s MOT history shows no evidence of recurring failures or catastrophic defects, but the advisories highlight areas where proactive maintenance is advisable. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 42,294 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,574 miles, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a four-year-old Model 3. This mileage distribution is neither exceptionally low nor high for its age, suggesting a balanced usage profile without extreme wear-inducing conditions such as heavy towing, frequent short trips, or prolonged periods of inactivity. However, the fact that the vehicle has accumulated around 42,000 miles in just four years does imply that it has been driven consistently rather than left stationary for extended periods, which could have mitigated certain types of wear, such as brake corrosion or fluid degradation. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the MOT history supports the likelihood of regular use, which is beneficial for maintaining drivetrain and suspension components but also means that consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may have reached or approached their service intervals. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the rear suspension hub bush and tyre wear necessitate immediate attention. The slight wear on the offside rear hub bush should be inspected by a qualified technician to determine if further deterioration is imminent, as prolonged exposure to excessive movement or misalignment can lead to premature failure, potentially causing steering instability or wheel separation. During a test drive, listen for any unusual clunking or rattling from the rear suspension when cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate alignment or camber issues. The nearside rear tyre’s edge wear and cut are particularly concerning, as such damage often results from improper tyre orientation, excessive speed, or aggressive driving. Replace this tyre promptly to prevent a future failure, and consider rotating all tyres to ensure even wear across the fleet. Additionally, verify that the offside rear wheel is properly aligned and that the wheel alignment settings are within manufacturer specifications to prevent further distortion. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional components. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, focus on the rear suspension for signs of excessive play or corrosion, particularly around the control arms, bushings, and shock absorbers, as these components can degrade faster under high-mileage conditions. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs and linings, especially on the nearside rear where standing can accelerate rust formation, and inspect the brake fluid reservoir for any signs of contamination or fluid degradation, which can occur over time even with regular use. The tyre tread depth should be verified, with particular attention to the nearside rear tyre, as the advisories suggest it is nearing the legal minimum. For the remaining tyres, look for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and reduce its safety margin, particularly in cold or dry conditions. Lastly, ensure that the vehicle’s service history is up to date, with recent oil changes, fluid top-ups, and component replacements documented, as the Model 3 benefits from regular maintenance to mitigate wear on the electric motor, inverter, and other high-stress components. If the vehicle has been driven at a moderate pace, consider a battery health check, as prolonged inactivity can lead to reduced capacity or even permanent damage, though the consistent mileage suggests this is less likely.