2022 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · BK22 DDO

A persistent rear suspension issue dominates the mechanical narrative of this Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD. Across the three recorded MOT tests spanning 2025 to 2026, advisories relating to rear suspension arm pins or bushes have appeared repeatedly, specifically on both the offside and nearside upper suspension arms. The defect first surfaced in February 2025, was noted again in February 2026, and persisted into the most recent pass on 30 March 2026. While each instance was recorded as not resulting in excessive movement and therefore passed the test, the recurrence on the same components across consecutive years suggests progressive wear rather than a resolved condition. The 2025 test also captured rear tyre wear on both sides down to 2mm, indicating that the tyres were approaching the legal limit at that point and have since required replacement. No other component categories, including brakes, steering, or structure, have been flagged in the recorded history. The mileage profile reflects notably high usage for a four-year-old vehicle. With 110,861 miles recorded against an age of approximately four years, this equates to an average of around 27,715 miles annually, which sits well above typical private-car usage and is more consistent with fleet, chauffeur, or long-distance commuter operation. The testing pattern itself shows a reasonable cadence with annual tests, but the rapid mile accumulation between February 2025 and March 2026, during which the vehicle would have covered tens of thousands of miles, provides a mechanical context that aligns with the recurring rear suspension advisories. Higher annual mileage accelerates wear on suspension components, tyres, brake discs and pads, and drivetrain elements, and the recorded data here is consistent with that expectation rather than contradicting it. For a prospective buyer, the rear suspension arm pin and bush wear is the principal area warranting physical inspection and a careful test drive. The advisories reference the upper suspension arms at the rear, so listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension when traversing speed humps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, particularly over the back axle. With the vehicle stationary, attempt to rock each rear wheel horizontally at the top and bottom to detect any slack or play in the bushes, and pay attention to any vagueness or delay in the rear suspension's response during direction changes. Given that the advisories specifically mention slight play, even minor audible knocks or perceptible movement under load would suggest the components have degraded further since the last test. It would be prudent to budget for replacement of both rear upper suspension arm assemblies, particularly if any test-drive symptoms emerge. The 2025 advisory noting rear tyres worn down to 2mm on both sides indicates an aggressive rear-tyre wear pattern, which is common on high-mileage rear-driven or dual-motor vehicles and can be compounded by alignment settings. On a test drive, monitor for any rear-end instability, tramlining, or uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, as this could point to the same suspension bush degradation affecting wheel geometry. Given the sustained high mileage, the brake discs and pads, although not flagged in the MOT record, are likely to have absorbed significant wear and should be physically inspected for disc lipping, pad thickness, and any binding caliper symptoms such as a dragging sensation or uneven rotational resistance. Beyond the recorded history, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with Tesla chassis components would be advisable to assess the true condition of the rear suspension geometry and any related underbody components.