2017 Tesla Model S Electricity · BT67 HDV

As a pure electric vehicle, this Model S is exempt from VED (road tax) until it changes ownership, after which it will fall into the standard zero-emission band of £195 per year for vehicles registered after April 2017. Electricity costs depend heavily on charging habits, but a full charge delivers around 300 miles of real-world range, costing roughly £15-£20 at home electricity rates or more on rapid chargers.

Insurance for the Model S typically falls into groups 50 (P100D) or similar high groupings due to its performance and repair costs. Expect premiums in the £1,200-£2,000 range depending on your profile, postcode, and driving history. Tyres are a notable expense given the heavy weight of the vehicle and the pattern observed in the MOT history, with a full set likely costing £800-£1,200.

Maintenance on an older Model S can be unpredictable outside of Tesla's warranty network. Air suspension failures, touchscreen (MCU) replacements, and door handle issues are commonly reported across the model range. Budget conservatively for unexpected repairs, as specialist Tesla servicing outside the manufacturer network is limited. Annual running costs including electricity, insurance, tyres, and contingency maintenance are likely in the £2,200-£3,000 range.

The February 2025 failure specifically flagged the offside front rear lower arm outer ball joint as likely to become detached. During inspection, physically check this joint and the surrounding suspension components for play, damage, or signs of recent repair. Also inspect the nearside front equivalent, as suspension wear is rarely one-sided on a vehicle of this age and weight.

The tyre-related failures and advisories across multiple tests suggest this is a known weak point for the Model S, with the model aggregate data listing tyres as the top MOT failure reason. Check all four tyres for cuts, uneven wear, and age-related cracking, particularly on the inner edges which can wear prematurely due to camber settings. Also inspect the brake discs, as the 2023 test noted wear and pitting on the offside rear disc, which could indicate further deterioration by now.

Beyond the MOT-recorded items, this Model S should be inspected for the common Model S weaknesses: check the air suspension for sagging or uneven ride height, test the touchscreen for responsiveness and dead pixels, verify the operation of the retractable door handles, and listen for any unusual noises from the drivetrain. The windscreen washer jet issue noted in the 2025 failure may indicate an underlying electrical concern, so test all electrical systems thoroughly. Given the higher-than-average mileage accumulation relative to typical Model S usage patterns, a battery health diagnostic is strongly recommended.