2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electricity · BT71 YMO

The Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD presents a clean roadworthiness record, with a stable and improving maintenance trend confirmed by consecutive passes. The most recent MOT, conducted on 3 December 2025 at 22,724 miles, returned with zero defects recorded, indicating no mechanical, structural, or emissions-related concerns at that time. The preceding test on 19 December 2024 at 17,889 miles also passed without advisories or failures. This pattern suggests the vehicle has been maintained to a consistently high standard, with no recurring faults or emerging mechanical deterioration evident across the available history. The mileage accumulation of approximately 4,835 miles per year between the two recorded tests is notably low for a vehicle of this age. A five-year-old car averaging under 5,000 miles annually typically indicates short urban journeys or extended periods of limited use. While low mileage generally reduces wear on consumables such as brake discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, prolonged inactivity can introduce its own risks. Seals may dry out, tyres can develop flat spots, and batteries, both the high-voltage traction pack and the 12-volt auxiliary unit, may suffer from irregular charge cycles. The gap between the two MOT entries spans nearly a full year, which is consistent with standard annual testing intervals and suggests no unusual delays or missed tests. The complete absence of advisories or defects across both tests is uncommon for a vehicle approaching five years of age and implies attentive ownership. Tesla's electric drivetrain eliminates many traditional wear items such as exhaust systems, clutches, and timing belts, reducing the scope of potential mechanical failure. However, the regenerative braking system in Model 3s can lead to reduced use of the friction brakes, which in low-mileage applications may result in surface corrosion on brake discs and binding calipers if the mechanical brakes are not regularly exercised. A prospective buyer should verify that the brake discs show even wear and that the calipers retract freely during a physical inspection. Despite the clean MOT record, an in-person inspection should focus on suspension components, including lower arm bushes and anti-roll bar links, which can deteriorate through age rather than mileage. Tyre condition warrants close scrutiny given the low annual usage, as sidewalls may show cracking from ozone exposure or age-related degradation even where tread depth remains adequate. The vehicle's structural integrity, particularly around mounting points and subframe areas, should be checked for corrosion, as EVs carry significant battery weight that places sustained stress on the chassis. The high-voltage battery's state of health should be verified through Tesla's diagnostic tools, since infrequent use can mask degradation that standard MOT checks do not assess.