2016 Tesla Model S Electric · BW66 XNN

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Tesla Model S was conducted on 2025-11-05 and passed, though it included several advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable wear and tear. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years appears to be stable rather than worsening, with the vehicle passing most MOTs except for two failures in 2021 and 2024, both of which were related to tyre tread depth and minor suspension issues. The advisories from 2024 and 2025—particularly those concerning brake disc wear, suspension arm bushings, and ball joint play—suggest that while the vehicle is not yet critically failing, it requires attention to prevent further degradation. The presence of consistent but non-dangerous wear advisories implies that the owner has not been proactive about addressing these components, which could lead to more significant issues if left unresolved. The recorded mileage of 52,002 miles for a vehicle aged around ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,200 miles per year, which is notably below the average for a car of this age. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or deliberate low-wear driving habits. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee that the vehicle has been well-maintained, as prolonged idling or improper storage can accelerate wear on components like brakes, tyres, and suspension. For example, standing tyres can cause uneven wear patterns, leading to the edge wear and tread loss observed in previous MOTs, while suspension components may degrade faster when not subjected to regular dynamic loading. The absence of higher mileage figures suggests that any wear observed may be more related to the vehicle’s age and calendar-based degradation rather than operational stress. Given the advisories and past failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, brakes, and tyres. The suspension advisories—particularly the worn suspension arm bushings and ball joints—indicate that the vehicle may exhibit clunking noises when driving over bumps, uneven ride height, or excessive play in the steering when turning. Listen for any unusual suspension clunks or rattles, especially when the vehicle is driven at moderate speeds, as these can signal further bush wear or ball joint failure. Inspect the brake discs for signs of excessive pitting, warping, or uneven wear, which could lead to reduced braking performance or shuddering when braking. Test the brakes for binding or excessive sponginess, and check for any fluid leaks around the brake calipers or master cylinder. Additionally, verify that the offside front position lamp is functioning correctly, as the 2024 failure highlights a persistent issue that should be rectified to avoid recurring MOT problems. For the tyres, the buyer should conduct a visual inspection for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely to occur with low mileage and prolonged storage, even if the tread depth is currently legal. Check for uneven wear patterns, particularly on the edges of the front tyres, which aligns with the previous MOT advisories. Measure the tread depth with a gauge to ensure compliance with the legal minimum, and look for any signs of dry rot or internal tyre damage that could compromise safety. Since the vehicle has not been serviced at regular intervals, it is advisable to check the fluid levels and condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even with low mileage. Pay particular attention to the brake fluid, which should be replaced every two years or if it appears dark or contaminated, as this can lead to reduced braking efficiency. Finally, assess the battery health, as Tesla vehicles can experience reduced performance or failure if the battery has been left unused for extended periods, and consider a professional check for any signs of corrosion or electrical issues.