2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD Electric · GL22 LEJ

The most recent DVSA examination on 30 June 2026 recorded a clean pass with no advisories or defects, which on the surface is reassuring. However, evaluating the maintenance trend requires looking beyond the latest result. Across the preceding three annual tests, a recurring advisory has appeared for the offside rear upper suspension arm pin or bush, first noted on 28 June 2023 with reference to the upper knuckle bush/joint having slight play, then again on 18 June 2024 and 27 June 2025. The fact that this advisory has now disappeared from the 2026 test could indicate that remedial work has been carried out, or alternatively that the component has worn further to a point where it is now being considered acceptable or has not deteriorated beyond the advisory threshold. Coupled with the 2025 advisories regarding all four inner tyres being worn close to the legal limit with pronounced inner-edge wear, the overall pattern suggests a vehicle that has been working hard and accumulating wear on suspension and tyre components, rather than one whose condition is demonstrably improving. The latest clean test is a positive but should not be taken in isolation. With a recorded mileage of 118,878 miles over approximately four years, this Model Y is averaging around 29,720 miles per year, which is substantially above the UK national average and places it firmly in the high-mileage bracket. There is no evidence in the MOT history of extended standing periods or significant mileage gaps between tests, indicating consistent and sustained use. For a battery electric vehicle, high mileage is not inherently detrimental to the powertrain in the way it would be for an internal combustion engine, as there are fewer consumables such as oil, filters, spark plugs or timing belts to replace. However, the chassis and associated components still suffer proportional wear. Brake discs and pads on EVs typically last longer due to regenerative braking, but the suspension, steering, wheel bearings, tyres and CV joints all experience mechanical fatigue in line with mileage. The high annual mileage also makes the condition of the high-voltage battery state of health a particularly important consideration, as degradation accelerates with both age and cycle count. Given the recurring offside rear upper suspension arm bush advisory, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to this area during any physical inspection. The component in question is the upper knuckle bush or pin joint, and symptoms to listen for on a test drive would include a clonking or knocking noise from the rear suspension when traversing speed bumps, potholes or uneven road surfaces, as well as vague or imprecise rear handling and possible uneven rear tyre wear. It is worth inspecting the inner edges of the rear tyres for feathering or one-sided wear, as this can indicate worn suspension geometry. The 2025 advisories recorded inner-edge wear on all four tyres, which suggests a possible tracking or camber issue as well as suspension wear. A buyer should request evidence of recent geometry checks and tyre replacement, and consider budgeting for replacement of the rear upper arm bush or pin assembly if it has not been addressed. Beyond the recurring advisories, the high mileage and four-year age warrant a number of standard age-related checks. The 12-volt auxiliary battery in particular is a known service item on Teslas and should be tested for voltage and load capacity, as failure can lead to a range of electrical issues. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking or perishing from age, regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades with calendar age. Brake calipers, which may see limited use due to regenerative braking, can seize and should be checked for free movement. All fluids, including brake fluid which degrades hygroscopically, and the coolant for the battery and motor systems, should be confirmed as being within their recommended service intervals. Cabin and HEPA filters are also consumables that benefit from periodic replacement. Finally, a battery health diagnostic from a specialist would be strongly advisable given the mileage, to confirm that the high-voltage pack retains a commercially acceptable percentage of its original capacity.