2023 Tesla Model 3 Electric · GL72 KTP

The most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 30 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, indicating that the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of examination. No failure items were recorded, and the only observations noted were four advisories: two concerning child seats fitted at the nearside and offside rear positions preventing full inspection of the adult seatbelts, and two relating to minor cuts on the nearside and offside rear tyres not deep enough to expose the ply or cords. While a single Pass with no recorded failures is a positive indicator, the limited MOT history available for this relatively new 2023 model makes it difficult to definitively assess a long-term maintenance trend. The presence of advisories rather than outright defects suggests that the vehicle has been broadly maintained to a satisfactory standard, though the tyre cuts warrant attention given that tyres are safety-critical components. The recorded mileage of 15,857 miles over an approximate three-year period equates to an annual usage rate of around 5,286 miles, which is considerably below the average mileage for a vehicle of this age. This lower-than-average usage could indicate either predominantly short-trip urban driving or extended periods of standing or limited use. While low mileage generally reduces wear on major mechanical components such as the drivetrain and suspension, it can conversely accelerate certain age-related deterioration issues. Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 are less susceptible to some traditional low-mileage concerns, such as oil degradation and wet timing belt issues, but the high-voltage battery pack, 12V auxiliary battery, brake discs, and tyres remain subject to calendar-based ageing regardless of mileage accumulation. Given the relatively sparse MOT history and the low annual mileage, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection focusing on age-related degradation rather than purely wear-based concerns. The advisory tyre cuts noted at the last test should be carefully examined for progression; any deepening or extension of these cuts, sidewall cracking, or perishing from age should prompt immediate replacement, as Tesla-specified tyres can be costly. Additionally, examine all four tyres for uneven wear patterns which could indicate alignment or suspension geometry issues, and verify that the manufacturing date code (DOT stamp) on each tyre is within an acceptable age range. Brake discs on low-milaged electric vehicles are particularly susceptible to corrosion and surface pitting due to the regenerative braking system doing the majority of deceleration work, leaving the friction brakes rarely engaged; inspect the discs for visible rust, lipping, and ensure the calipers are not binding by confirming the vehicle rolls freely on a level surface with the parking brake disengaged. Further inspection points should include a thorough check of the 12V auxiliary battery health, as these units typically require replacement every three to five years regardless of mileage, and failure can cause significant electrical system faults in modern vehicles. Verify the condition and charge level of the high-voltage traction battery through the vehicle's diagnostic menu or a Tesla-approved service centre check, as battery degradation can be masked by low overall mileage. The vehicle's underbody should be examined for any corrosion or damage, particularly given Tesla's aluminium-intensive construction which can present different corrosion characteristics to traditional steel-bodied vehicles. Confirm the presence and currency of all service records, including any Tesla-specific software updates, cabin filter replacements, and brake fluid servicing, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades over time independent of mileage. A test drive should be conducted paying particular attention to any unusual noises from the suspension over uneven surfaces, any pulling or drifting that could indicate alignment issues, and the smooth operation of the regenerative braking system, which should provide consistent deceleration without any warning lights or system faults displayed on the instrument cluster.