2016 Tesla Model S Electric · LB65 EYH

The 2016 Tesla Model S presents a mechanical profile dominated by persistent front-wheel tyre degradation and intermittent wiper system failures, with the vehicle having experienced both failed and passed MOT assessments within a narrow timeframe. The most recent test on 2026-03-04 recorded a failure due to near-side front windshield wiper ineffectiveness combined with front-left tyre damage, while the subsequent same-day pass indicated temporary resolution of those issues. Across the five recorded tests spanning from 2023 to 2026, front-left and front-right tyres have repeatedly appeared worn close to legal limits or showing crackling sidewall damage, and the windshield wiper system has produced two separate non-compliance warnings. The overall trajectory is one of manageable instability rather than progressive deterioration, with the majority of tests passing once the tyre and wiper systems are addressed. The recorded mileage of 46,225 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle translates to approximately 4,622 miles per year, which stands in stark contrast to the typical wear patterns seen in comparable age groups. Such a low annual accumulation rate strongly suggests prolonged periods of inactivity, seasonal storage, or a discrepancy between the odometer reading and actual operational distance. When combined with the recurrent tyre and windshield wiper issues, this usage profile implies that critical wear indicators such as tyre tread depth, sidewall integrity, and wiper blade clearance have not undergone the normal acceleration expected from active driving. A low-mileage scenario can mask underlying mechanical fatigue because components do not experience the cumulative stress cycles that would normally produce visible deterioration. Specific components flagged in the MOT history demand focused scrutiny during a pre-purchase examination. The front-left and front-right tyres have exhibited consistent signs of wear—edges appearing rounded or cracked—and may require replacement even if tread depth remains within legal limits, particularly if sidewall damage is present. The near-side front wiper system has demonstrated inconsistent performance across multiple tests; the driver should check whether the blades rotate freely, maintain consistent spray pressure, and clear the entire windshield without streaking or missed areas. Additionally, the rear and near-side headlamp lenses have shown minor defects including slight condensation buildup and a partially broken near-side rear lens, which could affect night-time visibility and should be inspected for seal integrity and proper illumination output. Beyond the itemised faults, buyers should pay particular attention to the suspension bushings and subframe area, as the persistent front tyre damage often correlates with underlying wheel assembly wear that may not yet trigger mandatory failure criteria but could compromise handling and ride quality. The lack of any structural corrosion alerts in the MOT records is reassuring for the bodywork, but the combination of worn tyres, wiper malfunctions, and headlamp lens issues creates a realistic expectation that a thorough physical inspection will be necessary before commitment. A test drive should be conducted at various speeds to assess wiper coverage under dynamic conditions, a gentle uphill climb to evaluate tyre grip and suspension response, and a close visual check of the tyre sidewalls for any emerging cracks or bulges that would not have been apparent in static inspection alone. If the odometer reading requires verification against service history, doing so now will prevent future surprises when the next MOT is scheduled.