2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · LB71 DTY

The vehicle's most recent DVSA examination on 21 October 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, and the previous test on 11 December 2024 similarly passed without comment. The only failure in the recorded history occurred on 10 December 2024, immediately preceding that pass, and concerned dangerous rear tyre tread depth falling below the 1.6mm statutory minimum on both the nearside and offside rear tyres, accompanied by advisories for the front pair wearing close to the legal limit and on their edges. Because the advisories at the rear had already escalated to a dangerous failure by the time of testing, and the front tyres were already noted as marginal, a prospective buyer should treat the overall pattern as one brief but significant episode rather than evidence of chronic neglect. The fact that the car returned a pass just one day later, once tyres had presumably been replaced, suggests the underlying mechanical condition is stable, but tyre management on this particular vehicle warrants close scrutiny. With approximately 35,729 miles recorded over five years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,100 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and category and indicates regular rather than sporadic use. There are no obvious extended gaps in the mileage record that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, which is favourable for an electric vehicle because lithium-ion traction batteries and associated thermal management components suffer less degradation when kept in active service. Equally, the mileage is not so high as to imply excessive wear on suspension bushes, brake components, or rolling stock, although the dual-motor Long Range configuration does place additional loading on tyres and underbody components relative to a standard rear-wheel-drive example. On a test drive, listen for any untoward noises from the suspension over uneven surfaces and verify that the regenerative braking system is functioning smoothly, as this has a bearing on brake disc and pad longevity. Given that the rear tyres fell below legal tread depth at a relatively modest 30,000-odd miles and the fronts were already showing edge wear at the same point, tyre specification, fitment quality, and wheel alignment are areas that demand particular attention. During a physical inspection, check that all four tyres are of the same make, size, and speed rating, and examine the sidewalls for any signs of premature perishing, cracking, or bulges, particularly if the vehicle has spent time outdoors. Edge wear on the fronts is consistent with geometric misalignment, so a four-wheel alignment check would be prudent, and the buyer should ask for evidence of recent tyre replacements and any alignment invoices. It is also worth inspecting the wheels themselves for kerb damage and verifying that the tyre pressures, including the spare or repair kit if fitted, are correctly set, as incorrect pressures on a heavy dual-motor vehicle will accelerate uneven tread wear. Beyond the documented tyre issues, the MOT history is otherwise unremarkable, but several age-related items warrant physical checks. Even on an electric vehicle, the 12-volt auxiliary battery, which powers ancillary systems and control modules, typically requires replacement every four to six years, so its condition and date of manufacture should be verified. Brake discs on lightly-driven EVs are susceptible to corrosion and surface pitting due to the regenerative system's reliance on friction braking being infrequently demanded, so inspect the visible faces of all discs for significant rust build-up, scoring, or lipping, and confirm that the calipers are releasing freely without binding. The underbody, including suspension arms, bushes, and the high-voltage cable runs, should be examined for corrosion or damage, particularly around the rear axle assembly where Tesla Model 3 vehicles have been known to experience premature bush wear. Finally, given the absence of oil changes from the service history, request evidence that the transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid have been serviced in line with Tesla's time-based schedule, and confirm that the cabin filtration has been renewed, as these items are not assessed during an MOT but are essential to the long-term integrity of the vehicle.