2018 Tesla Model S Electric · LC68 MUW

The 2018 Tesla Model S presents a stable and improving roadworthiness profile, culminating in a clean pass on 26 July 2025 at 24,242 miles. The most recent test marks a clear resolution of the tyre wear issues noted in late 2022, with only minor advisory cuts recorded across three tyres. These superficial sidewall cuts did not expose the ply or cords, indicating cosmetic damage rather than structural compromise. No mechanical or safety-critical defects have appeared in the last three consecutive annual tests, suggesting consistent upkeep and a well-maintained battery-electric drivetrain. The mileage accumulation pattern is notably low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 3,030 miles per year. Between the November 2022 test at 16,223 miles and the December 2023 test at 19,650 miles, the car covered approximately 3,427 miles in just over twelve months. The subsequent period from December 2023 to August 2024 saw only 2,927 miles added, and the final recorded interval from August 2024 to July 2025 added just 1,665 miles. This tapering usage pattern points to the vehicle spending extended periods stationary, a common trait with EVs used as secondary or occasional-use vehicles. Low mileage reduces wear on consumables but introduces its own risks, including tyre flat-spotting, brake disc surface corrosion, and potential battery degradation from prolonged static charge states. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the tyre condition, particularly the sidewalls where the advisory cuts were flagged in July 2025. Even minor cuts can propagate over time, especially on low-mileage vehicles where age-related rubber deterioration compounds the issue. Check the brake discs and calipers for surface corrosion, a frequent concern on EVs where regenerative braking reduces traditional friction use and can leave discs prone to glazing and pitting. Inspect the suspension bushes and dampers for perishing, as extended stationary periods can cause rubber components to dry out unevenly. Examine the underside for any signs of corrosion on subframes or mounting points, though the clean MOT record suggests no structural concerns have yet emerged. The battery health and charging behaviour warrant particular attention given the low annual mileage. Request a full State of Health report via the Tesla app or a diagnostic tool to verify capacity retention. A vehicle covering fewer than 2,000 miles annually risks incomplete thermal cycling of the battery pack, which can mask latent cell imbalances. The complete absence of advisories on the drivetrain, steering, and braking systems across five consecutive tests is reassuring, but the real-world test of how the car performs after a prolonged sit remains essential before purchase.