2019 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electric · LC69 PYA

The latest MOT test on 2025-10-11 returned a clean pass, but the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories and one dangerous failure, indicating potential underlying issues with tyre wear management and possibly suspension or alignment influences. While the 2022 test marked the only outright failure, the subsequent MOTs show persistent tyre wear close to or at legal limits, with multiple instances of edge wear and tread depth concerns, particularly on the front tyres. The advisories from 2023 and 2024—including nearside front tyre wear near the limit and a minor cut on the nearside rear tyre—suggest a lack of consistent tyre rotation or uneven loading, which could stem from misaligned wheels, incorrect tyre pressure, or suspension component wear. The fact that the 2022 failure was classified as dangerous highlights the severity of exposed tyre cords and insufficient tread depth, underscoring the importance of addressing these issues promptly to prevent accidents and ensure road safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 66,063 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,438 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a seven-year-old car of this model. Such mileage typically reflects a balance between regular use and periods of inactivity, though the absence of a service history or detailed maintenance records makes it difficult to determine whether the wear patterns align with normal usage or if there were periods of prolonged standing that accelerated certain failures. Prolonged idling can exacerbate issues like brake disc corrosion, suspension binding, or fluid degradation, particularly in the front suspension where standing corrosion is more likely to develop. Additionally, if the vehicle was driven heavily in wet or rough conditions, this could have contributed to accelerated tyre wear and potential suspension damage. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the single dangerous failure, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the front and rear sets for signs of uneven wear, tread depth consistency, and any visible damage such as cuts or cord exposure. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front tyres, such as clunking or squealing, which could indicate misalignment, incorrect tyre pressure, or suspension component wear. Check for any lateral movement or binding in the front tyres when cornering or braking, which may suggest warped discs or binding calipers. The front tyres should also be visually inspected for signs of dry rot or sidewall cracking, as this can weaken the tyre structure and lead to sudden failure. If the tyres are nearing the legal limit or show significant uneven wear, replacement should be prioritised to avoid further safety risks. For the suspension and other mechanical systems, the buyer should examine the front suspension for signs of corrosion, particularly around the strut mounts and control arms, as standing can accelerate rusting. Inspect the coil springs and suspension bushes for excessive play or cracks, which could lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps. The brakes should be checked for any signs of corrosion on the discs, particularly on the nearside where standing is more likely to occur, and for binding or excessive heat discoloration. The brake pads should be inspected for thickness and wear, with a focus on the front pads given their higher usage. Additionally, the vehicle’s battery health should be assessed, as prolonged standing can drain the 12V system, leading to issues with electrical components or warning lights. Finally, since the vehicle is seven years old, the buyer should verify that all fluids—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—have been serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as fluid degradation over time can compromise performance and safety. If the MOT history shows no fluid advisories, a comprehensive fluid check and potential top-up should be part of the initial inspection.