2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electricity · LD21 MPE

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD presents a picture of generally compliant roadworthiness across three consecutive MOTs, yet one notable advisory stands out against the background of clean passes. Passing the February 2026 MOT with only a minor stone chip on the windscreen and clearing the May 2025 and March 2024 tests indicates the vehicle has met statutory requirements repeatedly, but the 2024 MOT's advisory regarding front tyres worn close to legal limits on both front wheels introduces a material concern that requires immediate attention. This pattern suggests the car has sustained considerable operational stress despite maintaining regulatory compliance, and the high recorded mileage of 107,077 miles over its five-year lifetime amplifies questions about whether the wear patterns observed align with normal usage expectations for an electric vehicle of this generation. The mileage figure of 107,077 miles translates to approximately 21,415 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a vehicle of this age and implies either frequent driving or extensive periods of idling followed by sudden bursts of use. When examined alongside the two-month interval between the 2024 and 2026 MOTs, the data reveals a testing cadence that kept pace with the vehicle's consumption, but the tyre advisory from mid-2024 signals that the front tyres have likely experienced accelerated wear through their lifecycle. Combined with the total mileage, this trajectory raises the likelihood that critical consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and other wear-prone elements have seen increased strain, even if the MOT reports have not yet recorded them as failures. Focusing on the front tyres, the advisory 5.2.3(e) flags tyres worn close to legal limits and worn on edge on both front wheels, a condition that should be verified thoroughly during any test drive. Listen for any grinding noise when accelerating or decelerating, particularly on rough surfaces, and check that the tread depth remains adequate and that the contact patch is symmetrical. Given the high cumulative mileage, it is advisable to confirm that the tyres have sufficient remaining life and that the steering geometry has not been compromised by uneven wear, as this could affect handling and braking performance under load. Beyond the tyre advisory, the minor windscreen stone chip recorded in the February 2026 MOT is a cosmetic observation rather than a systemic failure, but it does suggest that the vehicle has encountered impacts or debris exposure that merit inspection of the surrounding frame and glass integrity. While the core drivetrain and safety systems have cleared each MOT without incident, the combination of elevated mileage and the front tyre condition means that a pre-purchase inspection should prioritise a detailed tyre assessment, a full suspension check including bushings and control arms, and verification that all warning indicators remain functional. If the tyre wear is severe or the front end shows signs of structural fatigue, the vehicle may require additional investment before it becomes a safe daily driver.