2017 Tesla Model S Electricity · LF67 WDK

The Tesla Model S in question has maintained a clean MOT record in its most recent test on 16 January 2026 at 167,319 miles, with no defects recorded—a positive indicator of its current roadworthiness. However, the trend preceding this is concerning. Over the past three annual tests, the vehicle exhibited a consistent pattern of brake pad wear , with all four corners flagged as "wearing thin" in January 2025, despite only the rear pads being noted in 2024. This suggests either aggressive driving habits or a failure to address brake maintenance promptly. The January 2023 test also revealed front tyres worn close to the legal limit , a fault that was not repeated in later tests, implying they were replaced shortly after. The absence of structural, suspension, or exhaust-related advisories in recent years is reassuring, but the recurring brake issues demand closer scrutiny before purchase. The mileage accumulation is notably high for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 18,591 miles per year —well above the UK fleet average for a nine-year-old car. This rapid mileage buildup, particularly between January 2024 (102,503 miles) and January 2025 (131,110 miles), indicates either frequent long-distance use or a period of heavy reliance on the vehicle. The gap between the 2022 test (51,689 miles) and 2023 test (78,307 miles) also shows a sharp increase, suggesting a shift in usage patterns. Such mileage levels would naturally accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, which aligns with the MOT history observed. Given the history, a prospective buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the brake system , including the condition of the discs, calipers, and hydraulic lines, as the repeated "wearing thin" advisories may mask deeper issues such as glazing or uneven wear. The suspension should be checked for bushings, coil springs, and strut integrity , particularly given the high mileage, as these components are prone to fatigue under heavy use. While the MOT record shows no structural corrosion or major advisories, a thorough examination of the undercarriage and wheel arches is advisable, as Tesla’s low-slung chassis can be vulnerable to stone chipping or minor corrosion in high-mileage examples. Finally, verifying the battery health and cooling system —critical for electric vehicles—would be prudent, as these are not routinely inspected during MOTs but can degrade significantly over time with high mileage.