2020 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · ML61 LAL

A clean and unblemished MOT history places this Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD in a strong mechanical standing for a prospective buyer, with no advisories, defects, or component failures recorded across any of its tests. The vehicle passed its most recent assessment on 9 February 2026 with a clean sheet, and the prior test on 15 September 2025 also returned no recorded defects, following an earlier failure just three days prior on 12 September 2025 that likewise recorded no defects, suggesting the earlier outcome was likely an administrative or vehicle presentation issue rather than a genuine mechanical concern. The overall trend is one of consistent roadworthiness compliance, with three further clean passes in September 2023 and September 2024 reinforcing a stable pattern of maintenance. The absence of recurring advisories on suspension, braking, or corrosion components indicates the vehicle has not yet developed the typical wear issues that often surface on cars of this age and mileage bracket. With a recorded mileage of 72,545 miles over approximately six years, this Model 3 has covered around 12,091 miles per year, which is notably high for its age and points to consistent, heavy use rather than sporadic commuting. The absence of significant gaps between annual tests suggests the vehicle has remained in active service throughout its life, with mileage accumulation broadly steady rather than clustered in short bursts. Mechanically, this usage profile means greater wear on consumable items such as tyres, brake discs and pads, and suspension bushes and linkages, along with elevated stress on the dual-motor drivetrain and the high-voltage battery pack, all of which face higher thermal and mechanical loading under sustained use. Electric vehicles do benefit from reduced wear on items like clutches and gearboxes, but the chassis components still endure the same punishment as a conventionally powered equivalent. Given the clean MOT record, there are no specific defect areas to target, but the high annual mileage warrants close attention to the suspension system on a test drive. Listen for any knocking or clonking noises from the front and rear suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, as worn control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, or top mount bearings are common on higher-mileage Model 3s. Pay particular attention to steering response, checking for any vagueness, knocking through the wheel, or uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension geometry. The brake pedal should feel firm and progressive, with no juddering under braking that might suggest warped front or rear discs, a known concern on heavier EVs that rely heavily on friction braking despite their regenerative systems. Finally, while the MOT record does not flag any tyre or brake-related advisories, the high-mileage usage should prompt a careful physical inspection of tyre tread depth, sidewall condition, and manufacturing date stamps, as tyres on a heavily used Model 3 typically require replacement every 20,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving style and wheel specification. Check for uneven inner or outer edge wear, which can be a tell-tale sign of suspension geometry problems or misalignment. Inspect all four wheels for any kerbing damage, as Tesla wheels are particularly vulnerable to curb rash. Under the vehicle, look for any signs of fluid leaks from the rear motor area or around the high-voltage orange cabling routing, and verify that the 12V auxiliary battery has been recently replaced, as failure of this component is a known issue on Model 3 vehicles of this age and can cause a variety of electrical faults even if unrelated to the main drive battery.