2018 Tesla Model S Electricity · MW18 DSU

The Tesla Model S in question has demonstrated a clear improvement in roadworthiness over the past two MOT cycles, with the most recent test on 27 April 2026 at 109,382 miles showing no defects whatsoever. This represents a significant turnaround from the 2024 failures, where binding and fluctuating front brake performance, alongside worn suspension ball joints, caused repeated test failures. The absence of any advisories or defects in the last two MOTs suggests that the previous issues were addressed effectively, though the underlying cause—whether mechanical wear, software calibration, or component quality—remains unclear without further context. That said, the vehicle’s current compliance does not guarantee long-term reliability, particularly given its high annual mileage and the history of brake and suspension concerns. The mileage accumulation is notably aggressive for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 13,673 miles per year, which is well above the typical annual usage for a premium electric vehicle. The gap between the 2023 pass (85,276 miles) and the first 2024 failure (95,196 miles) covers just 9,920 miles over a year, indicating either sustained heavy use or a period of inactivity followed by rapid driving. The fact that the car failed twice within days in May 2024—at almost identical mileages (95,196 and 95,211)—implies the issues were persistent rather than intermittent, and the subsequent resolution suggests a targeted repair effort. The most recent MOT, just three months prior to this evaluation, confirms the vehicle is currently meeting all legal standards, but the mileage trend raises questions about the longevity of components under such usage. For a prospective buyer, the front brake system and suspension components are the primary areas demanding immediate scrutiny. The 2024 failures explicitly cited fluctuating brake performance on the nearside front circuit, which could indicate binding calipers, contaminated brake fluid, or software-related brake modulation issues—common in EVs where regenerative braking interacts with friction braking. The worn, pitted front brake discs, while not critically weakened, suggest uneven braking force distribution and should be inspected for thickness and surface condition. The suspension ball joints with slight play in both front lower arms, though not yet at a critical failure point, warrant a hands-on check for excessive wear or noise under cornering, as ball joint degradation can lead to uneven tyre wear or handling instability. Given the vehicle’s high mileage, a thorough inspection of tyre condition, wheel alignment, and any signs of premature wear on bushings or control arm mounts would also be prudent. The absence of corrosion-related advisories is a positive indicator, but structural integrity checks remain essential for a vehicle of this age and usage profile.