2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electric · MW71 HTX

The DVSA history for this 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is exceptionally clean, with two consecutive pass certificates on file and no advisories or failures recorded. The most recent test on 10 February 2026 returned a pass with no defects noted, following an identical clean result twelve months earlier. There is no pattern of recurring wear items, structural corrosion, brake component deterioration, or suspension issues flagged across the testing record, which presents a reassuring baseline of roadworthiness for a five-year-old EV of this type. With 25,375 miles accumulated over roughly five years, the vehicle is running at approximately 5,075 miles per year, which sits well below the typical annual mileage for a modern saloon used as a daily driver. This lower-than-average accumulation can stem from genuine light use, commuter-only running, or extended periods off the road, and it has direct mechanical consequences worth weighing. Reduced mileage on an electric vehicle tends to preserve the high-voltage battery's state of health and limits wear on the tyres, brakes, and underbody components, but it can also mean prolonged standing which allows brake discs to corrode, tyres to develop flat spots or sidewall cracking, and undertray fastenings to seize. The fact that the MOT record shows no defect entries in this area suggests these issues have not yet become significant enough to be flagged, but they remain worth inspecting given the low usage pattern. From a buyer inspection standpoint, the absence of recorded advisories means there are no specific components with a known wear trajectory, so attention should shift to the areas most commonly affected on a Tesla Model 3 of this vintage. On the test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the lower control arms, track rods, and anti-roll bar drop links, as these are known wear items on early Model 3 production. Check for any pulling to one side under acceleration or braking, which could indicate uneven brake disc wear or a sticking caliper, the latter being common on vehicles that have seen limited use and may have developed surface corrosion on the discs. Inspect the tyres closely for uneven shoulder wear, which often points to misalignment of the rear suspension geometry, and verify that the factory-fitted Michelin or Hankook items have not aged out, as tyres older than five years from their DOT manufacture date should be replaced regardless of remaining tread depth. Given the EV drivetrain, a prospective buyer should also ensure the 12V auxiliary battery, which powers systems including the onboard computers and door latches, has been recently replaced or tested, as these units typically require renewal every three to four years and a failure can leave the vehicle unable to start or access drive mode. During the test drive, monitor the central touchscreen for any warning messages relating to the high-voltage battery, regenerative braking faults, or driver assistance systems, and verify that the climate control, charging port release, and mobile app connectivity all function correctly. Finally, a pre-purchase inspection at a Tesla-approved bodyshop or independent EV specialist is strongly recommended to assess the underbody for any signs of impact damage or corrosion around the rear subframe mounting points, neither of which would necessarily appear in the MOT data but could affect long-term integrity.