2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electric · ND71 XGV

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 17 March 2026, at 40,000 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. This represents a stable maintenance pattern over the past year, as the previous two tests—both in April 2025 at 35,737 miles—also passed without failings. The absence of advisories or recurring issues suggests the vehicle has been subject to consistent upkeep, though the lack of a 2024 test (a full year gap) warrants scrutiny of whether critical components like suspension bushes, brake calipers, or high-voltage battery health were addressed privately. The most recent test’s clean pass aligns with typical expectations for a low-mileage vehicle of this age, but the abrupt failure notice in April 2025—despite identical mileage—raises minor concern over potential administrative oversight rather than mechanical failure. The recorded mileage of 40,000 miles over five years equates to approximately 8,000 miles annually, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this class. There are no obvious signs of rapid depreciation or extended periods of inactivity, though the absence of MOT data for 2024 (a full 12-month gap) is unusual for a vehicle with such low mileage. Typically, such a pattern might indicate either infrequent use or deliberate avoidance of MOT testing, which could mask underlying issues. The jump from 35,737 to 40,000 miles between tests suggests the vehicle was driven regularly during that period, but the lack of intermediate checks means private maintenance records would be essential to verify whether components like tyres, brakes, or suspension were serviced between tests. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear items not routinely tested, such as the suspension’s coil springs and bushes—particularly the rear, where binding calipers are a common issue in electric vehicles. The battery’s state of health, including cooling system integrity and cell degradation, should be assessed, as these are not MOT-tested but critical for long-term reliability. Corrosion around wheel arches, subframes, and exhaust components should also be checked, given the vehicle’s age, even if the MOT record shows no rust-related failings. Finally, the brakes—while passing MOT—should be inspected for uneven wear or binding, as the 2025 failure notice (despite passing) hints at potential oversight. A thorough check of the high-voltage system’s connectors and wiring loom is advisable, as these are not MOT-checked but can pose safety risks if degraded.