2020 Tesla Model 3 Performance AWD Electric · RAS 10

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 February 2026 resulted in a pass, and the prior test on 11 September 2024 also passed without any advisories. Although the current pass is accompanied by three advisory items, there is no recorded failure in the history supplied, and the trend across both recorded tests is one of stable roadworthiness with no deterioration. The emergence of advisories at the latest test does not undermine the pass result, but it does signal that certain wear-related items are now at a threshold worth monitoring. From a maintenance trend perspective, the record is consistent with a vehicle that has been kept in serviceable condition rather than one showing progressive neglect. Annual mileage of approximately 5,573 miles is notably low for a six-year-old vehicle, and this figure merits careful consideration. Low recorded mileage can reflect gentle use, but in many cases it also indicates that the vehicle has spent extended periods standing, which carries its own set of mechanical consequences. Electric drivetrains are largely unaffected by low running in terms of engine wear, but the ancillary systems including brakes, suspension, tyres, and underbody components all degrade with calendar age and inactivity as much as with distance covered. Standing calipers, surface corrosion on brake discs, and stiff suspension bushes are all common in low-mileage examples, so mileage alone should not be interpreted as low wear. On a physical inspection, the advisory concerning slight distortion on all four road wheels warrants close attention. Distortion of this nature can stem from kerb impact, pothole strikes, or general fatigue, and may produce steering vibration at speed, uneven tyre wear, or a degree of imbalance. Each wheel should be examined for visible buckling or run-out, and the tyres should be checked for irregular tread wear patterns which can indicate an out-of-true wheel. The nearside front inner sidewall damage advisory is also significant because sidewall impacts or cuts compromise structural integrity and can lead to sudden deflation; the tyre should be inspected for bulging, cracking, or exposed cords, and replacement considered regardless of remaining tread. The advisory regarding manufacturers undertrays obscuring inspection means that areas such as the subframe, suspension arms, and steering linkages cannot be fully assessed from beneath, so a raised inspection or removal of the trims for a thorough check would be prudent. Given the low annual mileage and the vehicle's age, additional calendar-based checks are advisable. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking even where tread depth remains adequate, as rubber compounds harden with age regardless of use. The 12V auxiliary battery, which supports systems such as the infotainment, lighting, and control modules, should be tested for state of health as batteries deteriorate from time rather than mileage alone. Brake discs and calipers should be inspected for surface oxidation, seized slider pins, and binding action after standing, and the brake fluid should be assessed for moisture content given its hygroscopic nature and typical biennial replacement intervals. Coolant systems for the battery and motor thermal management should be checked for fluid condition and any signs of leakage, and the tyre repair kit or spacesaver if equipped should be verified. A test drive should focus on listening for suspension knocks over uneven surfaces, monitoring for any brake judder on initial application, and confirming that all electronic systems power up and shut down cleanly without warning messages.