2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + Electric · RB05 SUN

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 3 July 2025—just 12 months prior to today—confirmed full compliance with all UK roadworthiness standards at 39,461 miles, with no defects or advisories recorded. This reflects a stable maintenance history over the past two tests, as the previous pass on 26 July 2024 at 28,797 miles also yielded no issues. The absence of recurring faults or advisories suggests the vehicle has been subjected to consistent, if not rigorous, servicing, though this does not preclude hidden wear or deferred maintenance beyond MOT scope. The clean record is particularly notable given the vehicle’s age and mileage, as Tesla Model 3s are prone to specific areas of concern—such as suspension bush deterioration, battery degradation indicators, and software-related drive unit faults—that often appear in later years. The recorded mileage of 39,461 miles over five years equates to an average of approximately 7,892 miles annually, a rate that aligns with typical usage patterns for this model. There are no significant gaps or abrupt spikes in mileage between tests, indicating steady ownership without prolonged periods of disuse or aggressive driving. However, the lack of intermediate service records means there is no direct evidence of proactive maintenance—such as suspension inspections, brake fluid changes, or battery health monitoring—outside the mandatory MOT cycle. This could imply either diligent owner oversight or, conversely, reliance on the MOT alone to identify failures, which is not a reliable long-term strategy for electric vehicles. A buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension components, particularly the rear coil springs and bushings, as these are common failure points in Tesla Model 3s and often go unnoticed until they compromise handling or alignment. The absence of MOT advisories does not rule out degraded suspension, so visual checks for uneven tyre wear, excessive play in the steering, or uneven ride height are essential. Brake systems, while not flagged in the MOT history, should be scrutinised for uneven pad thickness or warped discs, especially if the vehicle has been driven hard or in wet conditions. Additionally, the battery and drive unit warrant thorough attention—look for any warning lights on the infotainment screen, unusual noises during acceleration, or overheating indicators, as these can signal early-stage degradation that may not yet have triggered an MOT failure. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a detailed inspection of the underbody for corrosion—particularly around the wheel arches, subframe, and exhaust system—is critical. Electric vehicles are less prone to exhaust-related corrosion than petrol/diesel models, but standing water or road salt exposure can still compromise structural integrity. The lack of MOT advisories on structural components does not guarantee their current condition, so buyers should verify there are no hidden rust patches or weakened sections that could affect safety or handling. A professional diagnostic check of the Tesla’s software and drive unit health—beyond what an MOT covers—would further clarify whether any latent issues exist.