2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD Electric · SC21 DFU

The most recent MOT on 15 May 2026 recorded a pass overall but flagged a failure for the off‑side headlamp being aimed too low, a defect that must be rectified before the next test. Apart from that isolated issue the vehicle has passed its previous two annual tests without any recorded defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance record with only a minor regression in lighting alignment this year. At five years old the Model 3 has logged 22,920 miles, averaging just under 4,600 miles per annum – well below the typical UK usage pattern for a family saloon. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be benign for wear‑items but may conceal age‑related degradation such as rubber hardening, battery electrolyte loss, or corrosion on hidden components. There are no abrupt spikes in mileage that would suggest aggressive driving or excessive load, so the mechanical wear on suspension bushings, coil springs and brake rotors is likely to be modest. The headlamp aim defect should be inspected and corrected by a qualified electrician or body shop; an incorrectly aimed beam can reduce night‑time visibility and may cause glare to oncoming traffic. While the vehicle is otherwise clear, the 2024 advisory about a central rear tyre containing a nail warrants a thorough tyre inspection – check the tyre sidewall and tread for any embedded foreign objects, puncture damage or uneven wear that could indicate a slow leak. On a test drive listen for any abnormal road noise that could hint at a compromised tyre or wheel bearing, and verify that the vehicle’s automatic emergency braking and lane‑keeping assist systems respond correctly, as these rely on calibrated sensor arrays that can be affected by tyre condition. Given the low mileage and the vehicle’s electric power‑train, the buyer should focus on age‑related items rather than wear‑related ones. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially on the front tyres which bear the majority of steering loads. Inspect the under‑carriage for any signs of corrosion on the aluminium body panels, battery pack mounts and suspension components, as prolonged standing can promote rust in hidden areas. Verify the health of the 12 V auxiliary battery and the main high‑voltage pack – a healthy pack should hold charge and show no error codes on the onboard diagnostics display. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular software updates and coolant flushes for the thermal management system, as these are time‑based maintenance items that are critical to long‑term reliability even on a low‑kilometre vehicle.