2016 Tesla Model S Electric · TE51 ADE

A consistent and uninterrupted record of DVSA roadworthiness is the defining feature of this 2016 Tesla Model S. Across five consecutive tests, the most recent being the pass on 16 March 2026 with no defects recorded, the vehicle has cleared every MOT without advisories or failures, and the trend across the five-year testing window is one of stable, unblemished compliance. The absence of any corrosion advisories on the body, undercarriage, or suspension components is particularly significant for a ten-year-old premium saloon, given the susceptibility of similar-era luxury vehicles to subframe and brake-line deterioration in the UK climate. With no recorded defects of any kind, the MOT history alone provides no objective basis for concern regarding statutory mechanical condition. The usage profile of this Model S aligns closely with typical expectations for a vehicle of its age. At 74,755 miles against ten years on the road, the annual accumulation rate of approximately 7,476 miles is a mainstream figure, neither suggesting long-term standing nor heavy commercial-style use. The annual mileage increments between tests are also consistent and modest, indicating a steady, year-round running pattern rather than extended periods off the road followed by a sudden spike in distance covered. For an electric powertrain, this kind of regular but moderate use is mechanically favourable, as it avoids both the deep discharge cycles associated with low-mileage storage and the elevated thermal loading that can accompany sustained high-mileage motorway running. Although the MOT record is entirely clean, a prospective buyer should still execute a focused physical and dynamic inspection, as EV-specific and chassis-related items fall largely outside standard DVSA test scope. On a test drive, listen carefully for any suspension noise over uneven surfaces, including clunks, knocks, or creaks from the front and rear suspension assemblies, as air suspension components, control arm bushes, and anti-roll bar linkages on the Model S are known wear points that would not always trigger an MOT failure but can present as audible concerns. Steering should feel precise and free from vibration or pulling, while the brake pedal should feel firm, as regenerative braking systems can lead to seized calipers and corroded discs on Teslas due to infrequent mechanical brake application. Inspect the brake discs visually for any lipping or rust around the inner and outer edges. Body and underside inspection should focus on areas commonly susceptible on this platform, including the front and rear subframe mounting points, the aluminium suspension components, and the high-voltage cable routing underneath the vehicle. Even with a clean MOT record, lifting the vehicle or carrying out a thorough undertray inspection at a specialist would be prudent to identify any emerging corrosion or weeping from suspension air struts. Confirm that the charging port, onboard charger, and drive units are functioning correctly, and request a full Tesla service history to verify software updates, battery health diagnostics, and any replacement of the high-voltage battery or drive units. Given the ten-year age threshold, a recent 12V auxiliary battery replacement is also a sensible confirmation, as failure of the low-voltage system can immobilise the vehicle entirely despite the main traction battery being fully charged.