Motoring Today

Tesla Model 3 MOT reliability

Reliability from 39 Tesla Model 3 cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons, and how much MOT life is left.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Tesla Model 3 at MOT?

Across 7 Tesla Model 3 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 43%. 71% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 11 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are tyres, visibility (windscreen & wipers) and suspension, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
43%
Valid MOT
5 / 7
Median MOT left
11 mo
Top failure
Tyres

Motoring Today currently lists 7 Tesla Model 3s, with prices starting from £12,995, or a representative £290 per month on finance. Based on 690 real UK MOT tests, the Tesla Model 3 achieved a national DVSA MOT pass rate of 93.48%. While this is a strong pass rate, it's worth noting the most common reasons for failure. Tyres top the list, accounting for 71% of all failures, followed by Lighting & electrical at 21%, and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) at 7%. For a used car buyer, these failure patterns highlight key areas for pre-purchase inspection. High tyre failure rates mean prospective owners should thoroughly check tyre tread depth, condition, and inflation on all four wheels, as well as looking for signs of uneven wear. Similarly, with lighting and visibility issues being prevalent, ensure all exterior lights, indicators, and interior warning lamps function correctly, and that the windscreen is free from chips or cracks, with wipers effectively clearing the glass. It is important to remember that an MOT pass rate reflects the condition of vehicles presented for test, not necessarily their lifetime reliability. Most MOT failures, particularly common ones like tyres and lighting, often correlate with a car's age, mileage, and owner maintenance habits rather than inherent design flaws of the model. Finance is subject to status.

43First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
5 / 7
71% road-ready
Median MOT left
11 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Tesla Model 3

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 39 Tesla Model 3 cars with DVSA test history in our stock (29 recorded failure items, 21 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Tyres2483%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)310%
Suspension13%
Brakes13%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Tesla Model 3 cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Tesla Model 3?
Based on 690 real national DVSA MOT tests, the Tesla Model 3 has an impressive pass rate of 93.48%.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Tesla Model 3?
The most common failure categories are Tyres (71%), Lighting & electrical (21%), and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) (7%).
Is the Tesla Model 3 reliable?
An MOT pass rate reflects cars presented for test, not lifetime reliability, and failures often cluster with age and neglect, but the Model 3's high pass rate is a positive indicator.
What should I check before buying a used Tesla Model 3?
Focus on areas highlighted by common MOT failures: inspect the tyres for wear, check all lights and electrical functions, and ensure the windscreen and wipers are in good condition.
How many used Tesla Model 3s are for sale and what's the cheapest price?
There are 8 Tesla Model 3s currently for sale, with prices starting from £12,800 or a representative example finance payment of £324 per month, subject to status. This data was updated on 6 October 2026.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Tesla Model 3?
Across 39 Tesla Model 3 cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are tyres, visibility (windscreen & wipers) and suspension (tyres account for 83% of recorded failures).

More Tesla Model 3 resources