Motoring Today

Tesla Model 3 MOT reliability

Reliability from 21 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 5 Tesla Model 3 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 87%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 10 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
87%
Valid MOT
5 / 5
Median MOT left
10 mo
Top failure
Tyres

With 4 Tesla Model 3s currently available on Motoring Today, this popular electric saloon exhibits a strong national DVSA MOT pass rate of 93.48% based on 690 real UK tests. While this figure reflects cars presented for their MOT, it provides a useful snapshot for potential buyers. The most common failure categories for the Model 3 are led by Tyres, accounting for 71% of failures, followed by Lighting & electrical at 21%, and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) at 7%. For someone considering a used Model 3, these failure points offer clear inspection priorities. High tyre failure rates suggest checking tread depth, even wear, and overall condition of all four tyres is paramount. Issues with 'Lighting & electrical' could indicate anything from blown bulbs to more complex wiring problems, so ensuring all exterior lights, indicators, and interior electrics function correctly is advisable. 'Visibility' failures typically relate to worn wiper blades or damage to the windscreen, both easily verifiable before purchase. It's important to remember that an MOT pass rate reflects the condition of vehicles at the time of testing, not necessarily lifetime reliability, and failures often cluster with a car's age, mileage, and maintenance history, rather than the badge itself. The cheapest Tesla Model 3 starts from £13,995, or a representative monthly finance payment of £313, available to browse now on Motoring Today, complete with full MOT histories.

87First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
5 / 5
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
10 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 21 Tesla Model 3 cars with DVSA test history in our stock (11 recorded failure items, 4 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Tyres655%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)327%
Suspension19%
Brakes19%

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 national DVSA MOT tests, the Tesla Model 3 has a pass rate of 93.48%.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Tesla Model 3?
The most frequent MOT failure categories for the Tesla Model 3 are Tyres (71%), Lighting & electrical (21%), and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) (7%).
Is the Tesla Model 3 reliable?
While the MOT pass rate is strong, this reflects cars presented for test, not overall lifetime reliability. Failures often become more common with a vehicle's age and reduced maintenance.
What should I check before buying a used Tesla Model 3?
Focus your pre-purchase checks on areas prone to MOT failure, such as tyre condition, all lighting and electrical components, and the windscreen and wiper operation.
How many used Tesla Model 3s are currently for sale and what is the cheapest price?
There are currently 5 Tesla Model 3s for sale, with the cheapest model starting from £13,595. A representative finance example shows a monthly cost of £307, subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Tesla Model 3?
Across 21 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 55% of recorded failures).

More Tesla Model 3 resources