A 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range, formerly used as a taxi in the United Kingdom, has accumulated 238,000 miles in four years while retaining its original battery and motor. Owners report minimal breakdowns and significant savings on fuel compared to a gas-powered equivalent. This example highlights improvements in Tesla's reliability for post-2021 models, despite earlier concerns from Consumer Reports.
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range, built in 2021, served as a taxi in the United Kingdom and clocked 238,000 miles over four years. According to a detailed account from RSymons, the vehicle has never broken down and maintains its original high-voltage battery at 85.5% state of health, original rear electric motor, brakes, bodywork, and windows. The interior remains in good condition, aside from a worn steering wheel.
Maintenance has been routine, with the car on its seventh set of tires. Repairs included replacing several bushes, such as rear motor mounts, and a pedestrian warning sound speaker that failed at 232,000 miles. Total costs for maintenance and repairs amount to $7,566 (£5,603), covering tires, wiper blades, cabin air filters, suspension components, and labor.
Energy consumption totaled 92.6 megawatt-hours, including 28.2 MWh from regenerative braking, with 64,422 kilowatt-hours of paid electricity at an average U.S. rate of $0.17 per kWh, equating to $10,951 in charging costs—or $0.04 per mile. The car achieved an efficiency of 4.2 miles per kWh. Compared to a 2021 BMW 330i with 30 mpg efficiency and $3.70 per gallon premium gas, fuel costs would reach $29,353 for the same mileage, making the Tesla's total ownership cost $18,715, even including maintenance.
This case aligns with Consumer Reports' findings on used Tesla EVs from 2016-2021 models, which ranked lowest in reliability with a score of 31, based on over 140,000 owner-reported issues in areas like brakes, transmissions, and EV batteries. However, CR noted significant improvements starting in 2021, with Tesla ranking ninth in new-car reliability. The Model 3 was deemed the most reliable electric car in their survey. Steven Elek, CR's auto data analytics leader, attributed stronger brands like Lexus and Toyota (scores 77 and 73) to conservative redesigns that ensure longevity.
