TESLA MODEL 3 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 101 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
91%
Total Tests (2024)
101
Avg Mileage
52,683 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£945
Is the 2021 TESLA MODEL 3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 9 points above the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 91% of TESLA MODEL 3s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 101 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 52,683 miles.
How does the 2021 TESLA MODEL 3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 TESLA MODEL 3 has 52,683 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a TESLA MODEL 3?
The most reliable year is the 2023 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2020 model has the lowest at 80%. The 2021 sits between the two at 91%.
How much does a 2021 TESLA MODEL 3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
TESLA MODEL 3 by Year
Checking a specific TESLA MODEL 3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 TESLA MODEL 3
The 2021 TESLA MODEL 3 is a electric with a 0cc electric engine. 101 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 52,683 miles at 3 years old, TESLA MODEL 3 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
What does it cost to own a 2021 TESLA MODEL 3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £945 (£79/month), broken down as £500 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 91% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
TESLA MODEL 3 Reliability Trend
Newer TESLA MODEL 3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 TESLA MODEL 3
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2023 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2021 TESLA MODEL 3
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable electric cars with similar engines:
- TESLA MODEL 3 LONG RANGE AWD (2021) 88% pass rate (-3%) from 39,444 tests
- JAGUAR I-PACE (2020) 96% pass rate (+5%) from 18,488 tests
- TESLA MODEL 3 STANDARD RANGE + (2021) 88% pass rate (-3%) from 15,258 tests
- TESLA MODEL 3 PERFORMANCE AWD (2020) 87% pass rate (-4%) from 12,320 tests