Used Tesla Model 3: Pre-purchase checklist

The Tesla Model 3 has become a popular electric vehicle in Australia, offering strong performance, low running costs and plenty of technology. The Model 3 first arrived in Australia in 2019 and received a five-star ANCAP safety rating [1]. So, what makes the Model 3 a popular used car, and what should you check before you buy one?

What are the benefits of buying a used Tesla Model 3?

Save money: Buying a used Tesla Model 3 can be a good way to get an electric vehicle without paying the price of a new model. Like many new cars, Teslas can lose value as they get older, which can create opportunities for used-car buyers.

Lower running costs: An electric vehicle does not need petrol or diesel, and the Model 3 has fewer moving parts than a conventional petrol-powered car. This can help reduce some of the regular servicing and running costs associated with a traditional vehicle.

Performance: The Model 3 is known for its quick acceleration and smooth electric power. Depending on the version, buyers can choose from different power and range options, including Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range and Performance models.

Technology: The Model 3 has a large central touchscreen that controls many vehicle functions. It also includes a range of driver-assistance and safety features. The original Australian Model 3 achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with a 96% score for adult occupant protection and 94% for safety assist [1].

Practicality: Although the Model 3 is a medium-sized sedan, it has useful storage space with both front and rear luggage areas. The rear seats can also be folded to carry larger items.

What should I look for while buying a Used Tesla Model 3?

A vehicle history report can give you important information about the Tesla Model 3 you are considering.

As with any used car, you should check the vehicle’s age, mileage, condition and service history. With an electric vehicle, however, there are a few additional areas that deserve close attention.

Battery condition

The high-voltage battery is one of the most important parts of a used Tesla Model 3. Battery capacity naturally reduces over time, so ask the seller about the vehicle’s remaining range and battery condition.

A short test drive should give you an idea of how the vehicle performs. You should also check the estimated range shown on the screen and compare it with what would normally be expected for the model and battery.

Tesla provides a separate battery and drive unit warranty, although the exact coverage depends on the Model 3 version and delivery date. Current Tesla warranty information lists eight years of coverage for the battery and drive unit, with kilometre limits and minimum battery-capacity requirements depending on the model [2].

Charging

Check that the charging system works correctly before buying the vehicle.

If possible, test the car with its charging equipment and make sure the charging port operates normally. Ask the seller which charging cables or adapters are included with the car.

You should also check whether the vehicle has mainly been charged at home or regularly used fast chargers. The charging history alone does not tell you the complete condition of the battery, but it can be useful information when assessing the car.

Tyres and suspension

Check all four tyres for uneven wear, damage and adequate tread.

You should also listen for unusual noises from the suspension during the test drive. Some Model 3 vehicles have had reports of front suspension noises and wear, so pay attention to knocking, squeaking or unusual steering behaviour [3].

Make sure the car drives straight and that the steering feels normal.

Interior and touchscreen

The central touchscreen controls many important functions in a Tesla, so check that it works properly.

Look for:

• Slow or unresponsive touchscreen functions
• Screen restarting or going blank
• Problems with the reversing camera
• Climate-control problems
• Bluetooth and connectivity issues
• Fault messages or warning lights
• Damaged seats or interior trim

The Australian Government has recorded recalls involving Model 3 vehicles where a software issue could cause the central screen to lag or become blank during fast charging [4].

Body and accident damage

Carefully inspect the body panels for scratches, dents, mismatched paint and signs of previous repairs.

Tesla vehicles can be expensive to repair after an accident, so don’t rely only on how good the car looks from the outside.

Check the:

• Front and rear bumpers
• Doors and guards
• Bonnet and boot
• Windscreen and windows
• Underbody
• Wheels and suspension
• Charging port

A history check can also help identify whether the vehicle has previously been recorded as written off or stolen.

Check the Tesla’s recalls

Tesla Model 3 vehicles have been subject to recalls in Australia.

For example, a recall affecting certain 2019–2021 Model 3 vehicles related to front suspension lateral link bolts that may not have been tightened correctly [5]. Another recall affecting certain 2021–2022 Model 3 vehicles involved the infotainment computer overheating during fast charging [4].

Before buying, check the vehicle’s VIN against Tesla’s recall database and ask the seller whether all recall work has been completed. Tesla provides a VIN recall search where you can enter the vehicle’s 17-digit VIN and check for open safety recalls [6].

Check the warranty

Don’t assume that a used Tesla has the same warranty coverage as a new Tesla.

Ask the seller for the original purchase or delivery information and check the remaining vehicle, battery and drive-unit warranty.

Tesla’s current Australian warranty information states that battery and drive-unit coverage varies by Model 3 version. For some current Model 3 variants, coverage is eight years or 160,000 km, while other variants have an eight-year or 192,000 km limit [2].

Always check the warranty for the exact vehicle you are buying rather than relying on a general warranty period.

What else should I check before buying a used Tesla Model 3?

Before handing over your money, check:

• VIN
• Registration
• Odometer reading
• Vehicle history
• Finance owing
• Written-off status
• Stolen status
• Accident or repair history
• Battery condition
• Charging system
• Tyres
• Brakes
• Suspension
• Steering
• Lights
• Touchscreen
• Reversing camera
• Warning messages
• Recall status
• Remaining warranty
• Included charging cables and accessories

It is also a good idea to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic or EV specialist before you buy it.

How can I check the history of a used Tesla Model 3?

Buying a used Tesla Model 3 is not just about checking the battery and taking the car for a test drive. A physical inspection can identify mechanical, body or electrical problems, but it cannot tell you everything about the vehicle’s past.

A vehicle history check can help identify important information such as whether there is finance owing on the vehicle, whether it has been reported stolen or written off, and other available registration and history information.

A PPSR search, formaly known as REVS check, is particularly important when buying a used vehicle in Australia because it can identify whether a security interest has been registered against the vehicle.

Checking the vehicle history before you buy can help you make a more informed decision and reduce the risk of buying a Tesla Model 3 with an expensive hidden problem.

Do your checks, inspect the car carefully and check its history before you buy. A little research can give you much greater peace of mind when buying a used Tesla Model 3.

References

1. ANCAP, Tesla Model 3 Safety Rating, 2019. The original Australian Model 3 received a five-star ANCAP rating, including 96% adult occupant protection and 94% safety assist.
2. Tesla Australia, Vehicle Warranty. Battery and drive-unit warranty periods and kilometre limits vary by Model 3 version.
3. JPI Report, Tesla Model 3 & Model Y Common Problems in Australia. Common inspection points include front control-arm noise, air-conditioning/heat-pump issues, tyre wear and battery condition.
4. Australian Government, Vehicle Recalls – Tesla Model 3 2021–2022, REC-005441.
5. Australian Government, Vehicle Recalls – Tesla Model 3 2019–2021, REC-005008.
6. Tesla Australia, VIN Recall Search. Tesla allows owners and buyers to check open safety recalls using the vehicle’s 17-digit VIN.

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