How Long Do Tesla Model 3 Last?

The Tesla Model 3 is one of the entry-level vehicles on Tesla’s lineup.

Don’t mistake it for a weak one because this car is a powerhouse. It can be driven for a long time without a recharge, which is a huge benefit of owning it.

Although it has already been established that an electric vehicle needs no maintenance, the next question that arises is, how long does a Tesla Model 3 last?

The number is a lot more than one would expect. The expected lifespan of the Model 3 is an eye watering 500000 miles, which is truly impressive.

So, what is the purpose of this article?

It will cover not only the lifespan of all major individual parts of the vehicle but also how it holds up against other vehicles in its class. It is recommended to read this article thoroughly.

So, without any further ado, let’s get straight into it!

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Tesla Model 3?

With the Tesla Model 3 being a purely electric vehicle, it does not need any maintenance at all.

There is no risk of formation of blockages or carbon buildup, which is actually pretty frequent with gasoline or diesel-based vehicles.

So, a Model 3 can last for at least 500000 miles without any major repairs required.

If it is driven with care, you can easily exceed the 750000-mile mark, which is more than enough for anyone.

If you want this number to be put into years, then it will last for more than 15 years easily.

Now, the question arises, if the vehicle does not require any maintenance, then how can its lifespan be extended?

That is going to be discussed in this article, so I suggest strapping in for the ride.

Does Tesla Model 3 Last Longer Than Other Similar Vehicles?

There are not many electric vehicles that can be compared with the Model 3. As companies are slowly shifting to electric vehicles, there is no proper competitor for the Model 3 out there.

Plus, when it comes to existing vehicles, the Model 3 outshines all of them in almost all regards.

With it lasting for more than 500000 miles, the entry level Tesla leaves its competitors in the dust.

With no drawbacks of traditional gasoline powered vehicles present in it, it does not seem fair to pit this vehicle with others.

Regardless, I have found three cars that come the closest to the Model 3, so they can be compared. Let’s see how this fight ends.

1. Tesla Model 3 Vs. Acura RLX Sport Hybrid

Unlike Tesla, a fully electric vehicle, the RLX Sport is a hybrid car. This means that it has an electric motor and a full-size gasoline engine too, which is a V6 in this case.

There are some places where the scores go up and down:

• Although the Model 3 has fewer complaints than other vehicles in its class, the RLX has none.
• This means there are no major or minor complaints that users have had over the years.
• In terms of reliability, there is no question that Tesla is more reliable.
• As it does not have an engine, the source of most issues is eliminated.
• The Model 3 can last for as long as 500000 miles. The RLX, on the other hand, can last for 200000 miles only. So, Tesla wins in this regard.

Compared to the Tesla, the RLX is more practical than it. But in terms of reliability and longevity, the Tesla Model 3 easily wins.

2. Tesla Model 3 Vs. Audi A3 Sportback E Tron

If you are looking to pit the Model 3 with a hybrid vehicle from a reputable brand for a fair comparison, then there is no better vehicle to pick than the Audi A3.

However, it is not an electric vehicle, which does look like it is a hybrid one due to its naming scheme. Both are excellent vehicles, but in most instances, Tesla takes the clear lead.

• In terms of complaints, the Audi A3 Sportback and the Tesla Model 3 go head to head. So, if you are looking for a winner over here, there is nothing to find.
• Tesla takes the lead in terms of reliability. Due to the absence of an engine, the vehicle will work flawlessly.
• Longevity is yet another place where Tesla takes the lead. It can last for 500000 miles, which is great.

The Tesla Model 3 is in another league compared to the E-Tron variant of the Audi A3. The reliability is much better, but it will last for a longer time than it.

3. Tesla Model 3 Vs. BMW 330e

Finally coming in third place is the 330e from BMW. This is yet another plug-in hybrid vehicle and is a great vehicle.

It is cheaper than Model 3 and has many features, all of which make it an extremely compelling option.

The Tesla beats the 330e in many regards, with the most major ones being:

• The 330e came into production in 2019 only. So, when talking about complaints, there is no fair comparison.
• As there are not enough reviews to conclude, a comparison cannot be done.
• I don’t want to get into the habit of repeating; I will say that Tesla wins clearly in the reliability section.
• The BMW can last for 250000 miles, which is decent. But the Tesla can go for half a million miles, which puts it in a whole other league.

As expected, Tesla is the one that takes the lead over here. It is better in all regards, and if you choose between it and the BMW, I would suggest going the all-electric route.

Related: Best Tesla Model 3 Floor Mats Review

Life Expectancy Of Tesla Model 3 Car Parts

We already know that vehicles have many parts which work in tandem to make driving them possible.

Well, the thing is, these parts have a limited lifespan, and they can be used for so long before they demand a replacement.

Well, in the case of the Tesla Model 3, the numbers will surprise you. From brake pads to the key fob, everything will be covered over here.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Brake Pads

There have been varying reports of people’s experiences regarding the average lifespan of the brake pads on a Model 3.

From users requiring replacements every 100000 miles to others that still have not had to replace them, this section of the article aims to provide you with a definite answer.

Well, how about a statement from none other than the CEO of the company, Elon Musk?

He came forward on Twitter to answer that the brake pads of a Tesla will not need a replacement for the lifespan of the car.

So, in the case of the Tesla, which can last anywhere from 500000 miles to 750000 miles, you can expect the brake pads to last just as long as that.

That is pretty impressive, and it also means that you will not have to worry about replacing them.

But if you are one of those users that use their vehicles extensively, then you may be hearing a squealing sound whenever the brakes are applied, then it means that the brake pads have worn out.

Although it is unlikely, the possibility is still there.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Battery

The batteries of a Tesla are what keep it apart from the competition. Well, you are in for a treat, regardless of which model of the Tesla you buy.

In the case of the Tesla Model 3, the batteries are expected to last anywhere from 300000 to 500000 miles. That is impressive.

When you convert this to other numbers, it means 1500 charge cycles. A charge cycle is the charging of the vehicle from 0 to 100 completely. So, 1500 is a great number.

The average driver in the US drives 14000 miles on an annual basis.

So, if that number were to be taken for a Tesla driver, then the batteries would be able to last for 21 years, which is more than two decades.

Now, realistically, they may not last this long, but it does give you a pretty good idea of what you might expect from the vehicle’s batteries.

Although these units are not expected to fail quickly, Tesla does offer a warranty on them. The battery warranty lasts for 8 years of 100000 miles.

The warranty is valid only if the batteries have a 70% charge capacity after the said time period.

The capacity drops by 10% every 100000 miles, so you should not have to worry too much.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Tires

Now, the tires of a Tesla Model 3 are nothing to boast about. They have a short lifespan, which makes them not viable in the long run.

Regardless of the tire you choose, it will wear down faster in an electric vehicle as compared to a traditional gasoline vehicle.

So, why is that?

Well, electric vehicles are heavier, which results in more force on the tires. This results in more friction, hence resulting in them wearing down quicker.

What are the numbers, then?

Well, if you want to go by Tesla’s own words, the owner’s manual recommends changing the tires every 10-12000 miles.

Now, that number is considerably less, and you might get more miles if you settle for more premium tires. But no tire will give you more than a maximum of 30000 miles.

That number is only possible if you buy the tires from Tesla. As these ones are specially equipped to last longer and sustain more load, they will be able to give you maximum mileage.

The tires are not cheap, though. Each tire carries a steep price of close to $300, which does not include taxes or labor costs.

Even with someone who has math as bad as mine, it can easily be guessed that the tire changing procedure will cost you easily more than $1000.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Transmission

The transmission on a Tesla Model 3 is pretty good. It is a single-speed transmission, which does not require the turning of many gears.

So, now the question arises, how long will the transmission system of the vehicle last? You are in for a treat with this one.

The company shared a tweet of one of its vehicles that crosses the million-mile mark. The image shared was of the drive system, and it looked like it was brand new.

There were no signs of wearing, which is something rarely seen nowadays.

Furthermore, the warranty of the drivetrain is for 100000 miles only, which is basically not needed in the case of this awesome transmission.

The only reason it has been so reliable is because of the fact that it has no moving parts.

So, if you want reliable hardware that does not need any maintenance and can last a long time, then you should pick the Tesla Model 3.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Spark Plugs

That is the thing about electric vehicles; they don’t need parts such as spark plugs or ignition coils. The reason for this is that these vehicles run solely on battery power only.

So, there is no need for igniting the fuel because there is no fuel! As there is nothing more to discuss, I will be moving on to the next vehicle part.

Average Lifespan Of Tesla Model 3 Key Fob

The key fob on the Tesla Model 3 is nothing special except for the fact that it is in the shape of a Tesla.

It has an expected lifespan of three to five years, which is typical for any vehicle key fob. As for the battery, it will last easily for more than a year.

So, you don’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon. Even if the key fob does run out of battery, you can always use your smartphone to open up the Tesla. Yes, that is possible too.

If you do manage to break the fob of your Tesla, a new one is costly. It will set you back by $175, which is a lot for a simple key.

But it does last a long time, so you should not have to worry about anything. Plus, it also has the automatic unlocking feature, which means you will not be wearing it down any time soon.

Related: Best Bike Racks For Tesla Model 3

What Is Good Mileage For A Used Tesla Model 3?

In the case of a model 3, or any other Tesla, mileage does not matter.

As it is an electric car, there are no moving parts that wear down over time.

Plus, the transmission has already been proven to last well over the million-mile mark without any issues.

So, now when it comes to a definitive answer, you can buy a Model 3, even if it has been driven for 150000 miles.

Unlike traditional vehicles that start to show their age after this point, the Model 3 will still have a long way to go. The only thing you need to worry about is the battery.

As the batteries have a degradation of 10% every 100000 miles, this is the only thing you should be aware of whenever buying a preowned Tesla.

How To Increase How Long Your Tesla Model 3 Lasts

Although it is different as compared to traditional vehicles, the Model 3 does still share some traits with its gasoline powered counterparts.

This statement especially holds true with the mileage and longevity of the vehicle.

There are some things you can do to make sure that you can squeeze every single mile from your electric beauty:

• Use autopilot for the highways.
• Maintain tire pressure at all times.
• Avoid stepping on the pedal frequently.
• Don’t charge 100% frequently.

These methods will not only improve the overall mileage of the car but will also make sure that every charge will be as efficient as possible.

This way, you will be able to get to longer distances without stopping for a recharge.

Problems That Limit The Life Of Your Tesla Model 3

As the electric car runs solely on batteries, there are many factors that can greatly impact the lifespan.

• The first one is temperature.
• As batteries don’t do well in high temperatures, the same is the case with the ones that are installed in a Tesla.
• Another thing that can hinder the longevity of the car is its use of it for racing purposes.
• Sudden braking and accelerating not only wear down the transmission faster but can also result in the brake pads getting useless quicker.
• So, if they are not changed in a timely manner, then the lifespan of the vehicle will be affected greatly.
• Another thing to note is that the batteries do degrade.

So, it is best not to overcharge them. It is actually recommended to keep the vehicle between a 20 and 80% charge, just like in a smartphone.

This will help in preserving health for a longer period of time.

What To Look For When Buying A Tesla Model 3

There are three main things you should take care of when buying a brand new Model 3.

As the company offers a plethora of features, it is important to make sure that you choose the correct ones.

• The first thing you should take a look at is the trim.
• There are three options here, with the first one being a standard one, the second one being a long-range one and the final one being a performance option.
• Their names are good enough for indicating what they offer.
• Another feature that the company offers is Tesla’s full self-driving capability. It is a hefty $10000 upgrade, but it does offer you a glimpse of the future.
• The car will not only be able to drive autonomously, but it will also have features such as auto parking and many other ones.
• It is a completely optional feature but is worth it.

Before you buy a Tesla, you should make sure that there are superchargers around town. Or else you will be stuck driving in your city, which makes owning this vehicle less practical.

So, you should have a good idea of where to find a supercharger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is The Tesla Model 3 A Reliable Car?

The Model 3 is, in fact, one of the most reliable cars on the market.

Once again, this is only due to the lack of moving parts and the lack of combustion chamber, which has proven to be pretty unreliable in a majority of the vehicles.

So, if you are worried about reliability that should be the least of your concern.

Q2. Does A Tesla Model 3 Have A Lot Of Problems?

Issues on the Model 3 have mainly been due to software bugs and glitches.

As the company has created a reliable vehicle, it does not dedicate the same amount of enthusiasm to the software.

Owners have complained about the vehicle having a blurry rear-view camera and the vehicle stopping without any reason.

Q3. Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Used Tesla Model 3?

Buying a used Model 3 is a great option. When you buy one, you will have to check a few things only rather than a whole list, which is the case with gasoline-powered vehicles.

So, if you are considering buying one that has been preowned, in order to save some cash, I would actually advise you to go on ahead.

It is a great decision, and there is no drawback in doing so.

Q4. Does Tesla Model 3 Rust Easily?

Although Tesla has tried its best to keep the Model 3 as different from the competitors as possible, maybe it’s not so different after all.

Owners have complained about rust issues, which were mainly prominent in the front and rear fenders. The bumper is also known to develop rust over time.

So, this is something to be aware of.

Q5. Is Tesla Model 3 Expensive To Maintain?

That’s the thing, a Model 3 is has a pretty low maintenance cost, mainly due to the fact that there are no parts that need to be maintained.

The transmission can last for over a million miles. There is no fuel used, which completely eliminates the problem of sludge buildup.

So, the maintenance cost is considerably low as compared to traditional vehicles.

Conclusion

If you were wondering about how long does a Tesla Model 3 last, I could assure you that you will not find a more detailed article out there.

From tips to improve the mileage to all common problems, everything has been covered in this article. Elon Musk has created a company that is not going to be forgotten.

The Model 3 is great, and it stands up pretty well as compared to other vehicles in the same class, even if they are not electric ones.

So, if you are wondering about owning one, then you should definitely consider moving forward with the decision.