The Tesla Model 3, in recent years an unprecedentedly popular car. In 2019, it will even be the best-selling car in the Netherlands, thanks in part to its low additional tax rate. With the all-electric Model 3, Tesla completely turned the car world on its head and it is impossible to imagine the Dutch roads without it. Worldwide, this car is also one of the best-selling EVs and has really introduced the general public to electric driving. Whether this went without a hitch, we list in this article!
Tesla Model 3 a good choice?
A quick internet search is enough to establish that the first models of the Tesla Model 3 had numerous teething problems. And the problems did not diminish in the years that followed. Whether it was faulty batteries or technical defects: there are quite a few Tesla owners who are regularly annoyed with their car.
The Tesla Model 3 was introduced to the public in late 2016 and went into mass production from July 2017. However, the market launch in Europe did not take place until several years later, in February 2019 to be precise. This had the advantage that most of the teething problems had already been fixed.
Still, many Model 3 owners complain about a car, so it is not for nothing that Tesla has revised the Model 3 several times in recent years. The first models are no longer available in their form, as not only the drive concept but also the battery capacity has changed. Besides the classic Tesla Model 3 with rear-wheel drive (Standard Range Plus), two other models are currently available. The Long Range and Performance, these have all-wheel drive and a larger battery capacity in most cases.
Is the Model 3's battery the weakest point?
The Tesla Model 3's battery is seen as the weakest point, as there have been repeated problems with it. However, the issue does not apply to all models in the same way, as different batteries are used depending on the year of manufacture, production country and model.
Early models and base versions from the US use batteries from LG Chem, while more powerful models use a larger battery from the Panasonic Corporation.
Of particular concern is CATL's lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which has been in base models imported from China since December 2020. It stands out due to deficits in range, low charge capacity and high self-discharge. This battery is also particularly sensitive to cold, which is noticeable when used in winter. Tesla has since been able to fix the problems with software updates.
Moreover, there are more frequent complaints about the battery; the problems often start with an error message on the display informing of reduced charging capacity. After that, the battery runs out quite quickly, and has to be replaced. Reports indicate that Tesla has since acted on this and provided battery replacement free of charge in most cases.
Points at the MOT inspection
The first Tesla Model 3s have now passed their MOT date and the first experiences are known. In general, the car passes the MOT without any problems, but it does appear that not all garages have the necessary knowledge and experience with the Tesla's technology. Among other things, the missing OBDII connection, which has only been in the footwell since mid-2020, causes discussions.
The heavy weight of the battery also affects the chassis, which is noticeable in the high wear of the wishbones and bearings.
Not infrequently, the lights also refuse to work; this was also a common problem with its bigger brother, the Tesla Model S.
And a typical problem for electric cars: the brakes are rarely used, leading to more rust. Even though braking performance does not necessarily suffer, it does not hurt to occasionally "brake" the brake discs by braking more forcefully. By doing so, you can prevent the brake discs/blocks from needing premature replacement. Tesla does recommend having the brake fluid checked and the interior filter replaced every two years. Lubricating the calipers every 20,000 km can also prevent problems.
Problems with faulty jacking points
Apparently, quite a few vehicles suffer from bent or cracked jack points. What Tesla initially downplayed as "cosmetic damage" could cause serious problems during an inspection. Indeed, lifting or jacking up a Tesla Model 3 can cause significant damage. This is because on the underside of the Tesla is the battery pack. If you lift it just like that with a car bridge or jack, the battery may just be damaged. A repair is costly because the entire battery module has to be replaced.
So it is worth looking under the vehicle before the next inspection. The damage to the jacking points apparently occurred during manufacture and cannot be attributed to improper use of a jacking point.
Control problems
Control problems have also been reported in several vehicles built in the second half of 2022 at the German plant in Brandenburg (and partly in China).
Motorists report that the steering showed "resistance in small increments", similar to the scroll wheel on a computer mouse. Restarting the vehicle also brought no solution. Initially, Tesla changed the steering gear on some car owners, which apparently did not improve the situation. Now, a software update should fix the unusual resistance on the steering wheel.
Experiences Tesla Model 3 owners
But what do the Model 3 drivers themselves say? That, of course, is often the best indicator. The most common criticisms mentioned to us were various defects on delivery, mainly paint damage and damage to the bottom plate. But scratches and dents on a new car are unfortunately not very uncommon.
However, the level of finish is not as high as you might expect when a new car is delivered. Scratches on the dashboard, incorrectly fitted steering wheels or falling gear lever cause annoyance. Fortunately, these are problems that are immediately obvious after delivery.
Problems that only surfaced later included the drive shafts breaking and various functions failing. The electronics occasionally cause concerns, including in terms of charging technology and range. In addition, owners complain about leaks in the interior, mostly in the boot or near the sunroof.
Model 3 recalls
Tesla has a voluntary recall issued to all Model 3 vehicles released between 2017 and 2020, as well as some Model S vehicles between 2014 and 2021. Tesla said that opening and closing the Model 3 trunk could damage the wiring harness that attaches the reversing camera, causing the camera to suddenly fail.
There were also production errors that caused several recalls. Among others, the brakes were not properly fixed and several chassis parts were incorrectly bolted.
Insufficient cooling of the processors could cause several vehicle systems to fail. Moreover, the speed unit was not displayed in (race) track mode, which could be remedied by updating the software.
Known weaknesses
- faulty battery, low charge & range
- high weight: increased wear of the chassis
- inspection: rusty brakes, faulty lights
- cracked/bent jacking points
- various defects on delivery of new car
Overall conclusion
As you have been able to read, a fair number of points have been mentioned but most of the problems occurred immediately upon (or soon after) purchase. Overall, most Tesla Model 3 drivers are very satisfied with their car.
Regardless of which variant one chooses, the Tesla's speed and driving comfort are praised. "It accelerates like the best and it brakes like a race car and goes through corners like a go-kart." About the Model 3's handling, drivers are almost unanimously positive. "Not to mention the AWD and handling. Yes, that really made me appreciate the Tesla."
Drivers are also fairly positive about the distances they can travel with the Model 3, especially when compared to other EVs. And any EV battery will degrade over time, that is a given and with Tesla it is no different. Yet after many kilometres on the counter, the capacity is still more than adequate. And with more and more (fast) charging points along the road, charging is a piece of cake!
Do you own a Model 3 or are you considering buying 1? Then feel free to share your experiences with us via the comment form below!
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