Figure 1: My wife and me taking delivery on our 2019 Tesla Model 3 Long Range at the Tesla Salt Lake City delivery center on October 21, 2019.
Five years have passed since we took delivery of our dual-motor Tesla Model 3 Long Range on October 21, 2019 (as pictured above on delivery day). As of October 14, 2024, our odometer is approaching 139,000 miles, registering ~138,856 miles. This milestone provides a great opportunity to reflect on the ownership experience, particularly concerning maintenance, reliability, and crucially, the Range For A Tesla Model 3 after significant use. This review will detail my maintenance and repair costs over these five years, offering insights into the long-term ownership of a Tesla Model 3. It serves as a complementary piece to another 5-year Model 3 review, offering a broader perspective on Tesla Model 3 reliability and cost expectations over time. This analysis excludes fuel costs (electricity), interest, insurance, and resale value to focus purely on maintenance and operational aspects.
The aesthetic appeal of the Model 3 has held up reasonably well. The front fascia design remains a personal favorite, especially without the distraction of a front license plate, which I opted to forgo to maintain its clean lines. However, the flat white surface is prone to accumulating bug splatter, particularly in Wisconsin’s humid climate. Some minor paint chips, likely from insect impacts, are also present. While a front-end bra could have prevented these, I found them aesthetically unappealing. A relatively inexpensive front fascia replacement could restore a pristine look. Inside, the standard black vegan leather seats are in excellent condition, showing minimal wear. However, the front console’s USB charging outlets have ceased functioning, though the rear outlets remain operational, serving as a current workaround. Repairing the front USB ports is a minor service item I plan to address in the future.
No Service Expenses for 20 Months: A Testament to EV Reliability
My enthusiasm for green technology, especially electric vehicles, and my Tesla fandom remain strong. Despite any controversies surrounding Elon Musk, the Model 3 continues to deliver immense driving pleasure. This stems largely from two key factors: the exhilarating acceleration and the increasingly sophisticated “Full Self Driving” (FSD) capability. FSD, while still requiring attentive supervision, offers near-autonomous driving in many situations, significantly enhancing the driving experience.
Full Self Driving (FSD) Supervised V12.5: Progress and Limitations
The Full Self Driving (Supervised) package, currently running version V12.5.4, is indeed impressive. In many instances, it can navigate to destinations entered into the navigation system almost as proficiently as a human driver. However, it’s critical to acknowledge that it’s not flawless. Occasional errors necessitate immediate driver intervention to prevent potential accidents. Furthermore, FSD can exhibit excessive caution at stop signs and in heavy traffic, sometimes requiring manual acceleration input at intersections. Despite these limitations, FSD has undergone substantial improvements over the past two years, including:
- Effective navigation of roundabouts.
- Maneuvering around obstacles protruding into the lane.
- Appropriate responses to lane closures due to construction barrels on highways.
- Deceleration for speed bumps.
- However, it still needs refinement in recognizing school zone speed limits and flashing lights.
Consistent Maintenance Costs: The EV Advantage
It’s widely understood that EVs, in principle, are mechanically simpler than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. ICEs and their transmissions are inherently more complex and often require major overhauls or replacements well before reaching 200,000 miles. EVs eliminate these complexities, along with exhaust systems, emission controls, and cooling systems associated with ICEs.
However, the high cost of EV batteries raises concerns about replacement. Is battery longevity a real concern? I’ve adopted a conservative approach to battery management, aiming for a lifespan exceeding 10 years and 500,000 miles. Typically, I avoid charging beyond 80% capacity, and the majority of charging is done at Level 2 speeds in my garage. However, Tesla’s Supercharger network has been invaluable for long-distance travel. When new, my Model 3 Long Range had an EPA-estimated range for a Tesla of 310 miles. Currently, when charging to 100%, the car estimates a range for a Tesla of 271 miles. This indicates a degradation of 39 miles (310 – 271 = 39), or approximately 12.5% (39/310) range loss over 138,856 miles. At 112,000 miles, the battery degradation was around 8%, suggesting a 4.5% loss in the subsequent 26,856 miles. While I had hoped for a slower degradation rate at higher mileage, this level of battery capacity retention is still within acceptable parameters for long-term EV ownership and the range for a Tesla remains practical for daily use.
My Model 3’s drive system and battery warranty concluded at 130,000 miles. Future repairs related to these components will be my responsibility. The presence of home solar panels in Utah helps offset charging costs when at my second home, effectively driving on sunshine. However, Supercharger use on road trips incurs electricity costs comparable to gasoline expenses for ICE vehicles. Fortunately, reader referrals have granted me complimentary Supercharging for the past year, significantly reducing these costs. It’s worth noting that the weight of EV batteries and the rapid acceleration capabilities of Teslas contribute to faster tire wear compared to ICE vehicles, representing an increased maintenance expense.
Over ~138,856 miles, my total expenditure on tires and out-of-warranty repairs for the Model 3 has been $5,290.15. Opting for economy tires for three out of four sets proved to be a cost-effective strategy. However, an unexpected flat tire incident necessitated purchasing a more expensive set at short notice, impacting the overall tire cost. Despite this, the cumulative maintenance costs are likely comparable to, or potentially less than, those expected for a comparable ICE vehicle, considering expenses like repairs, tires, oil changes, emission tests, brake services, and fuel. The long-term cost benefits of EV ownership are anticipated to become more pronounced as ICE vehicles accrue costs associated with timing belts, mufflers, exhaust and emission systems, and eventual transmission or engine overhauls. My goal is to drive this Tesla to 500,000 miles, a feasible expectation given the durability of electric powertrains and batteries.
Figure 2: Mary and Zuni with our Tesla Model 3 and my ebike on the back. Tunnel Road, Zion National Park, Utah. January 10, 2022. Photo by Fritz Hasler.
Figure 2 shows my wife, our dog Zuni, our Model 3, and my e-bike in Zion National Park, Utah, where we spend a significant portion of the winter, conveniently located near our daughter’s home.
Below is a detailed breakdown of service costs incurred up to 138,856 miles. Aside from impending tire replacement, no additional service costs have arisen since the 90,000-mile mark.
The Tesla app conveniently provided dates, mileage, and costs for repairs within the past two years. Regrettably, older records seem to be unavailable through the app. The following lists unforced, out-of-warranty repair expenses:
- Tire Replacements (4 sets): $578.93 + $565.44 + $1252.23 + $644.15 = $3,040.15. The fourth set is projected to last until 150,000 miles, though winter driving conditions might necessitate earlier replacement.
- Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $29.00. Mobile service installation was complimentary. Note: The cabin air filter is a dual-unit component and replacement can be complex without proper tools and DIY experience.
- Wheel Alignments (twice in ~April 2020 and April 2021): ~$280.
- November 3, 2021 (54,131 miles): Right front upper control arm ball joint reseal (squeaking issue) — $49.
- November 3, 2021 (54,131 miles): Wheel Alignment — $90.75.
- July 22, 2022 (73,149 miles): Superbottle (battery and drive system cooling valve) replacement (car speed limited to 50 mph) — $672.75.
- February 2, 2023 (88,705 miles): Windshield wiper replacement by mobile service — $23.00. A straightforward DIY task.
- February 20, 2023 (90,029 miles): PTC/cabin heater replacement (car unable to engage drive) — $1,148.00.
- March 2024: Floor mat replacement. Original cloth mats failed to stay in place. Amazon rubber floor mats purchased for $49 offer improved aesthetics, easier cleaning, and better grip, albeit with minor fitment compromises.
An interesting observation: Despite its advanced technology, the Model 3 utilizes a traditional 12-volt lead-acid battery to power the electronics during startup. These batteries typically last 4-5 years. While mine is still functioning, proactive replacement might be prudent. Newer Teslas are adopting lithium-ion 12V batteries, offering enhanced durability and a projected lifespan exceeding 10 years. [Editor’s note: Tesla provides an on-screen notification when 12V battery replacement is due, prompting action before failure. —Zach]
Repair/Maintenance Cost Summary
- 4 Sets of Tires: $3,040.15
- Wheel Alignments (3 total): $370.75
- Superbottle Replacement: $672.75
- PTC Heater Replacement: $1,148
- Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $29.00
- Windshield Wiper Replacement: $23.00
- New Floor Mats: $49
- Windshield Wiper Fluid (4 bottles): $10.00
- TOTAL: $5,290.15
Additional Ownership Costs
Annual registration for my 2019 Tesla Model 3 in Utah is $318.25. This includes a $188 electric vehicle fee, implemented to compensate for the absence of gasoline tax revenue from EV owners. Utah offers a mileage-based fee option, but for high-mileage vehicles like mine, the fixed fee is more economical.
The Significant Cost Factor
A recent insurance policy renewal revealed a surprisingly high annual premium of $3,089. Over five years, total insurance costs could reach $15,000, significantly overshadowing the $5,200 spent on tires and repairs. This highlights that while EVs may offer long-term savings in fuel and maintenance, insurance costs can be a substantial and often underestimated factor in the overall cost of ownership. For those considering an EV for cost savings, it’s crucial to factor in insurance premiums.
Please share your Tesla repair and maintenance experiences in the comments below.
Referral Program: Tesla’s referral program is active again. If you found this article helpful and are considering a new Tesla, please use my referral link: https://ts.la/arthur73734 (apply during your order). Using this link may provide you with $1,000 off Model S or X, or $500 off Model 3 or Y, plus 3 months of Full Self-Driving (Supervised). Remember to remain vigilant and ready to intervene while using FSD.
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