It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since I brought home my Tesla Model 3 SR+. Time really does fly when you’re driving electric! As we hit this milestone, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the long-term experience with what was once Tesla’s most affordable model. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into how the Model 3 SR+ has held up over half a decade. What aspects still excite me? What could be better? And crucially, is it built to last for another five years on the road? Let’s explore these questions and more in this in-depth Tesla Model 3 review.
Five-Year Tesla Model 3 SR+ Review: Reflecting on long-term electric vehicle ownership.
One of the most striking things about owning a Tesla Model 3 for five years is how little has fundamentally changed with the car itself. Of course, there have been a few maintenance items and replacements needed, which we’ll detail along with associated costs. We’ll also touch upon the charging experience and costs, although my situation was somewhat unique with access to free Supercharging for a significant portion of these years, making it less broadly applicable. Beyond the essentials, we’ll examine the wear and tear, particularly on the Model 3’s distinctive white vegan leather seats – a point of interest for many potential buyers considering Tesla Reviews. Similarly, we’ll look at battery degradation and how the real-world driving range has evolved over time.
Furthermore, we’ll discuss the journey with “Full Self Driving” (FSD) and how my perspective as an owner has shifted. We’ll also consider the broader context of Tesla’s growing presence and how public perception has evolved over these five years, alongside the impact of over-the-air software updates.
This tesla review aims to provide valuable insights for anyone contemplating a new or used Tesla Model 3, or even exploring the wider world of electric vehicles. If you have specific questions or areas you’d like me to cover, please feel free to leave a comment below! And for those of you who are also long-term Tesla owners, your input and shared experiences are highly welcome.
Long-Term Satisfaction: Living with the Model 3
Family-Friendly Tesla Model 3: A spacious and practical electric vehicle for everyday life.
Overall, my family and I remain incredibly satisfied with our Model 3. As a family of four, with two young daughters, it serves as our primary and only vehicle. It has capably handled almost every demand we’ve placed on it over these five years. Only on rare occasions, when needing to transport exceptionally large or cumbersome items, have I had to borrow an SUV or truck. For everyday family life – from school runs to hauling tennis rackets, soccer gear, and beach essentials – the Model 3 has been more than sufficient. Its practicality consistently earns high marks in tesla reviews from owners.
For longer journeys within Florida, the Supercharging network has been consistently convenient and reliable. Opting for the Standard Range Model 3 was a conscious decision, as I didn’t perceive a need for extended range for my typical use. The thousands of dollars saved by not upgrading to a Long Range model remain in my pocket, and I stand by that decision. For my needs, a longer-range version wouldn’t have offered significant additional benefits, reinforcing my belief in choosing the right model based on individual requirements, a key takeaway for many considering tesla reviews of different Tesla models.
Tesla Model 3 Supercharging Convenience: Effortless long-distance travel with Tesla’s expansive charging network.
Cool White Tesla Interior: Vegan leather seats that stay comfortable even in hot climates.
Initially, I was hesitant about choosing the white seats. However, I opted for them and would wholeheartedly recommend them, particularly for those living in warmer climates. In a hot place like Florida, they are noticeably cooler and more comfortable. While not impervious to all wear, as we’ll discuss later, they have been a fantastic choice. This is a frequently praised feature in tesla reviews from owners in sunny regions.
The driving dynamics of the Model 3 remain exceptional. I struggle to think of another car in its class that offers a more engaging and enjoyable driving experience. While I haven’t yet tested the Hyundai IONIQ 6, and the significantly pricier Porsche Taycan is undoubtedly a performance marvel, the Model 3 delivers a compelling blend of performance and handling. The main drawbacks in older Model 3s like mine are the less-than-ideal sound insulation and a suspension that transmits road imperfections quite noticeably – small bumps can feel surprisingly jarring. Highway driving can be accompanied by significant road noise. This is the primary downside I consistently highlight when people ask for tesla reviews before making a purchase. However, it’s crucial to note that the updated Model 3 has made substantial improvements in these areas, with enhanced sound dampening and a refined suspension now being key selling points.
I continue to appreciate the minimalist interior design of the Model 3, the intuitive infotainment system, and the comfortable seats – features I believe are unmatched in the US market. While some Chinese EV models might now surpass Tesla in certain aspects, these are not available in the US, and I can’t offer firsthand comparisons. The interior and tech features are consistently lauded in tesla reviews and remain a strong selling point for Tesla.
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Maintenance and Repair Costs Over 5 Years
In my December update, I reported total maintenance costs of $3199.59, primarily due to the expense of three sets of tires. This figure remains unchanged, as I haven’t incurred any additional maintenance or repair costs this year. I did bring the car in for a service appointment regarding an error with the front passenger seat’s safety restraint system, but thankfully, this was covered under warranty, resulting in a $0 charge. Over 61 months of ownership, $3199.59 translates to a remarkably low $52.45 per month. While this is a 5-year review, it’s technically for 5 years and 1 month of ownership! These low maintenance costs are a recurring theme in positive tesla reviews.
Warranty Covered Tesla Repair: Peace of mind with Tesla’s comprehensive vehicle warranty.
Wear and Tear After 5 Years: How Has It Held Up?
The extent of wear and tear on the Model 3 has been surprisingly minimal. There’s honestly not much to report in this area. The most significant issue encountered was the steering wheel material bubbling a couple of years ago. Tesla replaced the steering wheel under warranty, and the replacement has been problem-free since. However, comments on my YouTube video about this issue reveal that many Model 3 (and Model Y) owners have experienced the same problem and had to pay for out-of-warranty replacements. I do have a slight concern about the issue recurring on the new steering wheel over time. It’s worth noting that my parking situation has changed; I now garage the car most of the time, whereas previously it was often parked in the hot Florida sun. Tesla service personnel also suggested that hand sanitizer might have contributed to the original steering wheel issue. While I didn’t use hand sanitizer excessively, there was a period during the COVID pandemic when I used it more frequently, before suspecting it was causing skin problems and discontinuing its use. Time will tell if the bubbling issue resurfaces on the replacement steering wheel. This steering wheel issue is a point of concern sometimes mentioned in tesla reviews, especially for older models.
Aside from that, some areas of the white seating with a cloth-like texture have become slightly discolored. It’s not a major flaw, but it is noticeable upon close inspection. Tesla has since eliminated this cloth section in newer models, using faux leather throughout, so this is not a concern for buyers of new vehicles.
More recently, I’ve observed some areas of the seating surface losing some of their original pristine whiteness and smoothness. Naturally, time and usage take their toll. However, I believe the seats have held up remarkably well and remain attractive, smooth, and largely white. I’m genuinely interested to see how they will fare over the next five years. The durability of the white seats is a frequently discussed topic in tesla reviews.
Tesla Model 3 White Seat Detail 1: Close-up of vegan leather seat showing minimal wear after 5 years.
Tesla Model 3 White Seat Detail 2: Examining the condition of the white interior after years of use.
Tesla Model 3 White Seat Detail 3: Assessing the long-term appearance of the white vegan leather.
Tesla Model 3 White Seat Detail 4: Highlighting the enduring quality of Tesla’s interior materials.
Tesla Model 3 White Seat Detail 5: Demonstrating the longevity of the white seats in a real-world tesla review.
To be transparent, I feel the seats appear even nicer and whiter in person than in these photographs, but this is how my camera captured them.
There’s a small area in the driver’s door cupholder where the leather-like material is starting to peel or loosen. This spot has seen considerable use over the past five years, so it’s not entirely unexpected, but it’s now something I’m aware of and try to avoid exacerbating. Here’s a photo:
Minor Wear on Tesla Model 3 Cupholder: Small cosmetic wear after extensive use.
It’s a very minor issue, I admit. But it’s the most noticeable wear and tear I’m currently dealing with. I might try a dab of glue to reattach it, or I might just monitor it to see if it worsens.
Battery Degradation Over 5 Years
Initially, our Model 3’s range on a full charge decreased from approximately 230 miles to around 200 miles within the first year. Since then, the range has remained stable at this level. This is generally consistent with expectations for EV battery degradation. Batteries typically experience an initial capacity reduction relatively quickly, followed by a period of stability lasting many years, potentially over a decade, before another significant drop. Battery degradation is a key concern for EV owners, and tesla reviews often address this aspect. I’m not at all concerned about battery degradation in the long run. I anticipate these batteries will provide ample range well beyond the lifespan of the rest of the car.
Tesla Model 3 Battery Range Display: Showing real-world range after 5 years of use and battery degradation.
Tesla Full Self Driving (FSD) Experience
I’ve been extensively documenting Tesla’s progress with “Full Self Driving” (FSD) for several years. You can explore my detailed coverage here and watch related videos on YouTube here. The short summary is that after years of slow or even regressive development, the driver-assistance features have dramatically improved with version 12. However, when I purchased the car, Elon Musk suggested that the current level of FSD would be achieved by late 2019, and he confidently predicted robotaxi-capable technology by now. While FSD is still not ready for fully autonomous robotaxi deployment, it has reached a point where that future seems conceivable. However, the timeline for achieving true robotaxi capability remains uncertain, as numerous edge cases still need to be resolved. Some experts and tesla reviews express concerns about a potential “see-saw problem” [https://cleantechnica.com/2024/06/18/elon-musk-says-tesla-fsd-ai-having-exactly-the-problem-i-thought-2-years-ago-it-was-having-and-would-continue-having/] where progress in one area might create regressions in others. The future trajectory of FSD remains to be seen.
Tesla’s Evolving Presence in the Community
When we first got our Tesla Model 3, it was a novelty. Kids would excitedly point it out during school pickups. Even with a few Teslas already at the school, it still turned heads. Now, Tesla Model 3s and Model Ys are ubiquitous. They’ve become the Toyota Corolla or Camry of our area. The school kids barely notice our Model 3 anymore. However… a Cybertruck has recently appeared at the school, and I’m sure that’s currently generating considerable excitement. The changing perception of Tesla is a fascinating aspect of tesla reviews over time.
Eye-Catching Tesla Cybertruck: The latest Tesla vehicle capturing public attention.
The widespread presence of Tesla vehicles has likely contributed to greater mainstream acceptance of electric vehicle technology. It’s easier for potential buyers to understand the appeal and embrace EVs. We’re also seeing a growing number of non-Tesla EVs on the road. In short, EVs are becoming normalized. While they still don’t dominate the car market, they are finally becoming a familiar and accepted part of the automotive landscape.
Over-the-Air Software Updates: A 5-Year Perspective
Initially, I was impressed by the frequent and significant over-the-air software updates for the Model 3. We gained access to Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and entertaining video games. An efficiency update improved our maximum range. (Although, the original range was already more than sufficient for my needs, so the practical impact was minimal.) There were also fun Easter eggs added. However, in recent years, the updates have become less substantial. Notable improvements are less frequent. The touchscreen UI occasionally changes, sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. After those initial major updates, I had hoped for consistent, significant improvements, especially given Elon Musk’s past comments about monthly updates. While minor enhancements and new features are always welcome, groundbreaking changes have become less common. Overall, over-the-air updates are still a positive aspect, but their impact has lessened over time, a nuanced point often discussed in tesla reviews.
Would I Purchase the Tesla Model 3 Again?
Absolutely! However, if I were buying a new car today, I’d likely lean towards a Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6, or Hyundai IONIQ 5. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is also visually appealing, but I prefer the interior design and feel of the other three models. Personal preferences play a larger role in EV selection now, as highlighted in many tesla reviews.
Tesla Model 3 in Motion: Enjoying the driving experience after 5 years of ownership.
Tesla Model 3 Profile View: Still a stylish and modern electric vehicle design after 5 years.
Currently, choosing an electric car is increasingly driven by individual aesthetic preferences. Many EVs offer ample range, features, and competitive pricing. Furthermore, almost all major automakers have committed to Tesla Supercharger compatibility. The expanding EV market offers more choice than ever before, a point frequently emphasized in comparative tesla reviews.
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