At a Glance
The Tesla Model 3 has 5 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the Model 3 (2019-2025) being the most affected generation and tyres & wheels the most common problem category. Based on 112K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Tesla Model 3 common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Tesla Model 3 generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Help other Tesla Model 3 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Most Common Tesla Model 3 MOT Failures
Every reason Tesla Model 3 vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 64.21% |
| 2 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 11.98% |
| 3 | Windscreen washer not working | 4.61% |
| 4 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.75% |
| 5 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 2.63% |
| 6 | Number plate lamp not working | 2.60% |
| 7 | Brake performance below minimum | 2.19% |
| 8 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.95% |
| 9 | Headlamp fault | 0.72% |
| 10 | Indicator fault | 0.65% |
| 11 | Stop lamp not working | 0.62% |
| 12 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.46% |
| 13 | Airbag warning light on | 0.34% |
| 14 | Seat belt condition | 0.29% |
| 15 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.25% |
| 16 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.24% |
| 17 | Brake pads or linings worn | 0.24% |
| 18 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.23% |
| 19 | Tyre condition | 0.20% |
| 20 | Front fog lamp not working | 0.19% |
| 21 | Horn not working | 0.18% |
| 22 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.17% |
| 23 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.16% |
| 24 | Driveshaft fault | 0.16% |
| 25 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.16% |
| 26 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.14% |
| 27 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.13% |
| 28 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.13% |
| 29 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.11% |
| 30 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.11% |
| 31 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.10% |
| 32 | Brake pedal fault | 0.09% |
| 33 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.08% |
| 34 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.07% |
| 35 | ABS fault | 0.06% |
| 36 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.06% |
| 37 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.06% |
| 38 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.05% |
| 39 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.05% |
| 40 | Track rod end worn | 0.05% |
| 41 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.05% |
| 42 | Daytime running lamp not working | 0.04% |
| 43 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.04% |
| 44 | Driver seat fault | 0.03% |
| 45 | Seat belt anchorage fault | 0.03% |
| 46 | Window damaged or won't operate | 0.03% |
| 47 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.03% |
| 48 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.03% |
| 49 | Brake caliper fault | 0.02% |
| 50 | Wheel hub fault | 0.02% |
| 51 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.01% |
| 52 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.01% |
| 53 | Electronic parking brake fault | 0.01% |
| 54 | Front passenger door fault | 0.01% |
| 55 | Mirror or camera fault | 0.01% |
| 56 | Seat belt or padding damaged | 0.01% |
| 57 | Steering column fault | 0.01% |
| 58 | Steering lock fault | 0.01% |
| 59 | Steering rack fault | 0.01% |
| 60 | Suspension linkage attachment bracket or mounting corroded | 0.01% |
| 61 | Suspension rod worn or corroded | 0.01% |
| 62 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.01% |
| 63 | Dip switch fault | <0.01% |
| 64 | Drag link end worn | <0.01% |
| 65 | Driver door fault | <0.01% |
| 66 | Exhaust leak | <0.01% |
| 67 | Passenger seat fault | <0.01% |
| 68 | Position lamp not working | <0.01% |
| 69 | Reversing lamp switch fault | <0.01% |
| 70 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | <0.01% |
| 71 | Subframe corrosion or damage | <0.01% |
| 72 | Torsion bar worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 73 | Transmission oil leak | <0.01% |
| 74 | Universal joint worn | <0.01% |
| 75 | MacPherson strut worn | <0.01% |
Showing all 75 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Tesla Model 3 MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Tesla Model 3, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Tesla Model 3 problems?
Based on analysis of 112K Tesla Model 3 MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 5 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Tyre condition". Tyres & Wheels is the most common problem category.
Which Tesla Model 3 generation has the most problems?
The Tesla Model 3 Model 3 (2019-2025) (2019–2025) has the highest number of identified common problems (6). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Tesla Model 3?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Tesla Model 3 owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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