REDLINE ALLEYTesla Model 3 (original) buying guide
2017 to 2023. An original Model 3 suits a buyer who wants a quick EV with a strong charging network and checks the battery range first.
Big jobs
- Battery degradation. The battery is the most expensive part, and frequent Supercharging and regular charges to 100 percent speed up wear.
Workshop jobs
- Panel gaps and paint (earlier cars). Earlier production years have minor build quality issues, including panel gaps and paint flaws.
- Heat pump and climate control. Tesla has had recalls related to faulty heat pumps.
- Touchscreen. The central touchscreen runs nearly everything, so a glitching or freezing screen is a single point of failure.
- Suspension and alignment. Hard driving and potholes can upset the suspension and alignment.
Small jobs
- Recalls. Recalls covered brake caliper bolts, the front suspension lateral link torque, a front seat belt loop, the rear camera harness and software issues.
- Charging equipment and software features. Check the mobile connector and adapters are included, and that features like Full Self Driving are really on the car.
Questions for the seller
- Is it Standard Range, Long Range or Performance, and what battery chemistry?
- What range does it show at 100 percent charge?
- How has it mostly been charged?
- Have all recalls been done?
- Does it come with the mobile connector and adapters?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-04. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.