Comprehensive Guide to Used Tesla Model 3 Maintenance Costs

JUN 18,2025,By lan

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Buying a used electric vehicle always brings up the question of maintenance costs. The Tesla Model 3, a top-selling electric sedan, has an official new price of $34,990. Used prices range from $8,999 to $48,900. While the initial cost may be high, long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make it a smart choice compared to used gasoline cars.

1. Model 3 Maintenance Cost Overview

  • 10-year total maintenance cost: $3,258 (saves $6,532 vs. similar gasoline cars)
  • First 5 years: $1,183 (saves $3,223 vs. industry average)
  • Major repair probability in first 5 years: 14% (15% lower than similar cars)

Key advantages:

  • 5-year basic maintenance: $580 (only 1/4 of gasoline cars)
  • Electric system saves $6,000 in fuel
  • Regenerative braking extends brake life

2. Cost Trends Over Time

Two key trends over 10 years:

1. Repair risk increases: Major repair risk rises from 1.38% (year 1) to 13.89% (year 10). Notable jumps at year 5 (6.50%) and year 8 (10.39%).

2. Annual maintenance cost: Grows from $184 (year 1) to $446 (year 10), a 142% increase. Cost growth speeds up after year 6.

3. Common Wear and Risk Items

  • Tire wear varies: Michelin CrossClimate 2 tires last up to 64,000 miles. OEM tires: 25,000-30,000 miles.
  • Tesla tire rule: Replace if tread <3mm or wear difference >1.5mm after 6,250 miles.
  • Mechanical issues: Some 2018-2019 models report control arm or link repairs ($300-$1,700).
  • Brake system: Regenerative braking means less wear. Clean calipers yearly or every 12,500 miles. Change brake fluid every 2 years.

4. Real Owner Feedback

Repair Item Mileage Cost Model Year
Suspension Failure 60,000-100,000 mi $300-$1,700 2018-2020
Upper Control Arm 90,000 mi $300 2018 LR RWD
Lateral Link 26,000+ mi $1,700 2019 SR
Rear Suspension 65,000 mi $1,000 2018
Battery System 60,000+ mi $2,000+ 2018 Early
Drive Unit 90,000 mi $2,000 2018 RWD
High Voltage Battery (Warranty) ≤60,000 mi $0 2021 SR+
Tire Replacement (OEM) 25,000-30,000 mi $1,200 2018
Tire Replacement (Michelin) 50,000-64,000 mi $900 2018 LR RWD
Consumables Regular $30-$200 All
12V Battery 4 years $85-$120 Pre-2018
AC Filter 1-2 years $30 All
Wiper Blades 1-2 years $40 All

5.Zero-Fault Scenarios

Many owners report zero repair costs in these cases:

1. Newer Models (2021+): Most 2023 owners report no issues. Typical cost: tire rotation $0-$20.

2. Warranty Repairs: Free replacement for charging port, high-voltage battery, and 12V battery.

3. DIY Maintenance: AC filter: $34/2 years. Wipers: $75/3 years (filter + wipers).

6.Key Takeaways

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