This Tesla Driver Hit 250,000 Km in 5 Years with His Model 3 : He Reveals the Battery’s Condition and the Repairs

Owning a Tesla has become a badge of innovation for many electric vehicle enthusiasts, but with that innovation comes an inevitable question: how well do these cars age over time? As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to dominate the automotive landscape, their long-term durability and the state of their components—particularly the battery—remain key areas of curiosity. One Tesla owner, Lawrence, recently shared his experience on YouTube, offering valuable insights into how his 2018 Model 3 has held up after 250,000 kilometers (about 155,000 miles) and five years of use.

Battery Durability: How Much Loss After 250,000 Km?

One of the biggest concerns among potential EV buyers is the longevity of the battery. While electric cars are generally low-maintenance compared to their gas counterparts, the battery is still a critical part of the equation. Lawrence’s Tesla Model 3, purchased in September 2018, has now crossed the 250,000 km mark, and he was quick to provide an honest assessment of the battery’s performance.

According to Lawrence, the car’s battery has lost about 8-10% of its capacity, though the Tesla app reports a loss of around 11%. This level of degradation is fairly typical for EV batteries after several years of use. Lawrence admits that he had hoped newer models would experience less capacity loss, but it appears the figures are largely in line with industry expectations. “I was hoping the newer models would lose less, but it’s pretty much the same,” he says. The battery’s slow decline, despite extensive driving and heavy use of supercharging, highlights how durable Tesla’s technology really is.

While some drivers are wary of using superchargers—believing they could harm the battery—Lawrence hasn’t noticed a significant difference compared to those who use regular slow chargers. “People say that supercharging is bad for the battery, but I wanted to compare it with others who use slow charging, and it doesn’t seem to make much difference,” Lawrence explains. He estimates the difference in battery degradation to be only one or two percent, a marginal difference that suggests the supercharging myth might be exaggerated.

Minimal Repairs Over Five Years: Is Tesla Maintenance Really That Low?

A common concern among potential Tesla buyers is the cost of repairs over time. Given the high-tech nature of these vehicles, one might expect expensive repairs and frequent issues. But Lawrence’s experience has been surprisingly free of drama.

For almost three years, Lawrence reported very few problems with his Model 3. He’s even shared the total repair costs he’s incurred, which have remained relatively modest for a vehicle that has clocked over 250,000 km. The first major repair, related to the battery, was the replacement of the charging port, which set him back around $600. After that, he had to replace the 12-volt battery for $125, and eventually, the upper control arms due to some squeaking sounds, costing him a few hundred dollars more. In total, Lawrence spent about $1,000 on repairs in the first few years.

Tire maintenance is another area that often generates concerns. His Model 3 initially came with Michelin 4S tires, which are known for their high performance but also their steep price. After five years, Lawrence decided to swap them out for more affordable tire brands, a smart decision for anyone looking to reduce the overall cost of ownership. Despite this change, he finds that the car drives just as well as it did when he first bought it.

Five Years In: The Verdict on Tesla’s Durability

After five years and 250,000 km, Lawrence’s Model 3 still feels remarkably new. He describes the overall wear of the car as minimal, with everything still in excellent condition. “Everything is still 99% like new. The wear on the car is almost identical to when I first got it. It’s very easy to clean, a little worn but in great condition, and you don’t really feel the age of the car,” he adds.

For anyone considering buying a used Tesla, Lawrence’s experience offers reassuring insight into the long-term performance of the Model 3. The car’s durability, low maintenance needs, and the relatively minor battery degradation make it a compelling choice for those looking for an EV that can handle significant mileage without breaking the bank on repairs or replacements. Tesla’s technology, particularly in terms of battery life and overall car durability, seems to hold up impressively well after five years of use.

As Lawrence’s experience demonstrates, Teslas continue to prove that they are not just a trendy new vehicle, but an investment in a future-proof, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly car. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, the Model 3 might just be the reliable workhorse you’re looking for—proving that, sometimes, the hype is real.