# Tesla Model 3 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Tesla Model 3 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/tesla-model-3

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Standard Range
- **Target mileage**: 40,000–60,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £15,500

## Why this model

The Tesla Model 3 is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a modern, tech-filled electric car that's still great value on the used market. It's quick, fun to drive, and has access to Tesla's excellent Supercharger network, which is a huge bonus for longer trips. The price cuts Tesla made in 2023-24 have really pushed down used values, making a 2021 model a real bargain now that it's taken the biggest hit of its depreciation. It's also very efficient, and with liquid-cooled batteries, degradation is generally well-managed, typically around 1.8% per year.

## What you should pay

For a 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, you should be looking to pay around £15,500. Long Range models from the same year will be closer to £20,000. The significant price adjustments by Tesla in recent years mean that these cars offer a lot of technology and performance for their current used price. The 57kWh usable battery in the Standard Range, combined with its liquid cooling, means you're getting a robust and efficient EV. Expect around 91% State of Health (SoH) at 5 years old, which is excellent.

## Which trim to buy

The Standard Range (SR) trim offers the best value for money. While the Long Range gives you more miles, the SR's 57kWh battery still provides a real-world range of around 268 miles, which is more than enough for most daily commutes and even occasional longer journeys, especially with the Supercharger network available. You get all the core Tesla tech and driving experience without the higher price tag of the Long Range or Performance models.

## What to check before you buy

- Panel gaps (check alignment, especially around boot and doors)
- Minor software glitches (usually resolved with updates)
- Suspension noise (some early models had issues, check for creaks/clunks)
- Tyre wear (can be higher due to instant torque and weight, check tread depth)
- Charging port door issues (ensure it opens and closes smoothly)

## Running costs

For 10,000 miles a year, home charging on a standard rate (Ofgem cap 24.5p/kWh) would be around £521/year (~5.2p/mile). If you get a smart EV tariff like Octopus Go or Intelligent Octopus (around 9p/kWh overnight), this drops significantly to about £191/year (~1.9p/mile), saving you roughly £330 annually. Road tax is free for EVs until April 2025, after which it will be £195 per year. Insurance can be on the higher side for Teslas due to their performance and technology, so always get quotes before committing.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Electric
- **Horsepower**: 283-444 hp
- **Mpg**: 4.7 mi/kWh (Electric)
- **Reliability Score**: Good (drivetrain), Moderate (build quality)
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Standard Range | £40,500 | £15,500 | Rear-wheel drive; Partial Premium Interior; Autopilot |
| Long Range | £49,500 | £20,000 | All-wheel drive; Premium Interior; Longer range battery |
| Performance | £59,500 | £24,000 | All-wheel drive; Performance brakes; Lowered suspension |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £15,500 | 100% |
| 2027 | £13,640 | 88% |
| 2028 | £12,276 | 79% |
| 2029 | £11,048 | 71% |
| 2030 | £9,943 | 64% |

Buying a 2021 Model 3 now means you're getting it after the steepest part of its depreciation curve, especially given the recent market adjustments for EVs. The initial big drop in value has already happened, so while it will continue to depreciate, the rate should be slower, making it a more stable investment for the next few years.

Total value lost since new: 35.98%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Polestar 2](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/polestar-2.md)
- BMW i4 eDrive40
- [Hyundai IONIQ 5](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/hyundai-ioniq-5.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.