Top fixes

Top Tesla Model 3 fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Tesla Model 3 faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 86,416 recorded MOT tests, 14.2% failed.

Tesla Model 3
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Tesla Model 3 owners should be aware of common faults such as battery issues, screen glitches, door seal leaks, brake problems, and tyre wear. Many of these issues can be addressed with DIY fixes, while others may require professional assistance, with costs varying significantly based on the problem.

Battery Issues

The Tesla Model 3 may experience battery-related problems, particularly in earlier models (2017-2019). Symptoms include reduced range and charging issues. If you suspect a battery fault, check the battery management system via the touchscreen.

If it is a software issue, a simple reset can be done at home. For hardware issues, replacing the battery pack is necessary.

Screen Glitches

Some owners report touchscreen glitches, especially in 2018 and 2019 models. This may manifest as unresponsive controls or flickering screens.

A software update often resolves these issues. If the problem persists, a replacement screen may be needed.

Software updates are free.

Door Seal Leaks

Door seals can wear out, leading to water leaks, particularly in models from 2017 to 2020. This can result in damp interiors.

Inspect the seals for damage. If worn, you can replace them yourself with new seals, which are available online.

Brake Issues

Model 3 owners have reported issues with brake pads wearing out faster than expected, particularly in performance models.

Regular inspection is key. If pads are worn, they should be replaced immediately.

Tyre Wear

Uneven tyre wear is common in the Model 3, especially in models from 2018 to 2020. This can lead to handling issues and increased fuel consumption.

Regularly check tyre pressure and alignment. Rotating tyres can help extend their life.

Tesla Model 3 recall record

11 recalls have been issued for the Tesla Model 3, between 2020 and 2025.

  1. Loss of Rearview Camera Display Recall

    R/2025/049

    Issued 28 March 2025

    On a small percentage of affected vehicles upon vehicle power up the car computer board may experience a short resulting in the loss of rear view camera functionality .

    Remedy:Over the air software update or Car Computer replacement if necessary.

    Affects cars built Jan 2024 to Sept 2024

  2. Update Vehicle Software To Rectify EPAS Functionality

    R/2025/104

    Issued 14 March 2025

    On affected vehicles operating with a software release prior to 2023.38.4 an overvoltage breakdown in the steering rack may overstress motor drive components on the printed circuit board. If the overstress condition occurs while the vehicle is driving steering assistance will not be affected and a visual alert will illuminate. Once the vehicle speed comes to a standstill a loss of steering assistance may occur and loss of steering assistance will persist when the vehicle is driven again. Manual steering without steering assistance remains available to the driver.

    Remedy:Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.

    Affects cars built Jan 2022 to Aug 2023

  3. Update vehicle software to correct TPMS behaviour

    R/2025/002

    Issued 31 December 2024

    On affected vehicles upon detection of a malfunction with the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) the TPMS tell tale does not persist between drive cycles where the vehicle is off or asleep between the drive cycles. Therefore the driver may not be adequately warned of potential under-inflation of the tyres increasing the risk of a collision.

    Remedy:Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.

    Affects cars built May 2019 to Oct 2024

  4. IN CERTAIN CONDITIONS THE USER INTERFACE (UI ) ON AFFECTED VEHICLES DISPLAYS VEHICLE SPEED BUT NOT A UNIT OF SPEED(I.E MPH OR KM/H)

    R/2022/120

    Issued 20 April 2022

    In certain conditions the user interface (�UI�) on affected vehicles displays vehicle speed but not a unit of speed (i.e. mph or km/h).

    Remedy:Tesla will deploy an over the air firmware update that will reintroduce the display of the speed unit when using Track Mode.

    Affects cars built Feb 2018 to Apr 2022

7 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Tesla Model 3 MOT record

From 86,416 recorded MOT tests, 14.2% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20237057.5%45,717 mi
202218,86413.4%36,863 mi
202134,74012.9%44,808 mi
202021,90216.5%51,977 mi
201910,20516.2%56,340 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements44.5%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn17.4%
  3. A tyre seriously damaged16.5%
  4. A tyre cords visible or damaged12.9%
  5. Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured8.7%

Figures cover every Tesla Model 3 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Tesla Model 3 official figures

Median across 10 variants on sale, electricity.

Electric range
394.5 miles
Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults in the Tesla Model 3?

Common faults include battery issues, screen glitches, door seal leaks, brake issues, and tyre wear.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Some issues are DIY-able, while others are best left to professionals.

Are fixes permanent or temporary?

Some fixes are temporary patches, while others provide a long-term solution.

Sources