Selling guide
Selling a Tesla Model S? Show buyers the full history
Selling a used Tesla Model S in the UK? A £4.99 Honest Car Check report gives buyers the full DVLA + DVSA record up front. Faster sale, better price, fewer awkward questions.
Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 10,726 recorded MOT tests, 18.6% failed.

More on the Tesla Model S
When selling your used Tesla Model S, transparency is key. Presenting this report upfront can help you sell quickly and at a fair price, while also building buyer confidence.
What Buyers Worry About with a Used Tesla Model S
Potential buyers of a used Tesla Model S often have specific concerns. They may worry about the car’s battery life, software updates, and any known faults associated with the model. Additionally, they might be wary of common scams, such as odometer tampering or undisclosed accidents. By addressing these concerns upfront, you can create a more trustworthy selling environment.
Buyers may also be interested in the vehicle’s reliability reputation. Tesla has made strides in reliability, but any history of issues can raise red flags. Providing a comprehensive vehicle history report can help alleviate these worries, showing that you are transparent about the car’s condition.
Speeding Up the Sale with a Vehicle History Report
Showing a vehicle history report upfront can significantly speed up the sale process. Buyers appreciate having access to detailed information about the car, which can help them make a quicker decision.
A clear report can also help you stand out from other sellers who may not provide such transparency. By offering this information, you demonstrate professionalism and build trust, making it more likely that buyers will feel confident in their purchase.
What’s Included in the £4.99 Report
It includes every MOT history, any advisories, mileage readings, and the Clean Air Zone status. Additionally, the report provides a plain-English summary of the vehicle’s history, making it easy for buyers to understand.
You can share the report in various ways. Consider including it as a PDF in your online listing, printing it out for potential buyers during viewings, or even using it as a photo in your advertisement. This added layer of transparency can help you secure a quicker sale.
Pricing Your Tesla Model S Honestly
When setting your asking price, a clean report can support your valuation and justify your price to potential buyers. If the report shows a well-maintained vehicle with no major issues, you can confidently set a fair price that reflects the car’s condition and history.
Buyers often conduct their own checks, so having a clean report can prevent them from undervaluing your car based on assumptions or misinformation. Being upfront about the vehicle’s history can also help you avoid lengthy negotiations, allowing you to close the deal faster.
Essential Documents to Have Ready
Alongside the Honest Car Check report, ensure you have all necessary documents ready for potential buyers. The V5C registration document is crucial, as it proves your ownership. Additionally, having the service history and any previous MOT certificates can further validate the car’s condition and maintenance history.
Having these documents on hand not only shows that you are organised but also provides buyers with the assurance they need to proceed with the purchase. This level of preparedness can make a significant difference in the selling process.
Handling Test Drives, Viewings, and Payments Safely
When arranging test drives and viewings, safety should be a priority. This helps ensure that you are dealing with a serious buyer and protects your vehicle.
For payments, consider using secure methods such as bank transfers. Avoid accepting cash, as this can lead to complications. By handling these aspects professionally, you can create a smooth selling experience that builds trust with buyers.
What to Do If the Report Reveals Issues
If the Honest Car Check report uncovers any issues, do not hide them. Instead, be upfront about any findings and consider pricing them into your asking price. Transparency about the vehicle’s condition can foster trust and prevent potential disputes later on.
Addressing any concerns directly can also demonstrate your honesty as a seller. Buyers appreciate sellers who are forthcoming about their vehicle’s history, which can lead to a smoother negotiation process.
Selling Privately vs Trading In
Deciding whether to sell your Tesla Model S privately or trade it in can depend on your circumstances. Selling privately often allows you to achieve a higher price, especially if you provide a detailed history report that builds buyer confidence. However, it may require more time and effort on your part.
On the other hand, trading in can be a quicker option, but you may not receive the full value of your vehicle. Assess your priorities. if you want a fast sale, trading in might be the way to go.
By taking the time to prepare and present your Tesla Model S professionally, you can enhance your chances of a quick, fair sale.
Tesla Model S recall record
8 recalls have been issued for the Tesla Model S, between 2015 and 2025.
Update Vehicle Firmware To Restore Post-Crash eCall Functionality
R/2025/075Issued 7 March 2025
On affected vehicles the eCall audio system will not operate in compliance with Regulations when the front passenger seat is occupied. As a result communications between the occupants of the vehicle and an eCall public safety answer point are unavailable post-crash.
Remedy:Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.
Affects cars built Oct 2022 to Apr 2024
MISALIGNMENT OF THE HOOD LATCH MAY PREVENT LATCHING OF THE SECONDARY LATCH
R/2022/009Issued 18 February 2022
Misalignment of the hood latch may prevent latching of the secondary latch.
Remedy:Inspect the secondary hood latch on affected vehicles. If the hood is not properly retained by the secondary latch the latch mechanism will be reassembled and repositioned to assure proper alignment.
Affects cars built Sept 2014 to Dec 2020
WHEN THE eMMC REACHES ACCUMULATED LIFETIME WEAR THE CUSTOMER MAY EXPERIENCE A BLANK CENTRE DISPLAY
R/2021/031Issued 1 February 2021
When the eMMC reaches accumulated lifetime wear the customer may experience a blank centre display.
Remedy:Ensure current software is installed and upgrade the VCM daughterboard to a 64GB Micron eMMC.
Affects cars built May 2012 to Mar 2018
THE PROPELLANT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG INFLATOR MAY DEGRADE OVER TIME
R/2019/006Issued 11 January 2019
The front passenger airbag inflator could rupture in the event the airbag is deployed.
Remedy:Replace the front passenger air bag on affected vehicles.
Affects cars built Mar 2014 to Dec 2016
4 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 S MOT record
From 10,726 recorded MOT tests, 18.6% failed.
| Registered | Tests | Failed | Median mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 920 | 17.2% | 53,504 mi |
| 2019 | 1,226 | 13.8% | 62,600 mi |
| 2018 | 1,880 | 15.7% | 72,874 mi |
| 2017 | 2,532 | 17.8% | 81,529 mi |
| 2016 | 2,305 | 20.6% | 94,900 mi |
| 2015 | 1,271 | 23.3% | 103,452 mi |
| 2014 | 592 | 25.5% | 109,759 mi |
Most common reasons for failure
- Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements33.9%
- A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn32.2%
- A tyre seriously damaged14.4%
- Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured9.9%
- A tyre cords visible or damaged9.6%
Figures cover every Tesla Model S tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.
Tesla Model S official figures
Median across 2 variants on sale, electricity.
- Electric range
- 383.5 miles
- Manufacturer WLTP figure
Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to prepare before selling my Tesla Model S?
You should gather the V5C registration document, service history, and any receipts for repairs or upgrades. Having these ready can help build trust with potential buyers.
How can I determine the right price for my Tesla Model S?
Research similar models for sale in your area and consider factors like mileage, condition, and any additional features. Online valuation tools can also provide a helpful estimate.
What should I include in the vehicle history report?
The report should detail previous ownership, service records, accident history, and any outstanding finance. This transparency can reassure buyers and facilitate a smoother sale.
How do I handle test drives with potential buyers?
Always accompany the buyer on the test drive and ensure they have valid insurance. It's also wise to check their driving licence before handing over the keys.
What should I do if a buyer asks for a lower price?
Be prepared to negotiate, but know your lowest acceptable price beforehand. Highlight the car's features and history to justify your asking price.
Is it worth getting a professional inspection before selling?
Yes, a professional inspection can identify any issues that may need addressing. This can help you set a fair price and provide buyers with confidence in the vehicle's condition.
How can I make my Tesla Model S more appealing to buyers?
Ensure the car is clean and well-maintained, both inside and out. Providing a comprehensive history report and being transparent about the vehicle's condition can also enhance its appeal.
What are the benefits of providing a full history report to buyers?
A full history report can build trust and demonstrate that you are a responsible seller. It can also speed up the sale process by addressing potential buyer concerns upfront.
Selling cars for a living? Trade accounts give your team 120 full reports a month to hand to buyers.
Sources
- DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- VCA new car fuel consumption and emissions data (Open Government Licence v3.0)
- DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0)