The 2019 Tesla Model 3 lasts over 300,000 miles with relatively minor software and A/C system issues reported. At $31,998 to $58,254, it’s relatively expensive, but still a decent value for a fun electric car with low ownership costs.
Is the 2019 Tesla Model 3 a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 9/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Tesla Model 3 since it has low ownership costs paired with good performance. Owner reviews praise the advanced technology, quiet driving experience, along with the low running costs.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are pretty nice for a car in its price range, the seats offer good comfort for long drives, cargo space is also average.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no serious mechanical problems with the Model 3, although the build quality is lower than other sedans in the same price range.
- Performance 10/10 – All of the Model 3 models are quick for a small sedan, while the Performance model is among the fastest compact sedans in the world.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2019 Tesla Model 3 is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, along with forward collision warning. Optional upgrades include the self-driving Autopilot system, adaptive cruise control, as well as lane change assist.
- Gas Mileage 9/10 – The Tesla Model 3 is rated at up to 120 MPGe by the EPA, giving it a range of up to 310 miles on a full charge.
- Value 8/10 – The Tesla Model 3 is cheaper than other luxury electric vehicles while also depreciating slowly.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Tesla Model 3?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Tesla Model 3 is a good attempt at a mass-market electric car, with high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Model 3 at 4.6/5, praising the performance and handling, but doesn’t like the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Tesla Model 3 a 4.7/5, enjoying the advanced technology, but owners don’t like the poor build quality
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Tesla Model 3 Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Tesla Model 3 include unintended acceleration, a smell from the A/C system, along with a broken charge pin. Overall, these problems are similar to other electric vehicles on the market, although repair costs can get expensive due to the scarcity of parts.
Unintended acceleration is the most common complaint from Tesla Model 3 owners in the first 5,000 miles. The problem was caused by a software and sensor issue while using the adaptive cruise control system. There are software updates which improve the functionality of the sensors, and are available as free updates.
A smell coming from the A/C system is another issue reported by Model 3 owners at around 10,000 miles. Usually the smell is caused by a dirty cabin air filter. Replacing the filter is an easy DIY process that takes around 10 minutes and costs under $20 for a replacement filter. If changing the filter doesn’t solve the problem, then you may need to have the coil cleaned, which costs under $100.
A broken charge pin has also shown up on some 2019 Model 3s. Usually if the charger gets hit hard while it’s plugged into the car, it can break off one of the charging pins. Replacing the charge port costs around $550, depending on local labor rates.
There are 14 recalls on the 2019 Tesla Model 3, which is much more than other small sedans on the market. The most serious recall is for the front suspension lateral link, which may separate, increasing the risk of a crash. Tesla will replace parts on affected models for free. A vast majority of the recalls are for software issues which Tesla updates over-the-air for free, meaning you do not have to bring your car into a dealership.
How Long Will the 2019 Tesla Model 3 Last?
A well-maintained Tesla Model 3 can last over 300,000 miles, which is much longer than competitors like the Nissan Leaf. Regular annual maintenance costs are more affordable than a normal gasoline car since it won’t need oil changes. One thing owners should know is the battery pack costs around $16,000 when it wears out, although it should be good for around 500,000 miles.
As a used 2019 Tesla Model 3 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history owners should be prepared to replace the brake pads for $450, the 12 volt starting battery costing $500, along with the coolant which costs about $150.
So far we have had no problems. We've driven it pretty far and it has not given us and problems. I do wish there were more super chargers in the San Diego area.
It’s very reliable with very little problems, I had to get used to the car at first and understand the under parts of the programming in order to effectively use it
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is great in the 2019 Tesla Model 3 since it has a very nice touchscreen interface paired with a powerful stereo system. Unfortunately, Tesla does not work with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Safety technology is fantastic with standard advanced safety features including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Side collision warning
- Rearview camera
- Forward collision warning
- Blind spot monitoring
Optional advanced safety features include:
- Enhanced autopilot system which operates steering, throttle, brakes, along with changing lanes.
- Full self-driving capabilities with automatic navigation, although it still requires human intervention.
Is the 2019 Tesla Model 3 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Tesla Model 3 is a good value since it’s affordable to own long-term while also being cheaper than many other electric cars. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $31,998 to $58,254, making it less than a Tesla Model S or Audi e-Tron. When new, the price range was $35,000 to $56,990. Depreciation is very slow, in current market conditions, they only lose around 2% of their current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Tesla Model 3?
There are three versions of the Tesla Model 3 offered for the 2019 model year including the base Standard Range, improved Long Range, and the more powerful Performance model. They are all similarly equipped just with different motor options. The Standard Range model is rear-wheel drive while the Long Range trim and Performance trim offer all-wheel drive.
Standard Features Include:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Automatic LED Headlights
- Simulated Leather Interior
- Keyless Entry
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- 60/40-Split Folding Rear Seats
- 15-Inch Touchscreen
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Forward Collision Warning And Mitigation
Optional Upgrades Available:
- LED Foglights
- Heated and Power Folding Mirrors
- Panoramic Glass Roof
- Heated Seats
- 12-Way Power-Adjustable Front Seats
- Power-Adjustable Steering Column
- Wood Interior Trim
- Premium Audio System
- 20-inch Wheels
- Lowered Suspension
- Upgraded Brakes
- Carbon Fiber Spoiler
- Higher Speed Limiter
What Engines Come In the Tesla Model 3?
- The Standard Range Model 3 comes with a single electric motor which makes 283 horsepower while getting up to 240 miles of driving range.
- The Long Range Model 3 has dual electric motors which generate 346 horsepower and has 310 miles of range.
- The Model 3 Performance also has dual electric motors which produce 450 horsepower while getting 300 miles of range. Performance is excellent, taking 3.1 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Tesla Model 3 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Tesla Model 3?
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 is a comfortable sedan, offering a smooth ride and well-cushioned seats. The all-electric powertrain provides instant torque, which means that the car accelerates smoothly and quietly. The interior is also well-appointed, with a minimalist design and high-quality materials.
The front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of legroom and headroom for most adults. The rear seats are also roomy and can comfortably seat two adults, although taller passengers may find headroom to be a bit tight.
How Much Storage Space Does the Tesla Model 3 Have?
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 has similar storage compared to other small sedans. It comes with a trunk in the front of the vehicle, known as a “frunk,” which provides an additional 0.5 cubic feet of storage space. This space can be used for smaller items, such as a purse or a backpack. The rear trunk of the vehicle provides an additional 14 cubic feet of storage space, which can be used for larger items such as luggage or groceries. There’s even more space with the rear seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Tesla Model 3 was first introduced for the 2017 model year as an affordable electric car.
2017: First model year for the Tesla Model 3 with a lot of advanced technology features.
2018: Mid-range battery pack available, new dual-motor version with all-wheel drive added.
2019: More affordable low-range battery packs added to the lineup.
2020: No major changes.
2021: Upgraded interior & exterior trim, standard wireless phone charger, increased range.
2022: New sound-reducing windows, upgraded stereo system, and the 12-volt battery is now lithium-ion
How Does the Tesla Model 3 Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best electric cars on the market since it offers great performance paired, good reliability ratings, along with low ownership costs.
The Porsche Panamera is a larger electric car which can be found for around $35,000 more. Interior materials and overall build quality are better in the Porsche Panamera, while the Tesla Model 3 has lower running costs as they age. We recommend the Tesla Model 3 just since it’s so much more affordable.
The Tesla Model S is another electric sedan offered by Tesla which is around $20,000 more. Performance is better in the Tesla Model S, while the Tesla Model 3 has a better infotainment system for the 2019 model year. We recommend the Tesla Model 3 unless you need the extra room in the Model S.
Do Owners Recommend the Tesla Model 3?
Yes it is. My husband and I love it! We prefer this over our other car hands down! We charge it every night at our house and it is enough for the days drive to work.
It is a great vehicle, it is very cost efficient to drive an electric vehicle. With the gas prices always fluctuating it is nice to know that there is a standard in electric consumption