The 2021 Tesla Model 3 lasts over 300,000 miles with some driving aids and build quality issues reported. At $39,990 to $56,990, it’s expensive, but worth the money for an EV with very low ownership costs as it ages.
Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 9/10 – 2021 is a great year for the Tesla Model 3 since it has very low ownership and running costs. Owner reviews praise the performance, advanced safety tech, along with the large touchscreen.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice for a small sedan, the seats are supportive and well-cushioned, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no serious mechanical issues reported with the 2021 Model 3, although overall quality is still lagging behind other car brands.
- Performance 10/10 – All Model 3s are reasonably quick for a compact sedan while the Performance model is among the fastest compact sedans in the world.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2021 Model 3 is a safe sedan, earning a 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, along with a rearview camera. Full-self-driving is an optional upgrade.
- Gas Mileage 10/10 – The 2021 Model 3 gets up to 141 MPGe, allowing it to go 330 miles on a charge, which is better range than many competitors.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is cheaper than some other premium EVs, while still offering low depreciation rates.
Positive Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Tesla Model 3?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Tesla Model 3 offers excellent range, low ownership costs, along with high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rate the Model 3 at 4.3/5, enjoying the comfortable seating, but doesn’t like the distracting large touchscreen.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 2021 Model 3 a 4.7/5, praising the excellent driver safety technology, but don’t like the lack of Apple CarPlay.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Tesla Model 3 include overly sensitive driving aids, cracked roof glass, along with some general build-quality issues. Overall, these problems are similar to other electric cars, leading to lower repair costs as the Model 3 ages.
Overly sensitive driving aids are the most widespread complaint from 2021 Model 3 owners in the first 2,000 miles. There are free over-the-air software updates that adjust the sensitivity of various sensors on the car to balance the driving experience. You can also adjust some of the driving aids through the central screen.
Cracked roof glass on the panoramic sunroof is another issue reported by some Model 3 owners. The glass is prone to cracking when hit by rocks. The only way to fix the problem is by replacing the panels of glass, which cost around $1,500, depending on local labor rates.
General build quality issues still show up on some 2021 Model 3s, although they’re not as widespread as in earlier years. Problems like panel alignment, loose interior parts, along with items missing clips or screws still show up. Most of these issues can be fixed under warranty for free.
There are 14 recalls on the 2021 Tesla Model 3, which is much worse than other small electric cars on the market. The most serious recall is for the front suspension lateral link connection, which may separate, increasing the risk of a crash. Many of the other recalls are covered by free software updates.
How Long Will the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Tesla Model 3 can last over 300,000 miles, which is longer than other small electric cars like the BMW i3. Owners should be aware that the battery pack has an estimated lifespan of 500,000 miles, and costs over $15,000 to replace. Regular annual maintenance costs are very low since it doesn’t require services like oil changes.
As a used 2021 Tesla Model 3 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the 12-volt battery for $500, front brake pads costing $350, along with the battery coolant which is around $150.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is excellent, offering a standard 15-inch touchscreen with navigation features. Optional upgrades include a premium stereo system. Unfortunately, the 2021 Model 3 still does not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Standard safety technology is fantastic with:
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Sensors throughout the car
Optional advanced driver assistance upgrades include:
- Full self-driving capabilities which can handle automatic lane changes, recognize traffic signs, and stop at lights.
Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 is a good value since it offers a lot of performance and low ownership costs. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $39,990 to $56,990, making it less than an Audi e-Tron or Tesla Model S. When new, the price range was $44,990 to $58,990. Depreciation is similar to other EVs, losing about 5% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Tesla Model 3?
There are three models of the Tesla Model 3 offered in 2021, from the Standard Range Plus all the way through to the Performance. The Model 3 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is used on the Long Range and Performance models.
Standard Range Plus is the entry-level model with:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Simulated Leather Upholstery
- Panoramic All Glass Roof
- Keyless Entry and Start
- Power-Adjustable Front Seats
- Heated Front Seats
- Wireless Smartphone Charging
- Heated Steering Wheel
- 15-Inch Touchscreen
Long Range is a step up, adding:
- Dual Electric Motors
- Heated Rear Seats
- 15-Speaker Premium Sound System
Performance has more upgrades such as:
- 20-Inch Wheels
- Carbon-Fiber Rear Spoiler
- Sport Suspension
- High-Performance Brakes
- Aluminum Pedals
- Track-Oriented Driving Mode
What Engines Come In the Tesla Model 3?
- The Standard Range Model 3 comes with a single electric motor which makes 283 horsepower and gets up to 250 miles of range.
- The Long Range Model 3 offers dual electric motors which produce 346 horsepower at up to 330 miles of range.
- The Model 3 Performance also uses dual electric motors which generate 450 horsepower and get 304 miles of range. Performance is great, 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 2021 Tesla Model 3 is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers. Its minimalist and modern interior features, high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout, which contribute to a refined and uncluttered atmosphere. The Model 3 offers ample legroom and headroom for passengers in both the front and rear seats, providing a comfortable ride even on long journeys.
Its advanced suspension system efficiently absorbs road imperfections, delivering a smooth and controlled ride. Additionally, the electric powertrain provides a quiet cabin, as there is minimal engine noise and vibration. The Model 3 also includes an advanced climate control system, providing consistent cabin temperatures and improved air quality. Overall, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 is a comfortable and luxurious vehicle that offers an enjoyable driving experience for all occupants.
How Much Storage Space Does the Tesla Model 3 Have?
The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is a popular electric vehicle known for its sleek design, impressive performance, and ample storage space. Regarding storage capacity, the Model 3 offers a combined 15 cubic feet of cargo space. This is distributed between the front and rear compartments, with the front trunk or “frunk” providing 2.7 cubic feet and the rear trunk offering 12.3 cubic feet. This generous cargo space makes the 2021 Tesla Model 3 a practical choice for daily use, road trips, and other adventures, as it can easily accommodate luggage, groceries, or sports equipment while maintaining its stylish appearance.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Tesla Model 3 was introduced for the 2017 model year as the first affordable electric car built by Tesla.
2017: First model year for the Tesla Model 3.
2018: Mid-range battery pack offered, dual-motor all-wheel drive version introduced.
2019: More budget-friendly low-range battery packs added.
2020: No changes.
2021: Increased range, upgraded interior and exterior trim, along with a standard wireless phone charger.
2022: Upgraded stereo system, sound-reducing windows added, new 12-volt lithium-ion battery.
How Does the Tesla Model 3 Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Tesla Model 3 is one of the best compact electric cars on the market since it offers very low ownership costs paired with a fun driving experience.
The Tesla Model Y is an SUV offered by Tesla which costs around $5,000 more. Both the Tesla Model Y and Tesla Model 3 are built on the same base platform, while the Model Y has more passenger and cargo room. We recommend the Tesla Model 3 since it’s cheaper, although if you need the extra space then the Model Y is a great choice.
The Tesla Model S is a larger sedan made by Tesla which costs over $40,000 more. Performance and interior materials are both better in the Tesla Model S, while the Tesla Model 3 feels more nimble to drive. We recommend the Tesla Model 3 for most buyers unless you want to spend the extra money to have the company’s flagship sedan.
