Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Tesla Tesla Model 3 is known for (2017–2020), 0 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Walk the window chrome in good light for white bloom, rainbow staining or patches that will not wipe off.
Why it matters: Stained or etched chrome makes an otherwise tidy car look tired and is not covered by Tesla once it has happened, so a buyer is looking at a cosmetic repair or wrap bill with no warranty fallback.
What to look for: Carefully run a finger along the underside and back edge of each door handle for lifted chrome or a sharp seam.
Why it matters: A delaminating handle is a genuine cut hazard for whoever opens the door, and once it starts it only gets worse, so a car with early peeling is heading for a handle replacement or a cover-up repair.
What to look for: Look closely at both grip areas and the inner rim of the steering wheel for bubbles, wrinkles or bare patches.
Why it matters: A peeling wheel is the first thing a buyer's hands touch, and Tesla does not warranty it once it has happened, so it is either a four-figure wheel replacement, a re-trim job, or a cover papering over a tired interior.
Got a question about a Tesla Tesla Model 3? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.