What Is Tesla's MOT Pass Rate?
on 23 April 2026
Tesla vehicles have an overall pass rate of 86.5%, based on a total of 88,812 tests conducted from 2022 to 2024 according to DVSA anonymised MOT data. This figure is notably higher than the national average of 79.6% for the same period, indicating that Tesla vehicles generally perform better in mandatory inspections compared to other brands on British roads.
Tesla's MOT pass rate has shown a slight decline over the three-year period analysed: from 88.4% in 2022 (based on 26,387 tests), to 86.4% in 2023 (55,476 tests), and stabilised at 86.5% for 2024 with the latest data including 88,812 tests. While there has been a minor decrease, the overall performance remains consistent and significantly above the national average.
Which Tesla Models Pass Their MOT Most Often?
Tesla's Model 3 Long Range AWD boasts the highest pass rate among all models tested at 87.2%, with 37,667 tests conducted on vehicles averaging 42,265 miles of usage. The Model 3 Standard Range + follows closely behind with an 87.5% pass rate based on 21,535 tests and an average mileage of 43,040 miles.
However, the Model S shows a relatively lower performance with only 83.6% passing their MOT, out of 7,399 tests conducted at an average usage level of 83,973 miles. This discrepancy highlights that while some Tesla models maintain high reliability and pass rates, others may require more attention to ensure compliance.
What Are the Most Common MOT Failures on Tesla Vehicles?
Across all makes and models tested in Britain, lighting and electrical issues are the most common reasons for failure at 18.9%, according to DVSA anonymised MOT data. For Tesla vehicles specifically, these problems can be particularly critical due to their reliance on advanced electronic systems.
Suspension failures follow closely at 13.2% nationally, a category that also includes components such as shock absorbers and springs, which are important for maintaining safety and vehicle control. Brake system issues lead to MOT failure in 10.1% of cases overall, while tyre condition problems account for 7.8%.
To reduce the likelihood of these failures, Tesla owners should pay special attention to their lighting systems before booking an MOT test. ensuring tyres have adequate tread depth and checking wiper blades are in good condition can significantly improve the chances of passing the inspection.
How to Save Money on Your Tesla MOT
Preventing common advisories from becoming outright failures is key to saving money during your vehicle's MOT. A pre-MOT checklist should include a thorough review of all exterior lights, including indicators and brake lights, as well as checking tyre tread depth against legal limits and ensuring wiper blades are in good condition.
The DVSA charges a fixed fee of £54.85 for an MOT test, but this can increase if repairs are required due to advisories flagged during the inspection. Common advisories such as worn brake pads or slightly misaligned headlights shouldn't be ignored, but addressing these issues promptly may prevent more costly failures.
If your vehicle was financed via PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) or HP (Hire Purchase), it's worth checking if you were potentially mis-sold finance at mlj.org.uk. Mis-selling can lead to unnecessary financial burdens on car owners, affecting their ability to maintain and service their vehicles properly.
By staying informed about the specific needs of Tesla models and adhering to a consistent maintenance schedule, owners can ensure they maximise both safety and cost-efficiency when undergoing regular MOT checks.
According to the DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024), tesla has a 86.5% mot pass rate based on 88,812 tests
Sources
- DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024)
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