Tesla Model 3 - One Year On! Any Regrets/Issues?

I've owned my Tesla Model 3 Standard Range + for over a year now, so what issues have I had and would I buy it again?
Sorry for the delay in upload! I overestimated how much electricity I had in the laptop when exporting up here in the Scottish highlands!

[@johnkeen2345]

I bet if you tried to return the car back after a 3 year lease and the rear bumper was wonky. They would charge you for putting it right.

[@ExplodingPiggy]

Nah if it will have been recorded at point of sale.

[@djwarren5081]

As a Bradford lad living in Ambleside it was amusing to listen to another Yorkshire lad having a rant.

[@FrozenDung]

Big up lake district

[@devonbikefilms]

Brilliant rant on workmanship. Every word was spot on. The sad thing is it’s easy to fix. And as you say, the rest of the car is brilliant. Incidentally, I believe if they said they would fix it, they entered into a verbal contract, which is binding under British law.

[@miggy8011]

Agree, got my Tesla Model 3 in November 2021 and love it but the service and delivery communication was shocking.

[@davethefab6339]

Being a Yorkshire man myself I fully agree with your stress regarding gaps - no need for them at all.

[@savedfaves]

You’ll find beyond the boarders of the Yorkshire accent people still don’t like uneven panel gaps.

[@rrd_970]

Lesson - reject delivery if not happy with something. They can’t change their mind later then...

[@harrisj67]

Yes, our desire to take home that shiny new car, especially a new Tesla (they are so much more than a car), is too great.

[@onlineo2263]

@@harrisj67 it's not that simple though. You arrive to collect your Tesla, your previous car has already gone back (as the lease has finished, or you have sold it to a company that offered you £2k more than Tesla trade in) so you now need a car. Also you only get no claims bonus on 1 car so trying to insure 2 daily drivers for 1 person is rather expensive for the average person.

[@MILKYBAR1969]

@@onlineo2263 this exactly. 👍

[@egold33311]

Sounds like you have not experienced Tesla's Push out of the door delivery, they will fob you off, lie and cheat to get you out of the door, even get you to sign for the car and tell you its for something else.

[@wolfgangpreier9160]

They do not. The ranger is not a Tesla spokes person. You must insist that you get what you want. Yes, sometimes it takes 2 or 3 contacts and different sales/service people.

[@gordon1376]

Back on form, great video. I like the good old Yorkshire rant. Brill.

[@CyAn-S]

Yeah the "within the margins of Tesla" quote is very famous. They also use it for when you have foggy tail lights and a leaking boot lid.

[@savedfaves]

I leave a large panel gap between myself and owning a Tesla.

[@batandball617]

Your New Year’s Eve live stream was your best ever show, I watched it to the wee small hours. You are blessed with a fantastic family.👍

[@savedfaves]

I got drunk watching it and I don't even drink. Agree.

[@djwarren5081]

Is that your idea of a fun New Years Eve?

[@commuterbranchline8132]

@@djwarren5081 During lockdown, it was a great show!

[@kinross24]

Well said on the basics of panel gaps and basic car/coach building bodywork standards. If I had the panel gaps you described back in 1982 when I worked in a Lada dealership when pdi‘ing the garage lead technician would’ve kicked my arse right out of the garage! Simple and honest repairs are the least you expect from a new £10k car not just one costing over £40k!!

[@Porthcothen]

What were Lada £10k in the 80s? I thought you could buy one with 200 green shield stamps and a packet of salt and vinegar crisps and even less for copycat FSO polinaze !

[@Light23K]

You are absolutely correct. I love my model 3 but there is no excuse for them coming out with all these errors. What’s worst is when you told them where the errors are and yet they didn’t fix it.

[@tedbaxter5234]

Great update! It is wrong what Tesla did about those gaps. Stay safe and healthy!

[@scotlandteslatours]

Your videos have so much information in them I've been watching your videos for the past 9 months and I've recently bought an EV myself I got the VW ID.3 and loving it

[@ElectricCarAustralia]

Love the 'Yorkshire' man comments. Keep up the great work. 👍

[@ChaimLoecher]

👍 agree 100% ... Tesla is not perfect but 2 yrs & 30k miles Iater I would buy another M3! Good update 👍

[@Tetrapetaloudos1]

I would buy a BMW M3 as well mate👍

[@ChaimLoecher]

@@Tetrapetaloudos1 wow, I'm sorry, you might have not gotten the memo...your m3 has been dethroned by a different M3 ;) worldwide... stings alittle

[@audirs3564]

@@ChaimLoecher your model 3 is a piece of shit though and looks like it certainly 🤣. One of the ugliest cars on the road today and also so Slow Past 70 mph 🥱 A Golf R is faster .

[@rizulli]

Tesla's service (closest service centre is 400km away) and how the company has been run in recent years is the main reason we didn't go with the Model 3.

[@UnipornFrumm]

Well in that case tesla should not sell cars in uk right?

[@miker2769]

Proud Model 3 LR owner since Dec 19. Not a single issue to report to date, no blaring panel gap issues lucky me (tho certainly not perfect). Personally love the Dec UI update and found autopilot to be much more confident on motorway driving since. Seeing FAR fewer phantom braking instances. Love the channel 👍

[@user-jt1jv8vl9r]

I get people being proud of something they've created, but I've never understood being proud of something I just bought. Though I'd be extremely happy to own one.

[@grahamleiper1538]

Dec 2019 myself. Only problem I've had was the steering rack water ingress issue. Surprised you've not had the same.

[@vladimirputin4822]

@@user-jt1jv8vl9r Proud of being in the position to be able to own one? Proud of being intelligent enough to make that choice? Proud of no longer contributing to the damage fossil fuel cars cause?

[@Brianj162]

Bought my Model 3 last June, love driving it everyday, a super car. Wouldn't change it for the world 🌎. Love your vids by the way

[@axelc8611]

I have the same model 3 as you only real issue I have had is the headlight was rubbing slighting on the bumper when I first got it which lifted a tiny bit of paint of so they replaced the entire bumper for me instead patching a repair in. I find it very much depends who you get on the day at the service centre as to what quality of service you get. The Stockport branch at least will always try and fix anything you mention to them

[@nickieredshaw7835]

Thanks for another great video! Yer wish we could afford a model 3 or y . As wanted a Tesla for years even put a deposit down on day 1 of model 3 ! But couldn’t wait so got another car after 18 months or so . The wow factor and the ease of finding a chargers anywhere in Europe is a big + .

[@Puzray]

Will be picking mine up soon and the stress of finding issues with it on delivery day is already starting to play me up. No need for issues like that with a 40 grand car and if you were picking up a bmw you wouldn’t be worrying about it at all! Keep up the good work lad!

[@iKaGe01]

Hope it goes well! I'm very OCD and expect a few issues with a used but not a new car

[@miickyp]

I picked up my Model 3 Performance on the launch day almost 2yrs ago & still enjoy driving it as much today as I did back then, it's a phenomenal car. Only had 1 issue about a month ago with a faulty 12v battery. I booked a ranger thru the app, 3 days later he came to my house & replaced it FOC. No complaints at all & would definitely buy another if I had the choice again!

[@neddyl1225]

Nice rant! I love it. I think you are right in what you said.

[@user-jt1jv8vl9r]

If you watch a lot of gushing Tesla YT channels it makes a nice change to hear a rant.

[@jdear97]

I have had my Model 3 SR for just shy of a year and my experience has been similar; although I have reset the car on three occasions because I lost audio on the radio and bluetooth connection. The one issue that I have with the body is a paint defect on the passenger side mirror. For road trips in the US, the Supercharger Network was the big selling point. We also have an older BMW i3 which obviously have very limited range. My experience with the charging infrastructure has been hit or miss and the network is much more limited. I have given about a dozen people the chance to drive the car. Most find it impressive and a bit intimidating. Thanks for the update.

[@MikeDWinter]

Good review after a year. Have to say the build quality on my Shanghai made M3 is superb. Got to look at a few at the SC, you could tell the Fremont cars from the MiC ones pretty easily. They really should have fixed your bumper fit though.

[@davidpartington4617]

Picked up my M3 LR from Leeds December 2020 - I also noted panel gaps/misalignment on the rear boot (aka trunk) in particular. Post-Lockdown Tesla Newcastle had it for a couple of hours and did a very good job of re-aligning the boot lid. Otherwise, everything else has just worked (although thanks to lockdown I've only managed circa 1000miles so far) - completely agree with your sentiments EVM. About to set off to Scotland myself so can't wait to see how it fares.....

[@sandy7108]

well said about the panel gaps if they are held to task about those issues they will only get better

[@bbbf09]

3 or 4 years since launch now...not been getting better. How look should we give them?

[@malkum61]

Had my Model 3 for 6 months (shared 1000 miles with you!). Brilliant. The inverter went after 1 month but was also fixed superbly, no complaints. My biggest issue is the App (Android) only works for me 9 times out of ten, frustrating on a wet day only. Would absolutely buy again.

[@MJB9559]

Nice video….all good so far with mine 😜👍

[@andrewnewton7879]

Fully agree, love my white Model 3. Only issues since Nov 19 are condensation is rear lamps that the ranger came a fixed.

[@LikFenix]

Wow, a year already... I have followed you for a while during the period you were choosing, and I remember how you were selling the Leaf as “the new car” was coming. And now it has been more than a year. I have been looking around for a last couple of months to change my car, and yes, nothing is as convincing to me as Tesla Model 3 in terms of the whole package, especially the Supercharger network. For a few years I’ve been hoping that I’d be able to get a used one “cheaper”, but they are actually more expensive than new ones! (When accounting for gouvernement grants and eco-bonuses where I live).

[@JohnFields]

Howdy from Texas. 10KW solar and a 2018 Model 3 LRAWD. No issues and only 28K miles. Have done many trips including a 1600 mile Texas to Colorado run (drove through 5 states!). Handling during ice is superb. Couldn't be happier. Side note: while I would never own an ICE truck I am open to the CyberTruck. Hrmmm.

[@NigelWickenden]

I picked my M3LR up on New Year's Eve so get free supercharging for a year. The boot was touching the bodywork on the right hand side. Nottingham SC fixed that but could not do the paintwork for it as their paint shop hasn't opened yet. Great to drive and as you say, the superchargers just work with no card, app or other crap. Like you, I'd prefer a hatchback but that really is a first world problem.

[@Paul_]

Our Model 3 had more things wrong than just the bumper panel gap (all minor cosmetic things). Tesla fixed all the problems I reported, and some of them were reported many weeks after I first took the car home. But - you're right - these things shouldn't have passed any pre-delivery inspection. In my case I'm convinced Tesla needed to get the cars in customers' hands before the end of the quarter, to meet targets. We collected ours just 3 days before the quarter-end, so they weren't going to fix anything that didn't cause a buyer to reject a car on sight. But I do love the thing!

[@ankitpatel2626]

Lovely video as always 🤩. Would like to know your view on not so quiet cabin. For me it's not so great when on motorways have to put radio ON. When complained to Tesla they said it's normal for model 3 😌

[@TachaMarques]

great vid as always😎

[@macfast71]

Fully agree with you Andy. I love my 3 but it could always be better. I would love the seats from my previous Golf GTE to be in my 3 as the std ones are good and comfy but for a fast car, they are hopeless. Keep up the good work

[@steventhompson8585]

Took my model 3 SR+ to Alicante (2000km) last summer, just as you said, I put my destination in the sat nav and set off. The supercharger network gave me every confidence that I would arrive no problem, best of all it only cost 72 Euros to get there, Tolls and the Euro Tunnel were the biggest expense ;-)

[@mullman]

2021 3LR AWD here and 4,400miles in the first month. Had a huge trunk panel gap issue but I fixed it myself tweaking the four adjusters. Very easy.

[@TomCamies]

Used your link when I switched to octopus the other day :)

[@gregorysheppard9392]

Just coming up to my 1 year anniversary with the tesla m3 sr+. I had paint defect and marked interior trim on delivery and a faulty humidity sensor at 6 month mark. All were sorted very quickly at the height of lockdown 1 and 2 so my experience has been very positive with tesla service.

[@thelifeofbatteries2603]

I fixed one of those bumpers whilst fitting (one of many) Hansshow power lift kits. There are 3 small catches under the rear light and the outer ones weren't seated properly. Easy to fix if you have an 8mm spanner to remove the rear lights.

[@CED99]

Cool, though the point is if it's not right and a fix has been agreed, it should be delivered

[@wideboy38]

🤣🤣 had the same . everything has been fixed (or recalled and wire rework done) but gaps really annoy me and boot still does not close without slamming it down. still great car to drive and run and no range anxiety

[@grahambrown42]

Picked my Shanghai made M3 LR up 6 weeks ago, panel gaps perfect and paintwork like glass. No issues whatsoever, flawless. Oh and it's quite a good car!

[@CED99]

The 2021 changes seem to have included improved QA

[@Wheels-Wheels-Wheels]

Always good to hear what you have to say.

[@georgedaville4662]

I’m right on this rant with you about delivery defects. Panel gaps, steering wheel on the p*ss, (technical Yorkshire term), overinflated tyres...., the money were forking out for these dream chariots they should be bob/on. Personally I’m not fussed about the M3, I think the tide is changing, viz Ioniq5 and the likes this week. I agree that Tesla’s ace is the SC network, but it thins out rapidly away from the motorway networks. Good review as always👍

[@davekirk100]

Had my SR+ since Sept 2019, nothing wrong at all. It had some (very) minor paint spots which were noted and fixed shortly later, since then I've had one blackscreen issue, which put itself right after a few seconds, and I've had to refill the screen wash. Also, because I ordered on May 1st, I got the white interior, which you can't get now in the SR+, and got the foglights too, fitted by a ranger on my drive. 10000+ stress-free miles, so cheap to run, fun to drive, love it.

[@Les_Hewitt]

I've had my Model 3 for almost a year now and it's great. The only thing that has annoyed me is when I noticed that over the winter condensation would appear on the inside of the glass where the two pillar cameras are. This causes an error stopping autopilot from being enabled. I told Tesla about it and they said I should pre-heat the car before I go on any winter journeys. What they really meant was they couldn't fix it or it was a known problem too expensive to fix!

[@richardglover314]

Great video. I got my 3 in December last year and the thing that struck me was I realised I had never examined any of the previous new vehicles I have taken ownership of in the same way. Effectively I had been conditioned to look for faults instead of the pleasure of picking up my new car. So who knows what I might have missed on them. There is a miss-alignment of the left rear light but not enough to bother with and I have a service visit this week to fix a autopilot camera issue. Any way I love the car and named her Betty after my mum.

[@harrisj67]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts EVM! Yes, definitely the Tesla Model 3 is the benchmark for EVs at the moment, but they are not perfect. Love my car that is now coming up to 2 years old and no regrets, but coming from BMW ownership the finish quality does not live up to comparable cars of a similar price (ICE versions I guess). Nevertheless, I have found the service quite responsive and fixed all the issues I found at collection, as well as the few issues I have had since. Agree with you though, your gripe is real and should be dealt with without quibble. I am currently looking at a second EV and it is tough in Australia, as we do not have the diversity you see in Europe and the UK. Love the Telsa, but love my minis as well, so purchaced the Mini Cooper SE, which is to be delivered in June. Considering the cost for an SR+ is CHEAPER than the model we selected, it is difficult, but didn't want. a second Tesla really - the Mini Cooper SE is a lot of fun and we do not need the range as it is our daily runner. Looking forward to seeing more variety in the future.

[@stuart_thomas]

Took delivery of my m3 LR in December, arrived with scratch down the Centre console (with the new retractable closure), one camera non operating, paintwork on a door mirror unfinished and a deep gauge in rear window. Of course, this is unacceptable and Tesla got a tongue lashing like you wouldn’t believe. However, I can say I can’t fault after service and all issues have been rectified. Ubers were provided for two visits to service and mobile service sorted first issue. I must also admit, the ability to book/rebook these visits via the app was brilliant. Tesla have a lot of bumps to sort in their QC however, my experience since has been A1. Im not trying to brush under the carpet, the QC is a tiny slice of the ownership and this car is fantastic. There’s a lot of good solid EVs out there and I agree this is the benchmark. Keep up the good work 👍

[@TeamYankee2]

I've had my Model 3 SR+ for about 18 months - I went for the "free" black with white interior and opted for the FSD as well. when i ordered it the website showed it had front fog lights - on delivery day there were no front fogs and about 2 months later a Tesla Ranger fitted them in the work's car park. Panels gaps are all in order and no issues. Only one fault about a year in... the steering wheel leather was starting to ripple under your grip... reported to Tesla via the app and a Ranger came and swapped it for nowt. Been on the software "early access program" since October 2020 - eagerly awaiting the FSD Beta software. Best car ever...

[@chrisblunt4846]

Happy to report the panel gaps on my model 3 are pretty good. Though issue I had is they used some outsourced company to “clean” the car and had loads of swirl scratches. They are going to sort it in a couple Of weeks. But really they shouldn’t even bother doing a poor wash, I would of been happy to done it myself!

[@blobstrom]

I am finding now on different EV facebook forums, that if someone has had a minor accident and the panels are slightly out, people are now saying "It's still better panel gaps then a Tesla". I think the stigma has set in

[@ianthomas8743]

Got my M3 long range about the same time as you. Paint and pannel gaps were fine. Had two faults boot lid had water leaking into it repaired at service centre had a model S for a day and got back cleaned. Second fault was water in rear lights ranger come to my work and replaced all fine

[@Mrbfgray]

I'm a fanboy and investor... subbed. Some of this is painful but not uncommon enough, criticism is the root of improvement. I believe most of the build quality, fit and finish issues have been largely corrected by now but the service, etc.?...IDK.

[@shaunlongden7891]

Had my M3 just over a year, the only issue I’ve had is with a rear brake light failure, this was replaced under warranty really quickly, I’ve owned both a Nissan Leaf and a BMW i3 so I can agree with the comments about unreliable charging networks and that the Tesla charging network is outstanding in comparison although some of them are starting to get more busy, I’ve worked in automotive for 30 years, and speaking from experience,Tesla’s problem with panel gaps being inconsistent is not seen on other makes, the issues in some cases probably stems from poor design during development phases, when in full production it is difficult to change tooling and or suppliers, my opinion of the model 3 is that it is by far, the best car I’ve ever owned and I’m looking forward to the model Y coming to 🇬🇧 because the will be my next car.

[@TauZer01]

In my case, when I picked up the car, I did have an alignment issue in the hood, but they atually fixed it on the spot - when I drove it off the delivery center, it was already fixed. Then, about 6 months in, one of the repeater cameras went dead - reported in the app, and a couple of days later, the Mobile Service came over and swapped them. Those have been the only issues with the car so far, and they have actually dealt with them quite quickly. Otherwise, it has been a truly wonderful experience. The car is crazy-efficient and responds really well, the exterior is beautiful and smooth, the interior has the minimalist spaceship feel that I adore (not so keen on the updated center console, though), and the software is deliciously geeky - the whole experience is really enjoyable for me, as it ticks all my boxes ;) I’d still do it again, but its great to have more and more EV options to cater to all the different tastes.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Fellow Yorkshire lad here. Great vid!

[@iannixey8779]

Your absolutely right EVM, it’s not acceptable to have wonky panel gaps on any new car irrespective of cost or manufacturer.

[@JamesKirk1988]

So far, I've had no issues with Tesla Service (Florida). From Sales, to pickup, to Mobile Repair, to Service Center. All great. No major panel gap issues here. But I did have a couple of issues (2021 Tesla Model 3 Performance): 1. Charge Door Proximity Sensor. Mobile Tech replaced the entire charge door 2. Loud metal rattle developed on road trip, Service Center fixed it 3. Door Panel Rattles. Said they fixed, but still there. A little silicone WD-40 in certain spots seemed to help so far. 4. Recently noticed rear window to trunk seal has a spot where the seal is too far in, so there's no seal to catch water by the trunk lid there. Otherwise, the car has performed exactly as expected, and my service experience was surprisingly good. When I took in in for service, they thought it would just be a day stay, so they gave me uber credits. At 3pm, they called me back and told me to come in and get a loaner, as it wouldn't be done until Monday (I brought it in on Thursday). But they took care of me, an I was cruising around in a 2016 P90D for the weekend. Only complaint there was the lock in chill mode at 85MPH, lol.

[@iPeel]

After nearly a year with ours, my biggest gripe is the UI changes they made a couple of months ago by reducing the speed display in favour of a massive picture of my own car. When we test drove I never had an issue with the middle screen because of the display size, now I'd say I wouldn't agree with the lack of driver binnacle.

[@harrycrawford8517]

Agree with you about the bodywork checks and bad PDI process, should be better on any car but especially a £40-£50k car. I didn’t get any bodywork issues with my one though. I went for a dual motor LR, when it came it was the 2021 pre-Chinese model with heat pump and auto tail lift amongst other differences. I have had two problems since new, the heat pump stopped working on a cold weekend in December, and the auto tail lift does not always lift the tailgate. The heat pump issue was fixed with a computer reset, and following a software update I have never experienced it again. The tail lift issue remains and I will take it in to Tesla at some point but it’s no big issue to help it up for the first inch or two. Overall I love it and I agree with everything you have said as to why. Being a fellow Yorkshire man originally hailing from there I love the aspects of the car that make it comparatively cheap to maintain and run and I’m hoping that it will maintain a good residual value so I don’t lose too much when I trade it in for a Model Y once they are available from the German factory.

[@puntuated]

Bought mine on 1 May 2019 and absolutely no problems. Glove box = press right button on steering wheel and say "open glove box" brilliant! Rarely use touch screen. 'Gridserve' is the name of the hub you wanted and they're building the second one in Norwich as we speak. Next one I understand will be Leeds but don't quote me on that. Best car I've ever owned.

[@pr1811]

Bought a Model 3 in December 2020 the first of the refreshed models. On delivery it looked ok however later found the passenger door didn't shut properly and the passenger side front wheel arch lining was incorrectly fitted causing it to rub against the wheel when on near-full lock. Booked it in the to the service centre at MK, they provided a loaner and it was all sorted out in a few hours. Had a second issue a few weeks ago with the drivers side repeater camera going out (seemed a common issue on the first batch of refreshed models) again went to MK and they swapped it out in under an hour. Good service, but in my previous Audi the Bedford dealer would come to my work place and pick it up and drop it back to me before the end of the day on the one occasion I had warranty work and all the yearly services (even Seat MK came to Bedford and picked up my old Leon for servicing back in the day!), no way would Tesla do that, and I never get offered a ranger visit. Overall I've been happy with it so far, I'm not sure I have any brand loyalty to Tesla though, once the UK charging infrastructure is up to scratch and more 'legacy' manufacturers perfect their EV vehicles/software I could see myself going back to Audi or someone else. I do miss my 360 degree camera view and silly ambient blue/purple lighting I had in my old Audi A4 :(

[@brybish]

I've looked at 2 m3p's so far both had little imperfections but not as bad as I expected, maybe if the salesman had more knowledge of the car I may have bought it,I was showing him stuff thanks to videos like this. I am still looking, they are out in the trade now so impartial opinions and real values, so I will continue looking m3p is what I want.

[@3Dairspace]

Love the rant. Chris Moyles would be proud. :)

[@jameshaestier7150]

Yep, got a Tesla and ditto on most the experience. Some differences: - I have to a tow bar which mainly gets used for a bike rack. With four bikes on the back, the range comes down to about 140 miles. But you can just about reverse it into the supercharger without taking the bikes off. - I will definitely be swapping it for a model Y after three years, just so I can get bikes in and out the back easier. Some gripes: -there’s no rear wiper and the rear camera gets covered in spray if it’s raining so you can’t see at the back when it’s wet. Guess that doesn’t happen in California! - it locks itself too quickly so I end up running round the car with the charging lead so that I can open the charge port without getting my phone out.

[@williamfence566]

Appalling service from Tesla . Promising then not delivering, they could be in Government

[@jensdybrofrederiksen7922]

Nope they deliver, just longe time later than expected… 😉

[@craigevans6156]

For me the car (SR+) has been brilliant, one breakdown due to a faulty wiring loom. Drove to SW France last year and the charger network was faultless. Will probably go for a model Y next because of the space and hatchback.

[@domtdoodar99]

Had our 2014 model S 85 for 2.5yrs / 70k miles and it has been faultless, only made sense for us to get a tesla thanks to the supercharger and will be upgrading to a used 100D model S soon, they are truly great cars

[@dieseldavey]

My opinion is all round excellent. The only problem I have is a knock from front off side suspension going over bumps. It’s been back three times and still the same.

[@colinnich]

Had my M3LR since September. Wouldn't change it for the world. Still get a thrill every time I put my foot down, and a smug grin every time I use a supercharger.... 😀

[@colinnich]

@Mohsan Ali Raja as a previous Leaf owner, and someone who charges at home most of the time, I still wouldn't take on the hassle of having to be stuck with the non-Tesla charging network.

[@bbbf09]

I have same.. M3LR.However the acceleration surge was one of the things that disappointed. Probably because of my previous EV.. BMW i3 . This had 0-60 about 7sec vs sub 5sec for M3LR. But I suspect that off the start up to 40mph the i3 might be equal or slightly ahead. M3LR is of course no slouch ...but because my expectations were high thats why no extra thrill. Maybe also all the other problems I have it with M3 colours my view as well and means I am not impressed overall.

[@sheldonv8]

Great video as ever. . I bought my 2015 Model S after trying a couple of european EVs, namely VW eGolf and Peugeot e208 . . Both were horrible range-less gutless turds . . The Peugeot dealer pretty much said "If you want a motorway capable EV go and buy a Tesla, so that is exactly what I did. . Bought an "old" 70D because of the price (Same as a new e208) and the free supercharging and really don't think I'll be getting rid of it any time soon. . Absolutely love it and have recently bought an MG5 for my business so my weekly fuel costs have gone from £70 to about £7 charging from a Zappi and solar.

[@richardsmith2122]

I've had my S for 2 years now. Has there been niggles? Yes - mostly the edges of both screens going yellow. Would I change it? Never. It makes me smile every time I get in it.

[@MrKlawUK]

If/when gridserve upgrades all motorway services to multiple rapid chargers, that’ll do a lot to ease charger anxiety. Rugby just opened and looks great.

[@alaneasthope2357]

I never knew Elon was a yorkshire bloke. "What about the panel gap?". "That'll do".

[@YorkshireBeanie]

"Be reyt" The yorkshire term for.. Its fucked. but fuck it...

[@benholroyd5221]

That Birmingham isn't it?

[@mbrettharris5168]

I also have a Model 3 SR+. If I did it again, I would spring for the Long Range. Not because I need the range; I’ve taken it on several road trips without a hiccup. Including from Las Vegas Nevada to Dallas Texas and back, over 2,500 miles round trip. I want the long rang for the full premium audio. This car has a very good stereo, but knowing it can be better makes me want it, especially with the deactivated speakers staring me in the face.

[@JBoy340a]

We have 3 and X. Both have minor panel alignment issues. I hope they get this sorted. Maybe cars coming from Berlin or Austin will be better. Cars from Shanghai seem to have fewer body issues.

[@Muppetkeeper]

The lack of care regarding the panel gaps MUST be reflected in lack of care in other areas... Maybe one day the brakes will be within Tesla tolerance... Waiting for IB Buzz, it may be crap, but most likely not.

[@bmathieu5340]

I've had mine (LR version) for a year and a half. Brilliant car, and my wife tries to steal it any chance she gets, wich I let her do as one of the main points of this car, too often overlooked, is its safety (passive and active). When she goes somewhere with our toddler daughter, I'd rather she does it in a car that has the best safety rating you can get, there's no price tag on that. The biggest (basically only) sore point I've had with my TM3, is that I got it 4 months before the lockdown, and have been working form home ever since (as opposed to my 100km a day commute before) and so have been able to drive it less than what was planned. Still get a huge grin when I do take it on the road.

[@simonchetwynd]

Access to Tesla supercharger network is a huge advantage, especially for driving on the continent. European charging networks are every bit as chaotic as UK’s, just in a foreign language. In 5 months I’ve only had 1 issue with my M3. Got a windscreen replaced under warranty, couldn’t fault customer service at Winchester service centre.

[@rogerwilliams7234]

Wonderful rant but very true, nonetheless. Great content!

[@knoxieman]

I see so many model 3 now they are so common, slightly ironic that the original shape leaf you had before is actually much much rarer these days according to the website how many left and in many ways as the grandfather of all these cars that follows probably turns more heads and as time goes on will do even more to those that care.

[@ChrisUK27]

Things might improve from the Quality Assurance perspective when the Berlin Giga factory opens but it's no excuse on a 40k+ car.

[@Tom55data]

I have a TM-3 for nearly a year. The only problem I had was a cracked rear window due to the rear wind screen heater. It was fixed no problem by Tesla, the new one has an additional wire to reduce the temperature gradient. Best car I have had, but like you would like to try something else, but I worry about charger anxiety; and most other EV's are SUV's and I don't want one.

[@kimcorell7786]

I own the Tesla Model 3 SR+ as well. I also have owned it for 1 year now and it has been faultless! I live in the world's most remote metropol: Perth. I haven't had any issues with range even without superchargers. If the local number of supercharger locations is 1, is it still considered a network?

[@g2024_]

Gridserve is the charger hub, near Braintree

[@chrisabbott683]

Completely agree with you about quality control. It is clear that Tesla’s quality control, both at the factory and the delivery centres, is inadequate. Cars are being presented to customers that simply shouldn’t be. I also agree about the charging situation. The Tesla network is stunning - great coverage on most major routes and in my experience 100% reliable. Whereas the third party networks are patchy, at many locations there are only one or two chargers, and they are far from reliable. I’ve found Instavolt to be the best so far. Generally the Tesla tech is really good, although I still find autopilot a bit jerky and prone to sudden unnecessary braking on occasion. And the automatic wipers are, despite software updates, still poor compared to the rain sensor systems used by other manufacturers. Would I buy another? Yes. I would not buy a different EV make as long as the third party charging networks remain poor and, in particular, Ecotricity run the chargers on UK motorways.

[@paul_null]

Just rejected a 5 month old Fremont leaky model 3 after they attempted and failed to fix. My new replacement Made in China model 3 arrived on Friday :) just a watery rear light so far 😄

[@mattpitt]

We’ve got a SR+ - only thing that bugs me is the passenger door is slightly out. I’ll get this fixed one day but now living 2.5hrs drive from a service centre. Right now I’d say we would definitely get another Tesla - either this or a Y for the hatch and seven seat option. Another massive plus is the simplicity of package - the basic model has so much stuff in it. Legacy manufacturers charge a fortune in options for the level of comfort and convenience in the M3 entry level car. It cannot be beaten right now.

[@evexperience7756]

I have had my M3 since September. The day after we collected it we went from Munich Germany to Tours France. 1200km. It was easier and quicker than with our previous Ioniq Electric because of the supercharger network. Problems? Just 1. We had a connectivity issue where we would loose connection for a week or more if the car slept in a poor signal area. Had a service appointment and since then no issues. My summervtyres are on TheNewAero rims with 3rd party pressure sensors. That took a few days to register but that might have been more due to slow traffic speeds at first. What would I change. Again the glove box opening so my wife can open it as a passenger but tbh the glove box is so small it’s useless. I also wish I had ordered with a tow hook. Would I buy again? Yes. Maybe a MY instead as I prefer hatchbacks but really the boot is ok.

[@HairyCheese]

I agree with the QA. Our model 3 needed buffing when we picked it up. Also we had a rear window opening randomly. A quick Google and we recalibrated it. Never has any issues with any other new vehicle I've purchased. The super charger network is so good it's embarrassing, all it would take is to IOT everything, link it to Google maps, allow android auto to get the current SOC from your car and suddenly we're almost in the same place. Competition sometimes restricts function. Sorry, back to the topic, I believe Tesla is saving money on their QA by doing it as point of sale. It means you're not burning money up front on a product not yet sold (software mentality). Hopefully with their AI in vision, they'll have a robot having a camera check before the cars leave the factory in 2022.... Now let's see what the first German made Tesla looks like....

[@wrenchingfool5284]

Completely agree with your assessment after owning mine for 1 month. The delivery process sucked (constant delays), and the build quality sucks. The exterior panel gaps were fine, but the interior gaps were bad and the rattles are worse than any other new car I’ve ever purchased (6 total), despite the Tesla being the most expensive new car I’ve ever owned. Driving the car is fine, the technology is ok although I’ve had quite a few software bugs pop up especially after software updates. I think when you consider the whole package, it’s far from a perfect car, but it’s also really not being fully matched by anything currently available. Maybe it’s where I live, but the supercharger network is a minor role in my decision to buy one. In the US, Tesla’s can only fast charge on superchargers (I don’t consider buying a $500 adapter to charge at 1/5 peak speed a viable option) and CCS chargers outnumber superchargers substantially in this area. Most of the superchargers in this area are also not V3 so they charge much slower than peak speed. I think the biggest benefit (energy wise) is the efficiency. But I’d agree and I have said on my channel that I believe the Model 3 is the best combination of value, performance, efficiency and charging speed. And I say that as someone who has been quite critical of Tesla.

[@Loverboyz113]

I’m definitely checking for panel gaps on my delivery and if they tell me they’ll fix it then I’m not driving off the lot.

[@alanjrobertson]

Yep that's totally unacceptable behaviour from Tesla, 100% agree. I don't they they've got a leg to stand on legally given you only accepted it on the understanding that it would be fixed? They didn't install Homelink for me despite it being advertised when I bought it and I managed to get it retrofitted for free. They also backed down (eventually) on providing long term connectivity for those of us that had ordered pre-July 2019. It was a real fight though, I think they were used to the US consumer rights rather than UK, but I think it's up to us to ensure they don't get away with it, so I hope you keep pushing!

[@peterzerfass4609]

I seem to have had luck with the panel gaps on mine (2 years old now and they're perfectly fine). That said: I never looked at panel gaps on previous cars. They're just not what makes or breaks a purchase for me. Then again: I also don't really care what a car looks like as long as it serves its purpose well. I tend to sit in my car rather than stare at it from the outside...and couldn't care less about what other people think about how it looks.

[@crm114.]

Excellent update. I’ve had my Model 3 for 7 months now. No technical problems as of yet but like you, some build quality issues. Two doors slighly misaligned which I haven’t bothered to get fixed. I really like the car but the competition are carching up fast and Tesla will have to up their game to keep current customers including me.

[@savedfaves]

Ionic 5 and EV6 are hot on their tail. If Tesla doesn't get build quality and aftersales sorted I suspect it will come back to bite them in a few years.

[@CED99]

@@savedfaves Ionic 5 and EV6 both look to have quality panel gaps

[@Brian-om2hh]

The upshot was Cliff, that Tesla didn't know how to make cars, but their electric drivetrain was/is the best around. Whereas the competition knew how to make cars alright, but had zero or little experience of developing and manufacturing electric drivetrains. However, they are catching up *fast*. The South Koreans in particular are right at the top of EV manufacture and development these days, with their cars being some of the most efficient around. The new stunning Hyundai Ioniq 5 will steal sales from Tesla for sure, as might the Skoda Enyaq and VW ID3 and ID 4. Exciting times ahead, no doubt......

[@Brian-om2hh]

@@CED99 And also a history of decent build quality......

[@johnchapman3923]

Had a problem with my Model 3 a couple of months in- it wouldn't charge. Fix was delayed first by lockdowns, then by delay in Tesla getting a new charge port. Took it in when invited in due course, battery very low but due lockdown I wasn't intending to go anywhere so no problem. It stayed with Tesla best part of a week as the new part still hadn't arrived, but no worry, they arranged a loan car. They fixed the problem- an earthing screw not properly fixed, they said. I'm quite positive about Tesla still though, their customer liaison was very good and I'm pretty sure they'd have provided a loan car had the charging problem prevented me from using the car. The car is nice to drive, the Supercharger network is a USP, and Autopilot/"FSD" seems a benefit . However, the car's not perfect. 1) Autopark is extremely erratic, most times it doesn't see a parking space where I can; 2) the speed limiter is based on a "chime warning" if you go over set limit- I much prefer my old Leaf's system of simply preventing you exceeding the set limit unless you "kicked down" to over-ride it ; and 3) the car often misreads speed limit signs, reading signs on side roads as applying to the more major road you're travelling on. Also when you are in a 20mph zone, every time you turn into a new road it assumes that the outdated SatNav map's speed limit now applies, until it sees a Repeater sign..it ought to assume that the limit continues at 20 mph until it sees a sign to the contrary..

[@stonecoldsteveaustin4590]

THIS PROBABLY IS THE KINDEST RANT I HAVE EVER WATCHED CAN WE GIVE HIM A HELLL YEAHHHH!!!!!!

[@johnbb99]

There's no need to shout Steve, we can read you fine,😉

[@quicksilver40]

Before I bought my model Y I had a 2013 Nissan Leaf, and it had virtually no problems with it whatsoever. And everyone has a right to get their money's worth. I am very happy to say that my 2021 model Y was nearly flawless too.