Celebrating 5 Years with the Tesla Mannequin 3 SR+
It’s arduous to consider, however I’ve simply marked the five-year anniversary of proudly owning my Tesla Mannequin 3 SR+. On this overview, I will study the automobile’s efficiency over these years, spotlight what I really like about it, what has been much less favorable, and if it might final one other 5 years.
To start, not a lot has modified in regards to the automobile basically throughout these 5 years. Whereas a number of parts required fixing or alternative—particulars of which I’ll share together with their prices—my charging experiences have been considerably distinctive. I’ve benefited from free Supercharging for a good portion of this timeframe, which complicates generalizations about charging prices. Moreover, put on and tear, notably on the Mannequin 3’s white vegan leather-based seats, may be of curiosity to many, in addition to the difficulty of battery degradation—particularly, how the driving vary on full cost has shifted over time.
I can even make clear the “Full Self Driving” (FSD) possession expertise, how the group response to Teslas has developed through the years, and the options supplied by means of over-the-air software program updates.
This text is meant to help anybody considering the acquisition of a brand new Tesla Mannequin 3, a used Tesla, or any electrical automobile. You probably have particular questions or extra areas of curiosity, be at liberty to succeed in out within the feedback. I do know many readers have intensive expertise with Tesla automobiles, so your insights are additionally welcome.
General Satisfaction
General, my household and I are very happy with our Mannequin 3. As a household of 4, it serves as our sole automobile, adequately assembly our wants over these 5 years. Whereas there have been occasional transport necessities for bigger gadgets that necessitated the usage of a good friend’s SUV or truck, the Mannequin 3 has successfully accommodated every part from sporting gear to seashore necessities.
For lengthy drives round Florida, Supercharging has been extremely handy. I went for the lower-range Mannequin 3, assured that it might meet our wants with out incurring further prices for added battery capability. Trying again, I really feel happy with that selection, as I would not have gained far more from a variant designed for longer ranges.
I debated the choice to pick the white seats initially, however finally, I’ve no regrets—particularly in a heat local weather like Florida, the place they’ve confirmed snug and cooler. After all, they don’t seem to be impervious to put on, which I’ll focus on later.
Driving the Mannequin 3 is a pleasing expertise; I genuinely consider there’s no higher possibility obtainable available on the market that I would like. Though I haven’t examined fashions just like the Hyundai IONIQ 6 or the costlier Porsche Taycan, the sooner Mannequin 3 does have a few disadvantages: insufficient sound insulation and a suspension that may be jarring, making it really feel bumpy on uneven roads. The highway noise may be fairly pronounced throughout interstate journey. Nonetheless, the newer Mannequin 3 variants have considerably enhanced these options, making them a way more gratifying expertise.
I proceed to understand the minimalist inside of the Mannequin 3, with its superior infotainment system and seats which stand out within the U.S. market.
Upkeep & Repairs
As of December, my whole upkeep prices reached $3,199.59—an expense that has remained unchanged since buying my third set of tires. Over 61 months, this interprets to about $52.45 a month. I did encounter a problem regarding the entrance passenger seat’s security restraint system, however it was lined underneath guarantee, resulting in no extra prices.
Put on & Tear
The damage and tear on the automobile have been minimal, with probably the most notable subject being the steering wheel materials, which began to bubble roughly two years in the past. Tesla changed the wheel, and it has carried out effectively since. Nonetheless, I’ve obtained quite a few feedback on my YouTube video about this from others experiencing comparable issues, some needing to pay for replacements out-of-pocket. I stay vigilant about this potential recurring subject.
There are minor discolorations on some areas of the white seating, however general, they’re holding up admirably. I observed that Tesla has eradicated a cloth part in newer fashions, opting as an alternative for all fake leather-based, which is helpful for future consumers.
I’ve additionally noticed slight variations within the supplies of the seating after years of use; nevertheless, the seats stay visually interesting and cozy. I’m curious how they may evolve over the subsequent 5 years.
One small space of damage has developed within the cupholder of the driving force’s door, the place the leather-like materials is coming free. Whereas it’s a minor subject, I’m conscious of it and will attempt to treatment it with some adhesive.
Battery Degradation
Initially, my Mannequin 3 showcased a spread of about 230 miles on a full cost, however this has since stabilized at round 200 miles after the primary 12 months. This degradation aligns with widespread patterns the place batteries usually expertise an early drop adopted by a secure interval. I am not notably involved about battery longevity, as I anticipate it should retain ample vary all through the automobile’s lifespan.
Tesla Full Self Driving (FSD)
Over time, I’ve diligently tracked the progress of Tesla’s Full Self Driving expertise. Whereas there have been intervals of stagnation, the latest iteration—model 12—has made vital strides. Elon Musk as soon as indicated that the capabilities we see immediately can be obtainable again in 2019, and whereas we aren’t on the degree of robotaxi capabilities but, it seems like we’re edging nearer. Nonetheless, the timeline for full self-driving readiness stays unsure, and I’ve issues about inconsistent progress throughout totally different functionalities.
Tesla within the Neighborhood
After we first acquired our Tesla Mannequin 3, youngsters would get excited after they noticed it within the college pickup line, though a number of Teslas had been already on the college. As time has handed, Teslas have change into a typical sight, virtually akin to the Toyota Corolla or Camry in our space. These days, the youth appear much less impressed by our Mannequin 3, though the arrival of a Cybertruck on the college has definitely stirred pleasure.
Over-the-Air Software program Updates
Initially, the over-the-air software program updates spoiled me with new options like Netflix, YouTube, and recreation choices. The updates additionally included an effectivity increase to increase most vary. Nonetheless, newer updates have been much less impactful. Whereas there are new options and occasional UI enhancements, I anticipated extra steady innovation in options and capabilities over time.
Would I Purchase the Tesla Mannequin 3 Once more?
Definitely! Nonetheless, if I had been to buy a brand new automobile immediately, my desire would probably lean in the direction of the Tesla Mannequin Y, Kia EV6, or Hyundai IONIQ 5. I discover the exterior design of the Ford Mustang Mach-E interesting, however I favor the inside expertise of the opposite fashions.
The selection of an electrical automobile immediately hinges extra on private aesthetics than it as soon as did, as many automakers have now supplied a spread of aggressive choices with ample options and affordability, and most have ensured compatibility with Tesla’s Superchargers.
In conclusion, my five-year journey with the Tesla Mannequin 3 SR+ has been overwhelmingly constructive, and I encourage any potential electrical automobile purchaser to contemplate their choices fastidiously based mostly on private wants and preferences.
