A Tesla Model 3's Journey to 100,000 Miles: The Surprising Cost Breakdown
The quest for a reliable used electric vehicle (EV) is a gamble, but this story might just change your perspective.
Tim, a bold adventurer in the world of EVs, purchased a pre-loved Tesla Model 3 with 57,000 miles on the odometer. His mission? To push it to the 100,000-mile milestone and share the financial journey. But here's the twist: it wasn't as expensive as one might think.
On the YouTube channel Chargeheads, viewers were introduced to 'Rustee,' a well-traveled Model 3. Tim's goal was to prove the car's longevity, but the real question was: at what cost?
High-mileage cars often come with a laundry list of issues, but this Tesla seemed to defy the odds. Aside from minor adjustments like lowered suspension, Rustee didn't require extensive maintenance. And when it comes to EVs, battery health is crucial. Impressively, the car's battery retained 88% capacity, offering a range of 283 miles at full charge and 220 miles at 80%.
But here's where it gets controversial: the total cost to reach 100,000 miles was just $1,700, primarily due to a safety inspection failure. Tesla's repair cost was $870, a fraction of what third-party EV specialists might charge. Even tire replacements were a mere $290.
This story challenges the notion that high-mileage cars are always costly to maintain. But is it an anomaly, or the new normal for EVs? The debate is open.
For a detailed breakdown, head over to the Chargeheads YouTube channel and decide for yourself. Are high-mileage EVs the future of affordable transportation, or is this just a lucky break? Share your thoughts in the comments!
