2017 — 2020
Long Range RWD - Single Motor
Electric
Navigate to a quiet road and listen for any knocking sounds from the front suspension when steering at low speeds; control arms and ball joints on pre-facelift models can sometimes show wear as they age.
Check the infotainment responsiveness by opening the browser and map applications; ensure there is no significant lag, as some earlier hardware revisions may eventually struggle with newer software updates.
Inspect the exterior door handles for smooth operation; ensure they retract fully without sticking, as the internal mechanical components can occasionally require a clean or adjustment.
Verify that all windows operate smoothly by rolling them up and down completely; look for any abnormal sealing gaps or hesitation that might suggest the motor or regulator is working harder than it should.
Consider having the cabin air filters replaced and checking the brake fluid moisture content, as this is a common interval for standard vehicle upkeep.
At this stage, it is often wise to have the suspension bushings and drive unit mountings visually inspected to ensure everything is still performing as expected.
Depending on the car's driving history, this is a good point to review the health of the 12V battery system to prevent any unexpected electronic resets.
Keep an eye on your tyre tread depth, as the instant torque of the Long Range motor can lead to slightly quicker wear on the rear tyres.
Periodically wipe down the door seal rubbers with a silicone-based protectant to keep them supple and prevent annoying squeaks.
Ensure your charging port is free of debris and the pins are clean; a quick visual check can help maintain a reliable connection.
Follow the recommended intervals for brake fluid flushes to keep the braking system—which is used less frequently due to regenerative braking—in top condition.
Clean the cabin air filters regularly, especially if you drive on dusty NZ roads, to keep your interior smelling fresh and the air circulation efficient.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
As these batteries power the car's electronics, they tend to reach the end of their service life after a few years. It is helpful to plan for this simple swap to avoid getting stuck with a car that won't 'wake up'.
If the car has spent its life on rougher NZ backroads, you might eventually need to budget for refreshing the front control arm bushings or ball joints to maintain that smooth handling feel.
In some Tesla models, the climate control desiccant bag can degrade over time. If you notice the AC struggling to dehumidify, it's worth having a technician check this as part of a routine cooling system service.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer