Tesla Model 3 — real battery degradation after 50k miles?

Started by Model3Miles · 28 August 2026 · 38 views · 3 replies
28 August 2026
I'm looking at a 2021 Model 3 SR+ with 48k miles. The dealer says the battery health is around 92% based on their scan, which sounds decent, but I've read mixed things about LFP vs NMC degradation curves.

Long-term Model 3 owners: what does your range actually show now vs when new? And is there anything specific I should check on a 50k-mile example before buying?
28 August 2026 · #2
A 2021 SR+ is NMC (LFP came to UK SR+ in late 2022). 92% at 48k miles is normal-to-good for NMC. Expect roughly 8-12% loss over the first 5 years, then it flattens. Check the service history for coolant service and tyre wear — Model 3 eats rear tyres.
28 August 2026 · #3
Thanks — that matches what I've seen. The rear tyres point is real, mine needed replacing at 22k and 44k.
24 September 2026 · #4
Morning! Mine's a Mini Electric, not a Tesla, but I reckon 50k miles is nothing for modern batteries. A chap at the Lewes farmers market does the South Downs runs in his Model 3 and he’s on 60k with barely any drop. To be fair, if you stick to Octopus Go at home and avoid InstaVolt every day, it’ll last ages. Are you mostly doing motorway miles? Must be lovely up the Downs anyway!

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