When we think about electric vehicles (EVs), questions about longevity, maintenance, and reliability often come to mind. One Tesla Model 3 owner, Nishant Soni from California, has gone the distance - literally. His 2018 Dual Motor Long Range Model 3 has surpassed 180,000 miles, a milestone that’s impressive not just for an EV but for any car. What makes his journey remarkable is the minimal maintenance required to reach this point.
Sharing his story in the TESLA High Mileage CLUB Facebook group, Nishant writes:
"I am happy to report that I’ve hit 180k miles in my 2018 Dual Motor Long Range Model 3. Approximately 15% battery degradation over that time, and one somewhat major repair to the air conditioning unit: namely, superbottle replacement at about 120k costing about $2,500. The maintenance of my Tesla Model 3 involved DIY replacement of the air cabin filters every 2 years and tire changes. A small amount of creaking on full rotation of the steering wheel and creaking of the driver’s door upon opening. Much of my charging has been at work for free. Still excited to drive my Model 3 every day, and the 'enhanced autopilot' has made a massive improvement in my long daily commute. I am grateful to be able to drive it and looking forward to seeing how long this ride continues."
See how Nishant maintained his Model 3 and cust costs in this video from the Torque News Youtube Channel by clicking on the video's title and watching it on Youtube for a better resolution.
The Model 3's Path to 180,000 Miles
Nishant’s experience with his Model 3 offers valuable insights into what it takes to achieve high mileage with an EV. One major repair stands out: the superbottle replacement at 120,000 miles. For those unfamiliar, the superbottle plays a critical role in Tesla’s thermal management system, maintaining optimal temperatures for the battery, drive units, and cabin climate. Its importance cannot be overstated, as it ensures consistent performance and longevity of the vehicle's core systems. Issues like weak air conditioning performance and loud fan noises often signal the need for a superbottle replacement, highlighting its significance in ensuring a comfortable and reliable driving experience. For those unfamiliar, the superbottle is a critical component of Tesla’s thermal management system, ensuring the battery and cabin climate are effectively regulated. According to Nishant, the symptoms of needing a new superbottle included weak air conditioning performance and loud, airplane-like fan noises.
Another group member, John Van Dyke, shared his similar high-mileage journey, saying, “I’ve had a similar experience with my 2019 DMLR 3 without (Thank God) the A/C repair. Same creaks and groans even!” It’s a reminder that while Tesla’s technology is cutting-edge, minor quirks like creaking doors and steering noises can become part of the ownership experience as miles add up.
Maintenance for Nishant’s Tesla has otherwise been refreshingly minimal. In addition to replacing cabin air filters every two years and keeping up with tire changes, much of the cost savings comes from his ability to charge at work for free. This significantly reduces the cost of ownership over time, highlighting one of the biggest advantages of driving an EV.
Tesla Model 3's Battery Longevity and Performance
After 180,000 miles, Nishant reports around 15% battery degradation, which aligns with industry averages for EVs of this age and mileage. For comparison, studies on EV battery performance, such as those by Recurrent Auto, indicate an average degradation rate of 10-15% over similar timeframes. A 2018 Long Range Model 3 originally offered an EPA-estimated range of 310 miles, meaning Nishant's car still delivers around 263 miles: an excellent range for daily use and road trips alike. For more insights into how Tesla batteries hold up over time, check out this report on Tesla Model 3 range after 100,000 miles and how much range a Model 3 Standard Range can retain after five years.
Group member Oz Vasques, who has driven 160,000 miles in his Model 3, commented: “My daughter likes it better than our 2021. So much softer and smoother ride.” This perspective underscores how the ride quality of an older Tesla can still rival - or even surpass - that of newer models.
DIY Maintenance and Cost Savings
One of the standout aspects of Nishant's journey is the amount of DIY maintenance he's done on his Tesla Model 3. Replacing the air cabin filters every two years is a simple task that can be done at home, saving hundreds in labor costs over the life of the vehicle. Regular tire maintenance and alignment checks are also critical for ensuring the car’s performance and efficiency remain optimal.
Tesla’s regenerative braking system deserves special mention here. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs like the Model 3 experience significantly reduced wear on brake pads thanks to regenerative braking. This not only extends the lifespan of components but also lowers overall maintenance costs.
For an in-depth look at Tesla’s efficiency and battery performance over time, you might find this article on LFP batteries after 43,000 miles insightful.
The Road Ahead
Nishant’s story is a testament to the durability and practicality of Tesla’s Model 3, even as it racks up high mileage. Despite minor creaks and one significant repair, his Model 3 continues to provide reliable, enjoyable daily transportation. The “enhanced autopilot” has been a game-changer for his lengthy commute, reducing fatigue and making the driving experience more seamless.
As more Tesla owners hit similar mileage milestones, stories like Nishant’s remind us of the importance of proper maintenance and the potential for EVs to go the distance. Whether it’s through DIY efforts or taking advantage of Tesla’s advanced technology, achieving high mileage in an EV is increasingly becoming the norm rather than the exception.
What’s Your High-Mileage Tesla Story?
Have you pushed your Tesla to 100,000 miles or beyond? What maintenance challenges have you encountered, and how have you addressed them? Let us know in the comments below please. We’d love to hear your experiences. And if you’ve had to replace your superbottle, what symptoms did you notice beforehand? Your story might just inspire others to keep their EVs running strong for years to come
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
Comments
I have 67,000 miles on my…
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I have 67,000 miles on my 2017 Tesla Model 3 and a 22,000 miles on my 2016 Model S. After some 3 teething, where I was on first name basis with the SC and a dedicated programmer, it’s been tires, a suspension tie (S) and a coolant pump (3).
Between energy and maintenance I figure the savings is almost equal to the joy of driving.
MY Honda pasted 999,999 and…
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In reply to I have 67,000 miles on my… by Robert P (not verified)
MY Honda pasted 999,999 and used not soo much gas.. I am sure other cars can close to this too.
That is what i call a reliable vehicle.
I'll bet this car doesn't…
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I'll bet this car doesn't live in the rust belt.
You really had to use AI for…
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You really had to use AI for your image? It's crap.... It would have taken 5 minutes at most to find a real photo of a model 3 and write something on it with mspaint.
Hi Joe. I think the image…
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In reply to You really had to use AI for… by Joe (not verified)
Hi Joe. I think the image isn't bad. In fact, it conveys the message. I didn't have a good image at hand and didn't want to use a stock Tesla image from Tesla's media page.
How does 173K miles on a…
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How does 173K miles on a 2016 Model X P90, dual motor compare for EV Longevity? 8.5 years now. Estimate about $20K in service expenses over those years, about $4K in new tires (front and back tires replaced about 4 times over the 8 years), and some minor body repairs, and U Joints replaced X2. Not Horrible. Hope to keep it going another couple of years, just hope that I don’t have to replace the primary Battery Pack. Thanks. Will let you know when this one reaches 180K.
I have a Prius with 150k…
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I have a Prius with 150k miles, I do tires and oil change every 10k miles. No problems. Is that regular, probably not, but no one is writing stories about my friend's Tesla, who is on his second battery for nearly the price of a new car. Also these people should also be changing the oil on their Teslas. My friend has also replaced one rear drive unit because he didn't change the oil at 20k or whenever.
What are you talking about?…
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In reply to I have a Prius with 150k… by Kirk (not verified)
What are you talking about? Drive units have lubricant that could be replaced every 100k if you’re picky.. 20k is complete misinformation. Also, I hope you’re using full synthetic oil if you’re going only every 10k.
2020 DMLR w/ acceleration…
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2020 DMLR w/ acceleration boost with 186,693mi on the ODO. I have a 140mi round trip commute for work Mon thru Fri. Free charging at work. Charge to 80% every work day. Occasionally charge over 80% on trips to Vegas. Full charge is right around 270mi. Only 3x service appts, first was 12v battery replacement back in 2022 $85, windshield washer reservoir replacement $280 in 2024 and lastly low performance A/C turned out was due to obstructed radiator/condensor (techs cleared debris) $540 also last year. Tires are replaced yearly. Self replace cabin filters yearly as well.
We’ve had our 2018 DMLR 3…
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We’ve had our 2018 DMLR 3 for 6 1/2 yrs and it has 135k miles, and about 85% of original range. Within the first month (Under warranty) there was a steering column issue where they replaced it and no issues since with that.
Other things:
- cabin air filter once
- wipers twice
- tires
- 12V battery replacement ($117)
- replaced center rear seat buckle ($166)
- new dead front pin in charge port ($53)
Total unexpected maintenance: $336
I live in a northern state with salty roads.
I have a model y that I…
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I have a model y that I currently have 157000 miles on it’s a 2021 and I really haven’t had any issues with the car that I can complain about I have noticed that fan noise I didn’t know what that was but now I know what it is I can have it looked at Other than that it’s pretty much a good car no other issues I have with it
I have 2017 100d model X…
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I have 2017 100d model X 293000 had to replace almost the entire front suspension for 5000.00
I have over 180,000 miles on…
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I have over 180,000 miles on my Kia with under <$1K in non maintenance repairs, but I didn't put a sticker on it because I'm normal, not a Tesla owner