40K 2019 Tesla Model 3

Long-term test. After tracking every charge, service, problem, complaint, dent, and dog hair, car and driver presents the 40,000-mile evaluation. Beyond the noise

- By Dave Vanderwerp. Photography by Michael Simari

ARRIVAL OCTOBER 2019

DEPARTURE SEPTEMBER 2021

We ordered a long-term Tesla Model 3 for one primary reason: to be able to report on using Tesla's Full Self-Driving software over time. Well, the joke's on us, because after we spent $6000 on that option (the price is now double that) in 2019, our car came and went without ever getting it. Paying for an option we didn't receive is definitely a first, one of many when it came to the Model 3. Had we instead invested that money in Tesla stock, we could've cashed out with as much as $150,000. Another new experience was being alerted via a mobile app that our car had a catastrophic breakdown while parked. Other than that biggie, which required a new $2500 rear-motor assembly that was replaced under warranty, our car had no major mechanical issues. After coming to terms with the minimalist interior and lack of gauge-cluster display in front of the driver, we generally liked the Model 3. It's quick, reasonably spacious, and comfortable if a bit noisy over the road.

This was only our second long-term EV ever. The previous one was a Model S five years ago, back when Tesla service was white glove and Supercharging was free. A lot has changed since then, and today there's much more noise about EVs as well as bold claims about the cost (or lack thereof) of charging and service. What follows is a series of things to know regarding both Tesla and EV ownership before you decide to take the plunge.

EFFICIENCY IS EXTREMELY VARIABLE