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Tesla Model 3: which year should you buy?
We scored the 2017 to 2024 Tesla Model 3 year by year. None has a matured-enough record to earn an outright “Buy” yet, so treat this as a map of relative risk and lean on a professional inspection.
Every model year, scored
Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.
202465/100
Caution
199 complaints · 4 recalls
202346/100
Caution
411 complaints · 11 recalls
202245/100
Caution
748 complaints · 17 recalls
202147/100
Caution
647 complaints · 21 recalls
202050/100
Caution
432 complaints · 20 recalls
201947/100
Caution
591 complaints · 21 recalls
201846/100
Caution
980 complaints · 18 recalls
201764/100
Caution
25 complaints · 15 recalls
Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2024 Tesla Model 3 head-to-head →
The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Tesla Model 3 as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.