A Tesla Model 3's Journey to 100,000 Miles: The Surprising Cost Breakdown
A man's adventure with a second-hand electric vehicle (EV) has sparked curiosity. This individual, let's call him Tim, purchased a pre-owned Tesla Model 3 with 57,000 miles on the odometer and embarked on a journey to reach 100,000 miles. But here's the intriguing part: he documented the entire cost breakdown, and it's quite the eye-opener!
Tim's story was featured on the YouTube channel Chargeheads, where his trusty Tesla, affectionately named 'Rustee', gained attention. The goal was to see if this high-mileage EV could reach the 100,000-mile milestone without breaking the bank.
So, what was the verdict? Well, it's a mixed bag. Initially, it seemed like a costly endeavor, especially considering the common belief that high-mileage cars are maintenance nightmares. But, surprisingly, Rustee only required minor adjustments, like a lowered suspension, to keep it running smoothly.
And here's where it gets controversial: despite the skepticism, Rustee proved to be a reliable companion, much like the famous Tesla Model S that reached 1.6 million miles or the Volvo that hit 3.2 million miles without a single breakdown. But, the question remains: how much did Tim spend to achieve this feat?
The total cost to add 44,000 miles to Rustee's journey? A mere $1,700, including a safety inspection failure that Tesla rectified for $870. Even tire replacements, which can be pricey, only set him back $290. Compared to a traditional gas-powered vehicle, Rustee's maintenance was a bargain!
But the real surprise was the battery. With 88% capacity remaining, it still delivered an impressive 283 miles on a full charge and 220 miles at 80%. That's a slight reduction in range, but still highly efficient.
This story challenges the notion that high-mileage cars are always expensive to maintain. But is this the norm, or just a lucky break? What do you think? Are EVs more cost-effective in the long run, or is this a rare occurrence? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
