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Debuting in 2019, the Tesla Model 3 is the best-selling electric car in Australia (and globally).
The Model 3 comes in three variants that are distinguished by different drivetrain and battery pack configurations for different needs and budgets. These are summarised in the below table.
The base model, known simply as the Model 3 or the rear-wheel drive (RWD) version, starting from $63,900, is the cheapest and by far the most popular variant.
Learn more about the Tesla Model 3
🔍 Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y: Spec comparison
Does the Tesla Model 3 Need Servicing?
The Tesla Model 3 does not require scheduled servicing like most cars, however, it does require some maintenance and service. According to Tesla, the Model 3 does not require "traditional oil changes, fuel filters, spark plug replacements or emission checks".
The Tesla Model 3 was designed to have less frequent and less extensive maintenance needs compared to petrol cars. This is due to several factors, including:
⚡ Electric drivetrain: Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes or other traditional engine maintenance.
📶 Over-the-air updates: Tesla is able to remotely perform software updates that can fix issues and improve performance without the need for a physical visit to a service center.
📊 Predictive maintenance: Tesla's use of sensors and data analysis allows for proactive maintenance, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
Tesla Model 3 Service Schedule and Costs
Unlike other manufacturers (both electric and petrol), Tesla vehicles does not have fixed or scheduled servicing intervals. It does however provide a recommended maintenance schedule for several items that should be checked or replaced periodically:
Tesla Model 3 services costs equate to an average of $225 per year, compared to $1567 per year for the average petrol vehicle.
Key Maintenance Items of a Tesla Model 3
Regular or Scheduled Maintenance
The following items will require maintenance. We've included guidance from Tesla where specified however the frequency will depend on your specific circumstances.
- Tyre rotation every 10,000 kms depending on tread depth
- Brake pad replacement
- Engine air filter replacement
- Windshield wiper blade replacement
- High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter replacement - replace every two years
- Brake fluid flush - test every two years
- Drive unit coolant replacement
- Front and rear suspension lubrication
Battery Maintenance
The main guidance Tesla provides for battery maintenance is around charge limits for daily use.
| Rear-Wheel-Drive | The recommended setting is 100% due to the LFP battery chemistry which has significantly lower degradation. |
| Performance | The recommended setting is 90% due to the NMC battery chemistry which has a relatively shorter cycle life and is more prone to degradation. |
Generally speaking to maximise an electric car's battery life avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
Where Can You Service the Tesla Model 3?
You can service the Tesla Model 3 at any of the Tesla Service Centres.
Most mechanics should also be well-equipped to undertake the basic servicing required for the Tesla Model 3.
MyCar has specialist EV servicing Centres around Australia.
Servicing the Tesla Model 3 at a non-Tesla provider will not void your warranty.
About the author
Danny Thai
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data. He is the founder of zecar and is currently the EV Innovation Manager at Endeavour Energy.
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