The Mega Car Review Podcast
Choosing a car? We review all the top selling (and the not so top selling) cars, from the popular to the supercar and also discuss how much they cost and all the facts you need to know about comparable cars, running costs, insurance and much more.
Your hosts, Marv and Claudia will talk you through the types of each make and model, discuss the best features, engine types, running costs and highlight the nest and worst of each.
At the end of each episode they will also identify comparable cars and discuss how many are for sale and the prices you are likely to pay.
The Mega Car Review Podcast
Buying a Pre-Loved Tesla Model 3: All You Should Know
In this episode of The Mega Car Review Podcast, Marv and Claudia turn their focus to one of the most talked-about electric vehicles on the market – the Tesla Model 3. Whether you’re a seasoned Tesla fan or someone just starting to explore the world of EVs, this episode is packed with everything you need to know about this groundbreaking car.
Join our hosts as they take a deep dive into the performance, features, and driving experience of the Model 3. They cover all the key details – from acceleration and range to interior tech and design. Marv, always the performance enthusiast, breaks down the car’s speed and handling, while Claudia digs into the practicality of owning a Model 3, from charging infrastructure to how it stacks up against traditional petrol-powered cars.
They don’t shy away from discussing the controversies either. Is Tesla living up to its hype when it comes to build quality? What about customer service and reliability issues that have made headlines? Our hosts give you an honest, unfiltered view of where Tesla shines and where there’s room for improvement.
But it’s not just about the nuts and bolts. Marv and Claudia explore the bigger picture: what does the Tesla Model 3 mean for the future of the automotive industry? They discuss how Tesla is pushing the boundaries of electric vehicles and whether the Model 3 can truly be the “car for the masses” that Elon Musk envisioned. Plus, they compare it to other electric competitors on the market, so you’ll know if it’s really the best option out there.
If you’ve ever wondered if the Tesla Model 3 lives up to its iconic status, or if you’re just curious about the future of electric cars, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Marv and Claudia have done the legwork, so you don’t have to.
Expect lively debates, practical tips, and expert insights as they weigh the pros and cons of owning a Tesla in 2024.
Episode Highlights:
•In-depth performance review of the Tesla Model 3
•Breakdown of battery range, charging time, and cost of ownership
•Comparisons with other electric vehicles in the same class
•Discussion on Tesla’s place in the future of the car industry
Tune in now for a full review of the Tesla Model 3, and hear what Marv and Claudia really think about this electric powerhouse!
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Mega Car Review Podcast so you never miss an episode. Leave a review and let us know what you think about the Tesla Model 3 or which car you want to hear about next!
Welcome to the Mega Car Review Podcast from Confoundered, your go-to show for everything cars, whether you're a gearhead or just shopping for your next set of wheels. Every week, your hosts, marv and Claudia, dive into the latest automotive trends, give hands-on reviews and share the insights you need to make the smart decisions in the world of cars From the hottest models to market secrets. Marv and Claudia have you covered. Get ready for expert opinions, lively debates and all the details you won't hear anywhere else. So let's join Marv and Claudia for another episode of the Mega Car Review Podcast.
Speaker 2:Okay, so Tesla right. They're everywhere these days.
Speaker 3:Yeah, they've really made a splash.
Speaker 2:It's that tech, that performance. I mean, you kind of can't help but notice them.
Speaker 3:It's hard to ignore that instant torque. Exactly.
Speaker 2:Yeah, but today we're talking used, we're diving into whether a USD Model 3 makes sense because, let's face it, not everyone's got the cash for a brand new one.
Speaker 3:Smart move, thinking used. There's a lot to consider.
Speaker 2:Which is exactly why you're here. But before we get into the used market, nitty gritty, those Model 3s come in a few different versions, right?
Speaker 3:They do yeah.
Speaker 2:Could you give us a quick rundown, just so everyone's on the same page?
Speaker 3:Sure thing.
Speaker 2:So you've got your standard range plus, which is kind of like the base model. But don't let that fool you. It still gets a solid 267 miles on a single charge. Not too shabby at all, but I'm guessing most people want more.
Speaker 3:Oh, absolutely. And that's where the long range steps in. We're talking a much healthier 374 miles, perfect for those longer hauls where you don't want range anxiety creeping in Range anxiety.
Speaker 2:That's a real thing with EVs, huh.
Speaker 3:It's a real thing, especially if you're used to just pulling into any gas station.
Speaker 2:Makes sense. Okay, so that's practical, but there's got to be a Model 3 for the speed demons out there, right, oh?
Speaker 3:yeah, tesla wouldn't be Tesla without a performance option. That's where the performance model comes in Zero to 60 in a mind-blowing 3.1 seconds.
Speaker 2:Okay, now you're just showing off.
Speaker 3:Hey, I'm just saying it's impressive, electric or not?
Speaker 2:that's some serious speed. It's seriously tempting. I'll give you that. But let's bring it back down to earth for a sec. We're talking USED here. That changes the game, doesn't it?
Speaker 3:Big time. It's not just about picking your favorite color anymore.
Speaker 2:So, before we get lost in the autopilot daydreams and those fancy door handles, what are some reality check things to keep in mind with a used Model 3?
Speaker 3:Well, first off, depreciation. Teslas do hold their value, better than a lot of cars.
Speaker 2:That's what everyone says. Right, they're like the iPhones of cars.
Speaker 3:There's some truth to that, but it's not like they're into it. We're seeing more and more Teslas on the road, which means those use prices are going to fluctuate.
Speaker 2:So give us some numbers. What's a 2017 Model 3 looking like these days? Ballpark.
Speaker 3:Well, you're probably looking at somewhere between 27,000 to 33,000 pounds give or take. Condition is everything, as always.
Speaker 2:Okay, that's a decent chunk of change. What about something a little newer, like a 2019-2020?
Speaker 3:That's a decent chunk of change. What about something a little newer, like a 2019-2020? You're probably looking at 33,000 to 43,000 pounds for that range Again, huge variation depending on mileage condition. You know the drill.
Speaker 2:So it's not as simple as just searching used Model 3 and picking the cheapest one. Huh.
Speaker 3:Not at all. It's not like buying a used Corolla. Evaluating a used Tesla, well, it's a different beast.
Speaker 2:Okay, I'm intrigued. Different beast how? What makes it so different?
Speaker 3:Think about it With a regular car, you're checking the engine right and maybe giving the suspension a look. With a Tesla, you've got that big old battery pack, the electric motors, and don't forget about the software.
Speaker 2:Oh right, the software. It's easy to forget that a Tesla is basically a computer on wheels.
Speaker 3:And computers can have glitches, just like any car can have mechanical issues. And then there's insurance to think about.
Speaker 2:Insurance.
Speaker 3:Yeah.
Speaker 2:I've heard things.
Speaker 3:Let's just say those insurance companies are still wrapping their heads around electric performance A Model 3, especially those higher performance trims. You're looking at insurance groups 48 to 50. Easy.
Speaker 2:Okay, for those of us who don't speak insurance. What does that mean for our wallets?
Speaker 3:Basically higher premiums. They're looking at the cost of repairs, the tech onboard, that crazy acceleration All adds up.
Speaker 2:So factor that in before you fall in love with the speed.
Speaker 3:Exactly Got to look at the whole picture.
Speaker 2:So insurance another thing to factor in. But it's not all about the practical stuff, is it? There's that Tesla image, that cool factor. Does that even matter when we're talking used?
Speaker 3:Oh, it definitely matters, Tesla. They've built a brand, haven't they? And that brand has staying power.
Speaker 2:So it's like you're buying into a lifestyle, that early adopter vibe.
Speaker 3:Yeah, there's an element of that, and you know what that translates into real value. Used Teslas often go for more than comparable EVs from, say, other brands.
Speaker 2:Interesting. So it's like there's a premium on that Tesla badge.
Speaker 3:Kinda yeah. Which begs the question how much is that worth to you? Would you pay extra for it, or would you rather go with a used Audi BMW?
Speaker 2:something a little more well, traditionally luxurious. That's a good point, and that actually leads us perfectly into our next thing the competition, Because the Model 3 isn't the only electric game in town anymore.
Speaker 3:Oh, no way. The EV market is exploding, which is great for buyers More choices, better tech. It's a good time to be shopping around For sure.
Speaker 2:So to help with that shopping, let's bring in some contenders. We've got the Polestar 2, kind of the stylish cousin from Volvo.
Speaker 3:Sleek those ones.
Speaker 2:Then we've got BMW with the i4. You know, got to have that German engineering in the mix.
Speaker 3:Can't go wrong with a bit of that.
Speaker 2:Kia's here too, their EV6 has been turning heads. They're really stepping up their EV game I'll give them that, and, last but not least, the Audi Q4 e-tron for those who need a bit more space.
Speaker 3:PSUV of the bunch, practical.
Speaker 2:Exactly Okay. So quick fire round here. Let's focus on one thing each of these rivals does better than the Model 3. Just to give our listeners a clear comparison Gotcha One key advantage each, you got it. So, starting with Polestar 2, what's its edge?
Speaker 3:Comfort hands down. People rave about how smooth the ride is in a Polestar, more so than the Model 3, which can be a tad well firm. If a comfy ride is your jam, the Polestar 2 is worth a look.
Speaker 2:Good to know. Okay, BMW i4, what's its trump card?
Speaker 3:It's BMW, so that driving experience it's more connected, more engaging than the Model 3. You feel the road more, which some drivers love.
Speaker 2:Makes sense. So if you like a bit of feedback from the steering wheel, the i4 might be your pick.
Speaker 3:For sure, different strokes for different folks, right.
Speaker 2:Absolutely Okay. Kia EV6. What's its big win?
Speaker 3:Value, Plain and simple. The EV6 packs a ton of features. It's roomy and you'll probably find a used one for less than a comparable Model 3.
Speaker 2:So budget-minded buyers pay attention to the EV6. All right, last one Audi Q4 e tron. What sets it apart?
Speaker 3:Practicality. Really, it's that SUV thing. You know, more cargo space than a Model 3, plus that classic Audi interior if you need the extra room, or you just really dig that Audi vibe.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:The Q4 e-tron has its appeal.
Speaker 2:Makes sense. Different strokes, like you said. Okay, so we've got the competition all lined up, but now let's circle back to the Model 3 itself. Especially those used models, We've got to make sure our listener knows exactly what they're getting into.
Speaker 3:Due diligence is key.
Speaker 2:Couldn't agree more. So we talked about versions depreciation, the Tesla image, about versions depreciation, the Tesla image. Now the nitty gritty are there any year, specific issues, things to watch out for, depending on the model year of the used?
Speaker 3:Model 3? Oh yeah, definitely Teslas haven't been around that long but, like any car, they've had their share of, shall we say, learning curves.
Speaker 2:Okay, so let's break it down. 2017, 2018 models Any red flags there?
Speaker 3:So those early ones. There were some reports of build quality issues, panel gaps, paint imperfections, you know those kind of things. Even some of those fancy door handles, the ones that pop out. They were a bit glitchy on some early models.
Speaker 2:Ah, early adopter woes.
Speaker 3:Exactly, tesla was still figuring things out.
Speaker 2:So with those early models, a careful inspection is a must.
Speaker 3:Absolutely A good pre-purchase inspection from someone who really knows Tesla's is worth its weight in gold.
Speaker 2:Good advice. Okay, what about the 2019-2020 Model 3s? Things get better.
Speaker 3:They did. Yeah, build quality seems to have improved a lot. Those early hiccups mostly ironed out, but there were some reports of touchscreen issues.
Speaker 2:Ah, the heart of the Tesla experience. What kind of issues.
Speaker 3:Responsiveness. Sometimes the screen would freeze up or even go completely blank. Not ideal.
Speaker 2:Not ideal at all. What's the fix for that new screen?
Speaker 3:Thankfully, a lot of those were software issues. Tesla, they're always pushing out updates over the air, just like your phone.
Speaker 2:So keep those updates coming.
Speaker 3:For sure. Buying a used Tesla, it's almost like buying a used laptop. Those updates they're crucial.
Speaker 2:Speaking of tech, let's talk autopilot. That's a big one, right?
Speaker 3:Huge. But it can be a bit confusing, especially in the used market.
Speaker 2:Right, lay it on us Autopilot. What do we need to know when shopping used?
Speaker 3:Okay, so not all autopilot systems are created equal. Tesla's been constantly tweaking the hardware, andy, the software, over the years.
Speaker 2:So autopilot in a 2017 might be way different than a 2021.
Speaker 3:Night and day sometimes.
Speaker 2:Okay, so how do we keep track of all that?
Speaker 3:First thing, the hardware. Tesla has different versions of its hardware suite. That's the cameras, the sensors, all the brains behind autopilot. An older Model 3 might have older hardware, which means even with the latest software it might not be able to do all the new autopilot stuff.
Speaker 2:So it's like trying to play the latest video game on an old computer. The game might be updated, but your computer just can't handle it.
Speaker 3:Perfect analogy. So yeah, checking that hardware version is crucial.
Speaker 2:How do we do that? Is it like hidden in a menu somewhere?
Speaker 3:Usually in the car settings, or if you're buying from a dealer, they should know. If they don't, that's a red flag in itself.
Speaker 2:Good point. Okay, so hardware is important, but you mentioned software updates too. How do those factor into autopilot?
Speaker 3:Those are crucial for keeping the system current. Tesla is always refining the software, making it better at detecting objects, even adding new features. It's why those over-the-air updates are so important.
Speaker 2:It's kind of cool when you think about it. Your car is literally getting smarter over time.
Speaker 3:It's wild, isn't it? But here's the catch Not all hardware can run all-L software.
Speaker 2:Ah the catch. There's always a catch.
Speaker 3:Right. So yeah, it's a bit of a dance between those two. Do your research. Make sure the used Model 3 you're looking at can actually run the autopilot features you want.
Speaker 2:Makes sense, Okay, Autopilot dud check. Now on to the big one, the thing no one wants to think about, but we have to the battery.
Speaker 3:The heart.
Speaker 2:So battery health Break it down for us. What do we need to know?
Speaker 3:All right. So Tesla batteries are pretty darn good, but like all L batteries, they degrade over time.
Speaker 2:Just like our phones, they don't hold a charge as well after a while.
Speaker 3:Exactly and just like with your phone as the battery degrades, you get less range. Pretty simple, really.
Speaker 2:Makes sense. So how do we check a used Tesla's battery health? Asking for a friend, of course, of course, okay.
Speaker 3:First thing, ask the seller for a battery health report. The car can generate one. It shows how much capacity the battery has and now W compared to when it was brand new.
Speaker 2:So like a battery report card.
Speaker 3:Pretty much. You want to see a battery that's still in good shape.
Speaker 2:Some degradation is normal, but if it's lost, a huge E chunk of its capacity.
Speaker 3:that's a huge E red flag, duly noted. Yeah. Anything else to watch out for? Battery-wise, keep an eye on the car's stated range. Does it seem low for that model year? Inversion Could be a sign the battery's seen better days.
Speaker 2:So if a 2019 long range is only advertising like 200 miles of range?
Speaker 3:that's suspect, very suspect. Something's not adding up there.
Speaker 2:Okay, Good to know. What about warranties? Tesla covers their batteries right.
Speaker 3:They do Eight years on the battery and drive unit. But here's the thing. The coverage it can vary, Depends on the model year, the mileage. It gets complicated.
Speaker 2:So read the fine print or you know the warranty information.
Speaker 3:Always a good idea, and if you're not sure, contact Tesla directly. They can tell you exactly what's covered. Solid advice.
Speaker 2:Yeah, okay, battery Checked. Now what about the dreaded S word Servicing?
Speaker 3:Ah, yes, servicing.
Speaker 2:Everyone's favorite topic, exactly so myth busting time EVs.
Speaker 3:They don't need AHE maintenance. Right, that's what I've heard. That's the dream, isn't it? The reality is a bit more nuanced. Less maintenance than a petrol or diesel car absolutely, but maintenance-free Not quite.
Speaker 2:Okay, so spill the beans. What key disservicing are we talking about for a used Model 3?
Speaker 3:The good news no more oil changes, no oil. No filters to replace. That's one less thing to worry about.
Speaker 2:Music to my ears. Anything else, we can cross off the list.
Speaker 3:Since electric motors have way fewer moving parts than those big clunky engines, there's just inherently less that can go wrong.
Speaker 2:So simpler is better, basically.
Speaker 3:Pretty much, but there are still things that need attention Brakes, tires, fluids, the usual stuff Essentials right, Gotta stay safe out there. Exactly, and then you've got your Tesla-specific service items.
Speaker 2:Ooh, like what Tell me more.
Speaker 3:Software updates. Obviously We've talked about those, but also things like that touchscreen, those fancy door handles, even that phantom braking issue some owners have reported.
Speaker 2:Wait, becca, phantom braking, that doesn't sound good.
Speaker 3:Not great. No, it's where the car slams on the brakes for seemingly no reason.
Speaker 2:Yikes.
Speaker 3:Okay, what causes that and is there a fix? Seems to be related to the car's sensors how they read the road. Tesla's been working on software updates to address it, but yeah, not fun to experience.
Speaker 2:Another point for the software updates. Anything else on the servicing front.
Speaker 3:Tesla recommends servicing every two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Their warranty is decent but, like we said before, know what it covers, especially with a used car.
Speaker 2:Solid advice. Now on to something a bit more cheerful Money saved. E One of the perks of going electric.
Speaker 3:Road tax, you mean.
Speaker 2:Ding, ding ding. No road tax on a pure electric car like the Model 3 here in the UK. That's money back in your pocket compared to those petrol guzzlers.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. And don't forget about those ultra low emission zones. London, I'm looking at you. The Model 3 laughs in the face of those charges.
Speaker 2:Another win for Team EV. Okay, so we've covered a ton of ground today the allure of a used Model 3, the research involved, those year-specific quirks.
Speaker 3:We've talked insurance charging, autopilot, even those phantom brakes.
Speaker 2:And those lovely road tax savings. Our listener must be feeling like a used Tesla expert by now. Okay, so we've gone over all the details, all the ins and outs of snagging a used Model 3. But now for the big question, and I'm putting you on the spot here Is it actually a good buy in 2024? Used Model 3. Yay or nay?
Speaker 3:Oh, you're really going to make me pick. Huh, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Cars are personal, you know.
Speaker 2:Fair enough, fair enough. So what are the big things our listeners should be thinking about as they make this decision?
Speaker 3:It really boils down to this what are your need-to-haves versus the nice-to-haves? If you're on a super tight budget and just want to get into A&Y EV for the lowest price possible, well, a used Model 3 might not be it, Especially now there are more affordable EVs popping up on the used market all the time.
Speaker 2:We did touch on some of those rivals Right.
Speaker 3:But if it's that Tesla experience, you're after that tech, the instant acceleration, that feeling of I don't know being part of something. Well, a used Model 3 can still deliver that.
Speaker 2:It's a unique feeling, for sure.
Speaker 3:Totally. But even with all that got to be realistic. Remember those potential issues we talked about Battery health, those software updates, those quirks, depending on the year. Go in with your eyes open. Do your homework.
Speaker 2:Couldn't agree more. So for our listeners out there about to brave the used car world, any parting words of wisdom.
Speaker 3:Okay, so first up, knowledge is power. We've covered a lot, but don't stop here. Research those specific model years you're into. Check out forums, read reviews from actual owners, you know.
Speaker 2:Because no one knows these cars better than the people who live with them every day.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and second that pre-purchase inspection non-negotiable. Find a mechanic who really knows EVs, especially Teslas, and have them give it a thorough look over. It's an investment that could save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Speaker 2:For sure. Okay, that's research and inspection covered. What else?
Speaker 3:This is going to sound cheesy, but have fun. Buying a car, even a used one, should be exciting. Don't get so bogged down in the details that you forget to enjoy the process.
Speaker 2:Amen to that. It's about finding the right car for you, for your life, the one that, yeah, maybe even puts a little smile on your face when you get behind the wheel.
Speaker 3:Exactly. It's got to be more than just a practical decision.
Speaker 2:Couldn't have said it better myself. So to everyone out there ready to take the plunge into the world of used EVs, we're here cheering you on. Do your research, trust your gut and, most importantly, enjoy the ride. Until next time, drive safe, drive smart, and we'll see you on the next deep dive.
