In this episode, a 2018 Tesla Model 3 with nearly 180,000 miles is put under the spotlight, showcasing its enduring reliability and performance for a daily 160-mile commute in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The owner, a dedicated commuter, shares insights on why this EV remains a standout choice for tech enthusiasts, highlighting its handling, cost efficiency, and minimal maintenance needs.

Key Takeaways

High Mileage, High Reliability: The Model 3, with 179,316 miles, runs smoothly with minimal issues, needing only a control arm replacement and a self-repaired side mirror.
Impressive Handling: The car’s steering and road grip remain solid, offering a fun, responsive drive comparable to manual cars.
Winter Range Impact: Cold weather reduces range by about 25%, from 240 miles to ~180 miles, but strategic charging prevents issues.
Cost Savings: The Tesla app highlights significant gas savings, making it economical for long commutes.
EV-Specific Tires: Specialized tires reduce road noise by ~30%, improving comfort.

The episode dives into the owner’s experience with a 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, used for a demanding 80-mile-each-way commute. Despite its high mileage, the car’s handling remains exceptional, with no rattles or loss of performance. The owner praises its reliability, having only replaced a front control arm and a $100 side mirror, which they fixed themselves using YouTube guides. Winter range loss is manageable, with nightly charging at 80-85% ensuring no range anxiety, thanks to nearby Tesla chargers. The car’s acceleration and handling make it a joy to drive, though the owner prefers manual control over Full Self-Driving (FSD) due to their love for driving. Minor drawbacks include a plain interior, lack of a spare tire, and temperature challenges from the glass roof, which a new shield helps mitigate. The owner recommends Tesla over other EVs, citing its superior reliability and performance, and plans to keep the car until it fails, with interest in upgrading to a Model S for its enhanced design.

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