Owning a Tesla Model 3 for the past few years has been quite the journey. When I first bought the car, I was excited about the idea of going electric and reducing my carbon footprint. Now, after putting plenty of miles on it, I can give a more personal take on what it’s like to live with a Model 3 day in and day out.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
I’ll admit, I was initially drawn to the Tesla Model 3 because of how it looks. The sleek, minimalist design is something I still love, even after years of seeing it every day. The interior, in particular, stands out to me. There’s no clutter—just that massive touchscreen in the center that controls nearly everything. It felt a bit weird at first, having no buttons or physical controls, but now I’m used to it, and I appreciate how clean it looks.
That being said, the build quality isn’t perfect. Early on, I did notice a few panel gaps and a small paint imperfection, but nothing major. Tesla has improved these issues over time, and it’s been relatively smooth sailing. The car feels solid, and despite driving it for a few years now, it still looks as sharp as the day I bought it.
Driving Experience
I can confidently say that the Tesla Model 3 is still one of the most fun cars I’ve ever driven. That instant torque is something that never gets old. Whether I’m merging onto the highway or just zipping around town, the acceleration is addictive. You press the pedal, and the car just goes. It’s silent and smooth, but it packs a punch when you want it to.
I went for the Long Range version, so I’ve never had any issues with range anxiety. It’s nice knowing that I can drive over 300 miles on a full charge without worrying about finding a charging station. The handling is excellent, too. It feels planted on the road, and the steering is responsive. Even after all this time, I still get a little thrill every time I take it for a spin.
Charging and Range
One of the things I was most worried about before getting the Model 3 was charging. I wasn’t sure how convenient it would be, but I can honestly say it hasn’t been an issue at all. I have a home charger, and I usually just plug the car in overnight. It’s like charging a phone—you wake up, and it’s ready to go.
On road trips, I’ve had to rely on Tesla’s Supercharger network a few times, and it’s been surprisingly convenient. In about 20-30 minutes, I get enough juice to continue my trip, which is the perfect amount of time for a quick break.
As for the range, I opted for the Long Range version, which gets me around 350 miles on a full charge. In reality, depending on how I drive and the weather conditions, it’s a bit less, but it’s never been a problem for me. I’ve noticed a small drop in range over the years, but nothing significant.
Constantly Evolving
The tech in the Tesla Model 3 is a huge selling point, and I’ve been impressed with how Tesla continues to push updates to the car. It’s like owning a smartphone that keeps getting new features. From Autopilot improvements to entertainment options, there’s always something new to play with. I love that I don’t have to take the car in for updates—everything happens wirelessly.
Autopilot is probably the most talked-about feature, and while I don’t use it every day, it’s been a lifesaver on long highway trips. It handles the stop-and-go traffic surprisingly well and reduces the stress of driving, though I always keep my hands on the wheel and stay alert, just in case.
However, I will say that having almost everything controlled through the touchscreen took some getting used to. At first, it felt odd to adjust the air conditioning or change the music with a screen instead of physical buttons, but now it’s second nature.
Maintenance and Reliability
One of the best things about owning an electric car is how little maintenance it needs. With the Model 3, I haven’t had to deal with oil changes or engine issues. The regenerative braking even saves wear and tear on the brakes, which is a nice bonus. I’ve had a couple of minor things fixed under warranty, but nothing that has made me regret the purchase.
Tesla’s service network, however, can be a bit frustrating. Depending on where you live, getting a service appointment can take a while. Fortunately, Tesla’s mobile service option has been convenient for minor issues. I’ve had a technician come to my house to fix small things, which is a great feature.
The big question most people ask about is the battery. I’ve had my Model 3 for a few years now, and while I’ve noticed a tiny bit of battery degradation, it’s not been a deal-breaker. Tesla’s warranty on the battery has given me peace of mind, and I feel confident it will last a long time.
Cost of Ownership
Let’s be honest, Teslas aren’t cheap. The upfront cost of the Model 3 is higher than many gas-powered cars, but I’ve found that the long-term savings balance things out. Charging the car is way cheaper than filling up a gas tank, especially since I mostly charge at home. Plus, I don’t have to worry about the cost of regular maintenance like oil changes or exhaust repairs.
Insurance was a little pricier than I expected, mainly because of Tesla’s high-tech features and the cost of parts. But overall, I’d say the cost of ownership has been reasonable, especially considering the savings on fuel and maintenance.
Conclusion
After a few years of owning the Tesla Model 3, I’m still happy with my decision. The car is fun to drive, packed with useful technology, and requires very little maintenance. The range and charging network have been more than enough for my needs, and I appreciate the fact that the car keeps getting better with software updates.
Of course, there are a few downsides. Tesla’s service network could be more efficient, and the initial cost is a bit steep, but for me, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges. If you’re considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, the Tesla Model 3 is still one of the best options out there. It’s not just a car—it’s an experience, and one that I’m glad to be a part of.