InsideEVs has reported on a real-world battery health test of a four-year-old, Shanghai-built 2022 Tesla Model 3 rear-wheel drive with an LFP battery pack. The car, purchased second-hand with nearly 125,000 km (~77,700 miles) and an unknown charging history, underwent a full battery test to assess its remaining capacity. The results offer insight into how Tesla’s LFP batteries hold up over time and distance.
Testing the Battery Health
The battery health test was conducted after the Model 3 had accumulated 125,088 km (~77,726 miles). Using the car’s built-in diagnostic, the test required a full discharge and recharge cycle. The vehicle drew 62.4 kWh from the charger, and after accounting for the standard 10% charging losses, the usable energy delivered to the battery was approximately 56.2 kWh.
This figure represents 92.9% of the battery’s estimated original gross capacity of 60.5 kWh. Tesla does not officially publish the exact battery capacity for its vehicles, so this estimate is based on industry benchmarks.
How Does This Compare to Other Used Model 3s?
The 92% battery health result aligns closely with findings from Swedish used EV retailer Carla, which tested several LFP-equipped Model 3s and found an average of 93.3% original capacity remaining after 100,000 km (~62,000 miles). While the tested Tesla had a higher mileage, its battery performance remained consistent with these broader results.
It is important to note that the previous charging habits of this particular Model 3 are unknown, making the result especially relevant for buyers considering used EVs with incomplete service histories.
Competitor Comparison
Compared to earlier-generation EVs like the Nissan Leaf, which have been known for more rapid battery degradation, Tesla’s LFP-equipped Model 3 demonstrates a slower rate of capacity loss. This positions the Model 3 as a more reliable long-term option among used EVs, especially for buyers concerned about battery longevity.
Historical Context
Global electric vehicle sales reached 11 million units in 2022, reflecting a significant increase from previous years. As the used EV market expands, understanding battery health trends becomes increasingly important for both buyers and sellers.
Why this matters
Battery health is a critical factor in the value and usability of used electric vehicles. The test result of 92% remaining capacity after four years and over 125,000 km (~77,700 miles) suggests that Tesla’s LFP batteries can retain most of their original performance even with unknown charging histories.
For buyers, this provides reassurance that a used Model 3 with similar mileage may still offer strong range and reliability, reducing concerns about costly battery replacements.
What this means for buyers
Prospective used EV buyers should prioritise battery health checks, especially for vehicles with high mileage or incomplete service records. Tesla’s built-in battery health diagnostic remains the most reliable indicator for these vehicles.
When comparing used EVs, consider models with LFP batteries for their demonstrated durability. Always request a battery health report before finalising a purchase.
Key Specs
- Tested Vehicle: 2022 Tesla Model 3 RWD (Shanghai-built, LFP battery)
- Mileage at Test: 125,088 km (~77,726 miles)
- Battery Health: 92% (official Tesla reading)
- Energy Drawn During Test: 62.4 kWh
- Usable Energy After Charging Losses: 56.2 kWh
- Estimated Original Gross Capacity: 60.5 kWh
- Age at Test: 4 years
Source
Images sourced from: insideevs.com, arenaev.com, pcauto.com
