Tesla battery life explained
Curious about Tesla battery life and how far you’ll be able to drive? These are a some of the common questions for drivers who’re considering a Tesla. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about Tesla batteries. We’ll answer key questions like how long Tesla batteries last and cover everything from performance, checking for wear, and understanding replacement options.
How long do Tesla batteries last?
A Tesla’s battery life is designed for longevity. Most models will retain a high percentage of their original capacity even after years of use.
On average, Tesla say their batteries will last between 300,000-500,000 miles or around 20 years, whichever comes first. It is important to know that battery degradation occurs over time, meaning a slight decrease in capacity and range as the years go by.
Real-world data suggests that Tesla batteries can lose around 5-10% of their capacity within the first 100,000 miles, but the rate of degradation does slow down afterwards. As with any car, it highlights the importance of keeping your electric car maintained to sustain long battery life. Factors affecting battery lifespan include:
- Charging habits
- Temperature or climate conditions
- Driving style
- Driving load
- Miles covered
Tesla battery warranty information
Tesla offers comprehensive warranties on their cars. This cover varies depending on the model:
Model | Battery Life (whichever comes first) |
Tesla Model 3 (standard range) | 8 years OR 100,000 miles |
Tesla Model 3 Long Range & Performance | 8 years OR 120,000 miles. |
8 years OR 150,000 miles. | |
8 years OR 120,000 miles. |
Note: All models’ battery life comes with a minimum 70% battery retention guarantee. The Model S and Model X are no longer available to order in the UK.
These warranties protect against significant loss of battery performance, ensuring that if you’re driving a Tesla, you’ll experience peace of mind whilst under warranty.
How to check Tesla battery degradation
If you’re worried about battery degradation for your Tesla, it’s worth keeping in mind that Tesla’s state-of-the-art battery technology and navigation system can help optimise routes. As well as this, checking battery health is crucial for ensuring maximum performance. Here are some ways in which you can monitor Tesla battery degradation:
- Use the Tesla app: Tesla’s mobile app gives you range estimates and efficiency stats, helping you track any changes in your battery capacity.
- Monitor range after full charge: Comparing the estimated range of a full charge with the original factory range can be helpful to give you an idea of the battery life’s condition.
- Don’t let the battery level drop too low: Avoid keeping the battery level below 20% for a long period of time.
- Check energy consumption in the car’s system: Your Tesla’s onboard computer logs its energy efficiency, giving you insights into how the battery performs over time.
- Third-party diagnostic tools: Other services like Scan My Tesla or TeslaFi offer detailed battery health reports to help you asses how long will a Tesla battery last for your model.
If you do notice a drop in your Tesla’s battery health, don’t worry as Tesla service centres can run further diagnostics and help find a solution.
How much does it cost to replace a Tesla battery?
While Tesla batteries are built to last for many years, some drivers may eventually need a replacement. The cost of replacing your Tesla battery can depend on the model and battery pack size. For example:
Model | Estimated replacement cost |
Tesla Model 3 | £10,000 – £15,000. |
Tesla Model Y | £10,000 – £15,000. |
Tesla Model X | £15,000 – £20,000 |
Tesla Model S | £15,000 – £20,000 |
Please note that the prices above do include parts and labour but may vary based on service provider and location. However, Tesla’s warranty coverage helps reduce costs for eligible repairs.
Find Out More About Teslas with Synergy
Thinking of leasing a Tesla? Leasing is great way to avoid the upfront costs of ownership as well as the financial implications of battery degradation further down the line. With Synergy, you can explore flexible Tesla leasing options tailored to your needs.
Check out our related guides to explore the benefits of electric cars and learn tips on how to choose your electric car to find the perfect model for you.
Alternatively, if you’re ready to secure your Tesla leasing deal, contact us today to discuss your options.
