The Good
The 2017 Tesla Model 3 offers exhilarating performance with instant torque, appealing to emotional buyers. Practically, it boasts high efficiency, reducing fuel costs, and a minimalist, comfortable interior. Its sleek design is also a major draw. While reliability can be debated, the long-term value proposition of lower running costs is attractive.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2017 Tesla Model 3 include early production quality issues like panel gaps and paint imperfections. The minimalist interior design isn't for everyone. Some owners have reported issues with the touchscreen display and charging infrastructure reliability can vary. Suspension noise and premature tire wear have also been noted.
2017 Tesla Model 3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: All-electric, various battery sizes (kWh) determining range. Initially offered with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and later dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) options.
- Horsepower: Varies significantly by trim and battery configuration. Ranged from approximately 238 hp in early standard range models to over 450 hp in Performance versions.
- Fuel Economy: Rated in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). The 2017 Model 3 achieves excellent MPGe ratings, significantly exceeding gasoline-powered vehicles. Typical MPGe ranged from 126 city/133 highway for RWD models and slightly lower for AWD models.
- 0-60 Times: Varies by trim. The Performance model could achieve 0-60 mph in around 3.2 seconds, while the Long Range model typically did it in around 4.5 seconds, and the Standard Range models in around 5.5-6 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not officially rated for towing in 2017. Tesla did not recommend towing with the Model 3 in its early years.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Standard Range: Included basic autopilot features, premium interior (partial), standard audio system, navigation, and access to Tesla's Supercharger network (fees apply).
- Long Range: Increased battery capacity for extended range, premium interior, upgraded audio system, and faster charging capabilities.
- Performance: Included all features of the Long Range model plus performance-oriented upgrades such as a lowered suspension, performance brakes, a carbon fiber spoiler, and track mode software. Also included were unique badging and aluminum alloy wheels.
2017 Tesla Model 3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Tesla |
| Model | Model 3 |
| Trim | - |
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Manufacturing Details
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Engine & Performance
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Pricing
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Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 Tesla Model 3 Have?
Recalls included issues related to the front suspension, seat belt anchors, and potential problems with the touchscreen display affecting rearview camera functionality. Long-term reliability concerns centered around battery degradation, though many owners have reported minimal degradation over significant mileage. Drive unit failures were reported, though less common than initial build quality concerns. Water leaks into the taillights were also a known issue. Specifically for 2017 models, the build quality control was less consistent compared to later years. Issues with window regulators and door handles were also more prevalent in early production runs. Regular software updates addressed some, but not all, of these initial quality concerns.
How long will the 2017 Tesla Model 3 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and side collision avoidance. The Model 3 received excellent crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning a 5-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also awarded the Model 3 a Top Safety Pick+ rating, recognizing its strong performance in crash tests and availability of advanced safety features. The large touchscreen serves as the central hub, integrating all controls and information in a single display. Over-the-air software updates continuously improved and added new features to the car's technology suite.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2017 Tesla Model 3 Prices and Market Value
2017 Tesla Model 3 Cost of Ownership
2017 Tesla Model 3 Fuel Efficiency
2017 Tesla Model 3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2017 Tesla Model 3 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Tesla Model 3 Compare to Other Vehicle?
Similar alternatives in terms of electric vehicles might include later model years of the Chevrolet Bolt (for budget-conscious buyers) or the Hyundai Kona Electric, offering comparable range and features at a similar price point. For buyers prioritizing reliability and luxury, a used BMW 330e (plug-in hybrid) could be a better choice, though it lacks the full electric range. Ultimately, the Model 3's appeal lay in its blend of performance, technology, and access to Tesla's charging infrastructure, a combination unmatched by its competitors at the time.
Ranks #1558 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1558 | 2017 Tesla Model 3 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Tesla Model 3 a Good Vehicle?
barbadoskelly on October 22, 2018
very poorly builtits fast.quiet and eficent.this is the most cheaply built 72k car in the world.i like it because 0 emmisions.everything from the fake leather seats to the cheap plastic wood grain dash is cheap.none of the panels have consistent gaps or sit flush.other than the eletric motor the car is trash..so thats the trade off .which is fine with me cuz all that will really mean anything in 100 yrs is the 0 emissions.
EV2Mars on July 30, 2018
Most exciting car I've ever drivenThis car really is the future. The outside is beautiful, with a front grill that looks playful and ready to chew up the pavement. Once you get past the minimalist interior and the giant 15" touchscreen that holds all your controls, you realize you never needed all those buttons that clutter the dash of most modern cars. And the driving! This car will ruin you for any other mid-priced luxury car. The Model 3's Permanent Magnet Electric Motor charges up on-ramps, the tight suspension handles cloverleafs like a dream, and the sporty handling allows you to hug curves on windy mountain roads like a dream. It's really does make driving FUN! But... when reality kicks in and you have to sit in traffic on your daily commute, all you have to do is flip on Enhanced AutoPilot, and the car takes control. Although full self driving has a way to go with regulators, just the traffic adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping (along with all the safety features), makes it so easy to sit back and relax while you supervise the driving. It reduces road rage and the frustration of stop-and-go traffic so you can arrive at your destination with much more zen. Oh, and I can't leave out the sound system. The immersive sound is AMAZING! I've never heard a stock system sound so good. All in all, this is the best car I've ever driven, and I'll never go back to a gas car again!
OldTeslaFanboy on July 22, 2018
Old Tesla fanboy realizes what Tesla really is..Let me first say I used to be a fan of Tesla and Elon, now on my 3rd Tesla, I expected a great car. My model 3 spent over a month in the service department during the 4 months I owned it. Service was just part of the issue, the model 3 wouldn't start twice, leaving me stranded. They replaced the battery and it still had issues. Have a problem that needs to go above your service rep? Good luck!! They could care less about any complaints you have. The manager, even the regional manager. Worst customer experience I have ever had. Plus the car is not great looking! Put a Toyota or Nissan badge on it and tell me you would still buy it for $56k. THE AUTOPILOT IS A SCARY JOKE, would constantly steer me directly into vehicles. When I questioned Tesla on this, they said well it's a prototype and I should restrict my use to highway use only. WHAT A JOKE! Once real manufacturers start producing 100% electrics in full force, Tesla will be a long forgotten joke, I know they are already that way for me! You are fools thinking Elon actually cares about anything but himself, his brand, and staying revolent in the news. He donates money to republicans you fools! Piece out Elon Trump
cosmic.composer on April 5, 2018
Lovely vehicle to remove petrol costs.Lovely electric vehicle, easy to manage and drive. Simply tech to learn and become accustomed to, without spending any more finances on petrol ever again!
bobby on March 25, 2018
Tesla cars exceeds expectations all the time.Superb electric car with awesome range. Technology at its best. Got 320 miles range with average 55 mph speed. Autopilot is extremely good and very reliable
Tesla fan on March 10, 2018
Most comfortable car I ever hadIt is really a treat. Compact but comfortable, longer battery range than Models Sand X. I can not wait for enhanced auto drive mode to be available in this car.
mikem on February 27, 2018
Model 3 is unlike any car you have driven!The Tesla Model 3 bucks the trends of the common auto manufacturer. The car can be upgraded with a simple software upload and you have a brand new car each time. The car is very sleek inside and out and very nimble. The steering is very responsive and the car doesn't have typical body roll because of the very low center of gravity by having the batteries along the bottom of the car. I would recommend everyone get into one of these cars to feel the difference, and then of course buy one for your self. Once you get bored with the ground breaking technology and quick acceleration, you should upgrade to the flagship model S and really blow the doors off the competition.
juliem on February 26, 2018
It's a 2018 but cars.com only allows 2017The car is quiet, very quick and surprisingly comfortable even with a sporty (firm) suspension. Trying to convince my other 1/2 that he should have one too! Too new to know everything about reliability but Tesla has always been focused on customer support and treats us great regarding our other car; expect the same.
jdc on January 5, 2018
cool carnext gen vehicle. no gas needed. no noise while driving. you won't even know it is running. definitely recommend it
The Big Ticket on January 4, 2018
$$$$$$Of course the benefits of this one will be you don?t have to wait for a year or two to receive the vehicle. They are charging much higher than purchase price, but it just may be worth it to have sooner rather than later. I personally enjoy the simple interior. The long range battery will certainly come in handy. Depending on how much you drive you could save a ton of money over a 5 year period of time. If you were to purchase for this price, however, your depreciation should be fairly substantial. Great vehicles though and no car in its class can touch the range.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.