Owner Review: 2017 Tesla Model S 100kWh (100,000+ Miles)

Owner Profile

• Owner: Graham

• Make & Model: 2017 Tesla Model S 100kWh

• Trim: Standard

  

• Length of Ownership: 3-4 years

• Current Mileage: 100,000+ miles

• Annual Mileage: 5,000–10,000 miles

• EV Experience: Third electric vehicle

The Buying Decision

For my third electric vehicle, I opted for the 2017 Tesla Model S 100kWh, primarily because it is incredibly comfortable and simple to drive. The cabin technology was a major draw, specifically the huge central touchscreen paired with a secondary digital instrument cluster directly in front of the steering wheel. It also features an excellent premium sound system that enhances every journey. Ultimately, knowing the car benefits from free lifetime map and software updates meant the technology would remain capable and fresh for years to come.

Real-World Range & Battery Performance

Even after crossing the 100,000-mile threshold, the 100kWh battery continues to perform solidly without severe degradation. On a day-to-day basis, I achieve a reliable average range of about 220 miles when charging the battery to 80%. When I need maximum distance for a longer trip and take it up to a full 100% charge, it delivers approximately 280 miles of range. This steady performance proves the long-term viability of the battery pack and keeps range anxiety completely at bay.

Charging Routine & Running Costs

By charging predominantly at home, I’ve found the Model S to be amazingly cheap to run compared to petrol or diesel equivalents. I use a Rolec Wallpod at home; while its smart connection stopped working after a few months, it functions perfectly as a simple basic charger because I can set the Tesla itself to schedule charging during cheap off-peak periods.

I currently use the Octopus Intelligent Octopus Go tariff, securing a highly economical off-peak rate of 6.57p per kWh. However, with the peak rate rising to 36.294p per kWh, I consistently shop around to see if a better deal is available to keep my running costs low (prices accurate as of October 2026).

When public charging is required, the Tesla Supercharger network is flawless—you just plug in and go without messing around with debit cards or memberships, and the rates are reasonable. Additionally, I secured the best insurance deal this year through Allianz.

The Drive: Pros & Cons

The car offers great performance and is wonderfully easy to drive, which I consider to be its best-kept secret alongside its low running costs. I absolutely love the free lifetime software updates, the extreme comfort, and how the large screen and exceptional sound system elevate the daily driving experience. However, it is not without its flaws, the most notable being a terrible steering lock. The large turning circle makes manoeuvring in tight spaces and smaller car parks quite a challenge, requiring extra care and often a three-point turn.

Reliability & Maintenance

Over the three to four years I’ve owned the car, it has proven to be highly dependable with no major mechanical faults. My maintenance trips have been strictly limited to standard wear-and-tear items rather than unexpected breakdowns. Specifically, this has only required a replacement low-voltage 12V battery, a new HEPA cabin filter, and replacement brake discs and pads. This level of reliability has significantly contributed to keeping the overall total cost of ownership low.

What’s Next?

If I were to trade in my keys tomorrow, I would look seriously at a BMW i4 or a Genesis GV70. Because Tesla now only offers the smaller Model 3 or Model Y rather than a refreshed Model S in the UK market, I would likely need to look toward these other premium brands for my next vehicle. Both alternatives offer the premium build quality and space I have grown accustomed to.