Image Credit: OGS & Mechanics/YouTube.A YouTuber named OGS & Mechanics documented the restoration of a high-mileage Tesla Model S after purchasing a vehicle he described as "probably the cheapest Tesla out there [in the United Kingdom]," only to discover it had multiple faults.After selling his BMW i3, he bought a Tesla Model S 70 for around $6,000 with about 184,000 miles on the odometer, which displayed numerous warning messages, including an "Unable to charge" alert and multiple fault codes.During the initial inspection, the presenter also said the battery appeared to have been removed previously, noting signs of prior work.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith conventional diagnostic equipment unable to establish the cause of the faults, attention turned to the vehicle's onboard systems as the investigation continued.Rear Motor Investigation Uncovers Source of FailureImage Credit: OGS & Mechanics/YouTube.The first stage of the inspection focused on a brake light issue, with the team replacing the brake light switch before determining it was not responsible for the vehicle's problems.After analyzing the available fault codes, the investigation pointed towards a possible isolation fault, leading to the removal of Tesla's rear drive unit for a closer inspection.Once the motor and inverter were dismantled, coolant ingress was discovered inside the inverter, with coolant having flooded part of the unit. George, the presenter, explained that coolant had leaked past a failed seal inside the motor, causing extensive damage and rendering the rear motor inoperable.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe transmission itself appeared free from coolant contamination, but the condition of the motor meant a replacement would be required.Replacement Motor Fitted Alongside Preventive UpgradeUnable to source the individual internal components needed to repair the original motor, George and his team opted to install a replacement rear motor instead.Before fitting it, the replacement unit was stripped and inspected to ensure it was free from the same issue. A "coolant delete" modification was also carried out, preventing coolant from flowing through the motor's rotor. He said reconditioned Tesla motors are supplied with what he called a "coolant delete" to help prevent future coolant ingress.After the replacement motor was installed, the vehicle still required software updates and immobilizer programming before it could be driven again. Following several updates and programming procedures, the Tesla successfully engaged drive and completed its first test drive since the repair.Further Repairs Needed Before Project Was CompleteAlthough the repaired Tesla drove well, a further inspection uncovered a worn front suspension ball joint that he described as "quite dangerous." The faulty component was replaced before additional road testing continued.AdvertisementAdvertisementFollowing several hundred miles of driving, George said the vehicle was performing well and estimated it could still achieve around 200 miles of range despite its high mileage. However, he noted that the battery's long-term condition remained unknown.He estimated the project total at around $14,000 (£10,500), based on the purchase price, replacement motor and estimated labour costs before suspension repairs.While describing the Tesla as enjoyable to drive following the repairs, he questioned whether purchasing the non-running vehicle had ultimately been worthwhile and invited viewers to share whether they believed the project represented good value.
