Home

Tesla

Model 3

Features

Tesla Model 3 Detailed Paint Review: China-Made Models Vs US

Is Model 3 paint quality better on models built in China?

tesla model 3 paint review

Steven Loveday Steven Loveday

By: Steven Loveday

Apr 8, 2021 at 9:49am ET

Add InsideEVs as a preferred source in Google

Share

Comment

UK-based YouTube channel RSymons RSEV covers and compares a wide variety of electric cars, but the focus seems to be on the fine details other outlets may not dive into. The publication is in a unique situation when it comes to the Tesla Model 3 since the UK gets cars from both the Tesla Fremont factory and Shanghai Gigafactory.

In the past, RSymons has taken an up-close look at China-made Model 3 sedans versus those produced at Tesla's main factory in California. However, this recent video pays particular attention to the paint quality of Teslas from each factory. 

Tesla has been under constant scrutiny for years when it comes to quality control and fit and finish. More specifically, people often point out panel gaps and issues with the paint. While Tesla has made updates to the "old" paint shop at Fremont, it has been blamed by insiders and outsiders for the paint issues found on some Tesla cars.

Tesla's second factory is cranking out cars in China, and the automaker has two more factories underway, one near Berlin, Germany, and the other in Austin, Texas. Tesla has pointed out that these factories have (or will have) a much better situation when it comes to paint. In fact, China-made Model 3s have been praised for their high level of quality in the country. However, keep in mind, quality, paint, and fit and finish expectations in China are much different than they are in the US.

What do you think?

View

Comments

RSymons measures paint thickness between different colors of Model 3 sedans made in China and the US. He also brings a professional detailer in to provide his opinion of the paint situation. Finally, they look at a few different colored Model S sedans to see if the paint is better on a more expensive car.

Read These Tesla Articles For More Information:

Tesla Model 3 Paint & Interior Condition After 2 Years: Does It Hold Up?

Will PPF Solve Tesla Model Y Paint Issues? Removing It Might Pull Paint Off

You might be quite surprised by the findings here. Check out the video for all the details. Then, leave us a comment.

Source: RSymons RSEV (YouTube)

We want your opinion!

What would you like to see on Insideevs.com?

Take our 3 minute survey.

- The InsideEVs team

Share this Story

GO TO COMMENTS

(

)

Got a tip for us? Email: tips@insideevs.com

View all comments ( )

Trending

Kia EV3 Lease Deals Are Here, And It’s Cheaper Than The Chevy Bolt And Nissan Leaf

Kia EV3 Lease Deals Are Here, And It’s Cheaper Than The Chevy Bolt And Nissan Leaf

I Let Android Auto Plan My EV Roadtrip. Here’s How It Worked

I Let Android Auto Plan My EV Roadtrip. Here’s How It Worked

This Chevy Bolt Has 470,000 Miles. Here’s How Much A New Battery Was

This Chevy Bolt Has 470,000 Miles. Here’s How Much A New Battery Was

Here's What It's Like To Take Delivery Of A Rivian R2

Here's What It's Like To Take Delivery Of A Rivian R2

latest articles

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU



The Boring Company Uses Tesla Model 3 Sleds To Shuttle Shipping Containers Through Its Tunnels



Can The BMW iX3 Take Down The Tesla Model Y L And Rivian R2?



The Longest-Range EVs You Can Buy In 2026



Waymo Plans To Have 20,000 Cars By The End Of 2027



The Tesla Model 3 And Model Y Can Now Power Your Home In A Blackout



How Much Range Do EVs Lose When Parked? (And How to Stop It)



The Tesla Model 3 Gets A Range Bump And A New Screen In The U.S.