Vehicle summary
ULEZ status is estimated based on fuel type and registration year. It may not reflect the actual emission standard of this vehicle. Check with TfL for a definitive answer.
At a glance
This 2003 Volkswagen Passat Petrol 1781cc has had 16 MOT tests on record, passing 11 and failing 5 (69% pass rate). It has 178,149 miles on the clock, averaging 13,187 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. The 1.8T engine is known for 1. ignition coil pack failures and 2. timing belt & tensioner wear. Common Volkswagen Passat issues include suspension upper control arm links (front multi-link arms) and sunroof drain blockages causing interior water leaks.
MOT & Mileage History for AE53 HLA
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failures recorded
Average miles/year
Gap in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Above average| Latest reading | 178,149 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 2 |
| Average per year | 13,187 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check AE53 HLA
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
- Stolen vehicle check Experian
- Ownership changes Experian
- Mileage discrepancy alerts
- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 16 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Volkswagen Passat often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
Reported issues for this Volkswagen Passat
These are the most commonly reported problems on Volkswagen Passat models (1997–2005), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Suspension upper control arm links (front multi-link arms)
Bushings and ball joints wear out prematurely, leading to play or complete failure. · Typical repair: £200-£400 per side (parts £80-£150, labour 2-3 hours at £100/hr indie rate).
Sunroof drain blockages causing interior water leaks
Drains clog with debris, water backs up and floods footwells, soaking modules (convenience module driver side, TCM passenger side). · Typical repair: £100-£300 to clear drains/replace modules; £800+ if full harness needed (estimated).
Rear window regulators
Plastic guides/gears strip or snap, windows drop into door. · Typical repair: £150-£250 per door (aftermarket regulator £50-£80, 1-2 hours labour).
Door latches/locks failing
Mechanisms seize or microswitches fail, causing central locking glitches. · Typical repair: £100-£200 per door (rebuild kit £30-£50, 1 hour labour).
1. Ignition Coil Pack Failures
2. Timing Belt & Tensioner Wear
Explore more about the Volkswagen Passat
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | AE53 HLA |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1781cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | AE — Peterborough, Anglia |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More AE53 H plates
Browse all AE53 H registrations from Peterborough.
About AE53 HLA
What car is AE53 HLA?
AE53 HLA is an blue Volkswagen Passat, petrol (1781cc). First registered in Peterborough in 2003.
What is the mileage of AE53 HLA?
The last recorded mileage for AE53 HLA was 178,149 miles, recorded on 22 Sep 2016 during its most recent MOT test.
Has AE53 HLA passed its MOT?
AE53 HLA has had 16 MOT tests with a 69% pass rate (11 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 22 Sep 2016.
Is AE53 HLA ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, AE53 HLA is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a petrol vehicle registered in 2003, it typically does not meet the Euro 4 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is AE53 HLA?
AE53 HLA is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.