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 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 2926cc has had 13 MOT tests on record, passing 11 and failing 2 (85% pass rate). It has 211,464 miles on the clock, averaging 17,064 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. The 3.0d engine is known for 1. glow plugs & relay failure and 2. variable geometry turbo (vgt) actuator failure (m57tu2 only). Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for AO53 LHZ
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failures recorded
Average miles/year
Gaps in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Above average| Latest reading | 211,464 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 39,041 |
| Average per year | 17,064 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check AO53 LHZ
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Full MOT Test History 13 tests on record
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Reported issues for this Bmw 3 Series
These are the most commonly reported problems on Bmw 3 Series models (1998–2006), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Rear Subframe Mount Cracking (RACP Failure)
Fatigue cracks develop at the mounting points due to corrosion and stress; BMW's foam injection "fix" often fails, leading to subframe tearing. Affects **ALL body styles** (saloon, estate, coupe, convertible). · Typical repair: £800-£2,000 (reinforcement plates + welding at indie BMW specialist; foam fix £300 but inadequate).
Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
Rubber cracks/splits, causing excessive movement. Affects **ALL body styles**. · Typical repair: £200-£400 (bush press + alignment at indie).
Window Regulators
Cables fray or pulleys break, jamming mechanism. Affects **ALL body styles** (worse on coupes/convertibles with frameless windows). · Typical repair: £150-£300 per door (regulator + motor at indie).
Cooling System Leaks (Non-Engine Specific)
Plastic cracks from age/heat cycles; excludes water pump (engine-related). Affects **ALL body styles**. · Typical repair: £150-£350 (tank + hoses).
1. Glow Plugs & Relay Failure
2. Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) Actuator Failure (M57TU2 only)
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | AO53 LHZ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | AO — Norwich, Anglia |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
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About AO53 LHZ
What car is AO53 LHZ?
AO53 LHZ is an silver Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Norwich in 2003.
What is the mileage of AO53 LHZ?
The last recorded mileage for AO53 LHZ was 211,464 miles, recorded on 5 Sep 2017 during its most recent MOT test.
Has AO53 LHZ passed its MOT?
AO53 LHZ has had 13 MOT tests with an 85% pass rate (11 passes, 2 failures). It last passed on 5 Sep 2017.
Is AO53 LHZ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, AO53 LHZ is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2003, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is AO53 LHZ?
AO53 LHZ is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.