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 Petrol 1995cc has had 18 MOT tests on record, passing 13 and failing 5 (72% pass rate). It has 165,171 miles on the clock, averaging 7,937 miles per year, around the UK average of 7,400. The 2.0i engine is known for valve stem seals. Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for BF53 VGJ
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
About average| Latest reading | 165,171 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 4,491 |
| Average per year | 7,937 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check BF53 VGJ
- 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 18 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Bmw 3 Series often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
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).
Valve stem seals (part of cylinder head valve train)
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | BF53 VGJ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | BF — Birmingham, Birmingham |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More BF53 V plates
Browse all BF53 V registrations from Birmingham.
About BF53 VGJ
What car is BF53 VGJ?
BF53 VGJ is a black Bmw 3 Series, petrol (1995cc). First registered in Birmingham in 2003.
What is the mileage of BF53 VGJ?
The last recorded mileage for BF53 VGJ was 165,171 miles, recorded on 7 Jul 2020 during its most recent MOT test.
Has BF53 VGJ passed its MOT?
BF53 VGJ has had 18 MOT tests with a 72% pass rate (13 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 7 Jul 2020.
Is BF53 VGJ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, BF53 VGJ 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 BF53 VGJ?
BF53 VGJ is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.