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 2002 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 2926cc has had 15 MOT tests on record, passing 13 and failing 2 (87% pass rate). It has 176,720 miles on the clock, averaging 2,716 miles per year, well below 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 BT51 VVM
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
Low mileage| Latest reading | 176,720 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 2,716 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check BT51 VVM
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Full MOT Test History 15 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 | BT51 VVM |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2002 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | BT — Birmingham, Birmingham |
| Age identifier | 51 — September 2001 to February 2002 |
More BT51 V plates
Browse all BT51 V registrations from Birmingham.
About BT51 VVM
What car is BT51 VVM?
BT51 VVM is a blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Birmingham in 2002.
What is the mileage of BT51 VVM?
The last recorded mileage for BT51 VVM was 176,720 miles, recorded on 27 Mar 2019 during its most recent MOT test.
Has BT51 VVM passed its MOT?
BT51 VVM has had 15 MOT tests with an 87% pass rate (13 passes, 2 failures). It last passed on 27 Mar 2019.
Is BT51 VVM ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, BT51 VVM is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2002, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is BT51 VVM?
BT51 VVM is approximately 24 years old. Age identifier 51 means registered between 1 September 2001 and 28 February 2002.