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 12 MOT tests on record, passing 7 and failing 5 (58% pass rate). It has 179,290 miles on the clock, averaging 16,332 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 DE52 NBJ
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 | 179,290 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 16,332 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check DE52 NBJ
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Full MOT Test History 12 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 | DE52 NBJ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2002 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | DE — Chester, Deeside to Shrewsbury |
| Age identifier | 52 — September 2002 to February 2003 |
More DE52 N plates
Browse all DE52 N registrations from Chester.
About DE52 NBJ
What car is DE52 NBJ?
DE52 NBJ is a silver Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Chester in 2002.
What is the mileage of DE52 NBJ?
The last recorded mileage for DE52 NBJ was 179,290 miles, recorded on 27 Dec 2012 during its most recent MOT test.
Has DE52 NBJ passed its MOT?
DE52 NBJ has had 12 MOT tests with a 58% pass rate (7 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 27 Dec 2012.
Is DE52 NBJ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, DE52 NBJ 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 DE52 NBJ?
DE52 NBJ is approximately 24 years old. Age identifier 52 means registered between 1 September 2002 and 28 February 2003.