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 2004 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 2993cc has had 12 MOT tests on record, passing 9 and failing 3 (75% pass rate). It has 169,804 miles on the clock, averaging 14,618 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for DE53 BKU
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 | 169,804 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 15,747 |
| Average per year | 14,618 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check DE53 BKU
- 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 12 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).
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 | DE53 BKU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2993cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | DE — Chester, Deeside to Shrewsbury |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More DE53 B plates
Browse all DE53 B registrations from Chester.
About DE53 BKU
What car is DE53 BKU?
DE53 BKU is a blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2993cc). First registered in Chester in 2004.
What is the mileage of DE53 BKU?
The last recorded mileage for DE53 BKU was 169,804 miles, recorded on 22 Jan 2015 during its most recent MOT test.
Has DE53 BKU passed its MOT?
DE53 BKU has had 12 MOT tests with a 75% pass rate (9 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 22 Jan 2015.
Is DE53 BKU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, DE53 BKU is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2004, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is DE53 BKU?
DE53 BKU is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.