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 1995cc has had 20 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 8 (60% pass rate). It has 108,932 miles on the clock, averaging 7,643 miles per year, around 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 SSU
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failures recorded
Average miles/year
Gap in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
About average| Latest reading | 108,932 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 32,252 |
| Average per year | 7,643 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check DE53 SSU
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Full MOT Test History 20 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).
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | DE53 SSU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | DE — Chester, Deeside to Shrewsbury |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More DE53 S plates
Browse all DE53 S registrations from Chester.
About DE53 SSU
What car is DE53 SSU?
DE53 SSU is a grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Chester in 2003.
What is the mileage of DE53 SSU?
The last recorded mileage for DE53 SSU was 108,932 miles, recorded on 11 Oct 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has DE53 SSU passed its MOT?
DE53 SSU has had 20 MOT tests with a 60% pass rate (12 passes, 8 failures). It last passed on 11 Oct 2018.
Is DE53 SSU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, DE53 SSU 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 DE53 SSU?
DE53 SSU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.