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 24 MOT tests on record, passing 17 and failing 7 (71% pass rate). It has 126,212 miles on the clock, averaging 5,682 miles per year, below 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 DE53 VUV
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
Below average| Latest reading | 126,212 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 5,682 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check DE53 VUV
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Full MOT Test History 24 tests on record
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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
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | DE53 VUV |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | DE — Chester, Deeside to Shrewsbury |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More DE53 V plates
Browse all DE53 V registrations from Chester.
About DE53 VUV
What car is DE53 VUV?
DE53 VUV is a blue Bmw 3 Series, petrol (1995cc). First registered in Chester in 2003.
What is the mileage of DE53 VUV?
The last recorded mileage for DE53 VUV was 126,212 miles, recorded on 18 Feb 2026 during its most recent MOT test.
Has DE53 VUV passed its MOT?
DE53 VUV has had 24 MOT tests with a 71% pass rate (17 passes, 7 failures). It last passed on 18 Feb 2026.
Is DE53 VUV ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, DE53 VUV 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 DE53 VUV?
DE53 VUV is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.