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 1995cc has had 15 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 3 (80% pass rate). It has 159,441 miles on the clock, averaging 8,662 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 EF04 SZL
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
About average| Latest reading | 159,441 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 14,946 |
| Average per year | 8,662 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check EF04 SZL
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- Plate & colour change history
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- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
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).
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | EF04 SZL |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | EF — Chelmsford, Essex |
| Age identifier | 04 — March 2004 to August 2004 |
More EF04 S plates
Browse all EF04 S registrations from Chelmsford.
About EF04 SZL
What car is EF04 SZL?
EF04 SZL is an grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Chelmsford in 2004.
What is the mileage of EF04 SZL?
The last recorded mileage for EF04 SZL was 159,441 miles, recorded on 18 Sep 2019 during its most recent MOT test.
Has EF04 SZL passed its MOT?
EF04 SZL has had 15 MOT tests with an 80% pass rate (12 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 18 Sep 2019.
Is EF04 SZL ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, EF04 SZL 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 EF04 SZL?
EF04 SZL is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 04 means registered between 1 March 2004 and 31 August 2004.