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 2001 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 2926cc has had 14 MOT tests on record, passing 11 and failing 3 (79% pass rate). It has 181,092 miles on the clock, averaging 9,839 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 EF51 UPW
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
Above average| Latest reading | 181,092 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 8,118 |
| Average per year | 9,839 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check EF51 UPW
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Full MOT Test History 14 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 | EF51 UPW |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2001 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | EF — Chelmsford, Essex |
| Age identifier | 51 — September 2001 to February 2002 |
More EF51 U plates
Browse all EF51 U registrations from Chelmsford.
About EF51 UPW
What car is EF51 UPW?
EF51 UPW is an black Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Chelmsford in 2001.
What is the mileage of EF51 UPW?
The last recorded mileage for EF51 UPW was 181,092 miles, recorded on 30 May 2020 during its most recent MOT test.
Has EF51 UPW passed its MOT?
EF51 UPW has had 14 MOT tests with a 79% pass rate (11 passes, 3 failures). It last was tested on 30 May 2020.
Is EF51 UPW ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, EF51 UPW is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2001, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is EF51 UPW?
EF51 UPW is approximately 25 years old. Age identifier 51 means registered between 1 September 2001 and 28 February 2002.