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 16 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 4 (75% pass rate). It has 141,658 miles on the clock, averaging 6,904 miles per year, below 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 EF53 DCU
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
Below average| Latest reading | 141,658 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 6,904 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check EF53 DCU
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Full MOT Test History 16 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 | EF53 DCU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | EF — Chelmsford, Essex |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More EF53 D plates
Browse all EF53 D registrations from Chelmsford.
About EF53 DCU
What car is EF53 DCU?
EF53 DCU is an grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Chelmsford in 2003.
What is the mileage of EF53 DCU?
The last recorded mileage for EF53 DCU was 141,658 miles, recorded on 28 Feb 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has EF53 DCU passed its MOT?
EF53 DCU has had 16 MOT tests with a 75% pass rate (12 passes, 4 failures). It last passed on 28 Feb 2018.
Is EF53 DCU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, EF53 DCU 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 EF53 DCU?
EF53 DCU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.