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 Mazda 3 Petrol 1999cc has had 15 MOT tests on record, passing 13 and failing 2 (87% pass rate). It has 116,963 miles on the clock, averaging 7,285 miles per year, below the UK average of 7,400. The 2.0L LF-DE engine is known for 1. high oil consumption and 2. plastic intake manifold swirlplate fracture.
MOT & Mileage History for ET53 DCY
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 | 116,963 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 6,441 |
| Average per year | 7,285 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
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Full MOT Test History 15 tests on record
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Reported issues for this Mazda 3
These are the most commonly reported problems on Mazda 3 models (2003–2009), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
1. High Oil Consumption (Valve Stem Seals / Connecting Rod Bearing Wear)
Valve stem seals deteriorate and allow oil to migrate past them into the combustion chamber. Worn connecting rod bearings also elevate oil consumption. This is not a catastrophic failure initially but signals internal wear.
2. Plastic Intake Manifold Swirlplate Fracture
Poor-quality plastic in early manifolds becomes brittle. The swirlplates break off and/or the shaft wears and fractures. Broken pieces can enter the cylinder, causing catastrophic damage if not caught early.
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | ET53 DCY |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1999cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | ET — Chelmsford, Essex |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
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About ET53 DCY
What car is ET53 DCY?
ET53 DCY is an silver Mazda 3, petrol (1999cc). First registered in Chelmsford in 2003.
What is the mileage of ET53 DCY?
The last recorded mileage for ET53 DCY was 116,963 miles, recorded on 2 Nov 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has ET53 DCY passed its MOT?
ET53 DCY has had 15 MOT tests with an 87% pass rate (13 passes, 2 failures). It last passed on 2 Nov 2018.
Is ET53 DCY ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, ET53 DCY 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 ET53 DCY?
ET53 DCY is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.