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 2002 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 2926cc has had 16 MOT tests on record, passing 11 and failing 5 (69% pass rate). It has 122,243 miles on the clock, averaging 6,553 miles per year, below 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 EX52 SZJ
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 | 122,243 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 39 |
| Average per year | 6,553 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check EX52 SZJ
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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).
1. Glow Plugs & Relay Failure
2. Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) Actuator Failure (M57TU2 only)
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | EX52 SZJ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2002 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | EX — Chelmsford, Essex |
| Age identifier | 52 — September 2002 to February 2003 |
More EX52 S plates
Browse all EX52 S registrations from Chelmsford.
About EX52 SZJ
What car is EX52 SZJ?
EX52 SZJ is an blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Chelmsford in 2002.
What is the mileage of EX52 SZJ?
The last recorded mileage for EX52 SZJ was 122,243 miles, recorded on 19 Jul 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has EX52 SZJ passed its MOT?
EX52 SZJ has had 16 MOT tests with a 69% pass rate (11 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 19 Jul 2018.
Is EX52 SZJ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, EX52 SZJ is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2002, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is EX52 SZJ?
EX52 SZJ is approximately 24 years old. Age identifier 52 means registered between 1 September 2002 and 28 February 2003.