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 2926cc has had 13 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing once (92% pass rate). It has 157,235 miles on the clock, averaging 8,629 miles per year, around 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 FJ53 UTW
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failure recorded
Average miles/year
Gap in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
About average| Latest reading | 157,235 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 13,019 |
| Average per year | 8,629 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check FJ53 UTW
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Full MOT Test History 13 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 | FJ53 UTW |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | FJ — Nottingham, Forest and Fens |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More FJ53 U plates
Browse all FJ53 U registrations from Nottingham.
About FJ53 UTW
What car is FJ53 UTW?
FJ53 UTW is an blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Nottingham in 2003.
What is the mileage of FJ53 UTW?
The last recorded mileage for FJ53 UTW was 157,235 miles, recorded on 1 Nov 2017 during its most recent MOT test.
Has FJ53 UTW passed its MOT?
FJ53 UTW has had 13 MOT tests with an 92% pass rate (12 passes, 1 failure). It last passed on 1 Nov 2017.
Is FJ53 UTW ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, FJ53 UTW 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 FJ53 UTW?
FJ53 UTW is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.