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 Volkswagen Polo Diesel 1390cc has had 22 MOT tests on record, passing 16 and failing 6 (73% pass rate). It has 102,458 miles on the clock, averaging 6,383 miles per year, below the UK average of 7,400. The 1.4 TDI engine is known for 1. oil pump chain & balance shaft chain wear / failure and 2. injector unit (pd pump–dooer) wear & electrical failure. Common Volkswagen Polo issues include engine-specific faults and brake pad and disc wear:.
MOT & Mileage History for LR53 HBU
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 | 102,458 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 271 |
| Average per year | 6,383 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check LR53 HBU
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
- Stolen vehicle check Experian
- Ownership changes Experian
- Mileage discrepancy alerts
- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 22 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Volkswagen Polo often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
Reported issues for this Volkswagen Polo
These are the most commonly reported problems on Volkswagen Polo models (2002–2009), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Engine-specific faults
Brake pad and disc wear:
Tyre wear and replacement:
Spark plug replacement:
1. Oil Pump Chain & Balance Shaft Chain Wear / Failure
The chain driving the oil pump and balance shaft (where fitted) is undersized for the loads imposed by the three-cylinder engine's unbalanced firing impulses. Early models are particularly vulnerable; chain tensioner wear allows excessive slack, leading to chain stretch, skip, or catastrophic failure[1].
2. Injector Unit (PD Pump–Dooer) Wear & Electrical Failure
Worn plunger seals allow diesel and engine oil to mix; electrical spools fail (sticking or electrical contact wear). These are high-wear components under the extreme pressures of the PD system[1].
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Volkswagen Polo
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | LR53 HBU |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1390cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | LR — Stanmore, London |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More LR53 H plates
Browse all LR53 H registrations from Stanmore.
About LR53 HBU
What car is LR53 HBU?
LR53 HBU is an black Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1390cc). First registered in Stanmore in 2003.
What is the mileage of LR53 HBU?
The last recorded mileage for LR53 HBU was 102,458 miles, recorded on 24 Aug 2021 during its most recent MOT test.
Has LR53 HBU passed its MOT?
LR53 HBU has had 22 MOT tests with a 73% pass rate (16 passes, 6 failures). It last passed on 24 Aug 2021.
Is LR53 HBU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, LR53 HBU 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 LR53 HBU?
LR53 HBU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.