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 4 MOT tests on record, passing 3 and failing once (75% pass rate). It has 97,566 miles on the clock, averaging 18,029 miles per year, above 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 MA53 VHX
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
Above average| Latest reading | 97,566 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 93 |
| Average per year | 18,029 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check MA53 VHX
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Full MOT Test History 4 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 | MA53 VHX |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | MA — Manchester, Manchester and Merseyside |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
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About MA53 VHX
What car is MA53 VHX?
MA53 VHX is an grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Manchester in 2003.
What is the mileage of MA53 VHX?
The last recorded mileage for MA53 VHX was 97,566 miles, recorded on 1 Dec 2008 during its most recent MOT test.
Has MA53 VHX passed its MOT?
MA53 VHX has had 4 MOT tests with a 75% pass rate (3 passes, 1 failure). It last passed on 1 Dec 2008.
Is MA53 VHX ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, MA53 VHX 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 MA53 VHX?
MA53 VHX is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.