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 2979cc has had 28 MOT tests on record, passing 20 and failing 8 (71% pass rate). It has 165,142 miles on the clock, averaging 6,997 miles per year, below 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 MW53 JBY
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 | 165,142 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 238 |
| Average per year | 6,997 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check MW53 JBY
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- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 28 tests on record
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Buyers comparing the Bmw 3 Series often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
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 | MW53 JBY |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2979cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | MW — Manchester, Manchester and Merseyside |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More MW53 J plates
Browse all MW53 J registrations from Manchester.
About MW53 JBY
What car is MW53 JBY?
MW53 JBY is an black Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2979cc). First registered in Manchester in 2003.
What is the mileage of MW53 JBY?
The last recorded mileage for MW53 JBY was 165,142 miles, recorded on 6 Aug 2026 during its most recent MOT test.
Has MW53 JBY passed its MOT?
MW53 JBY has had 28 MOT tests with a 71% pass rate (20 passes, 8 failures). It last passed on 6 Aug 2026.
Is MW53 JBY ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, MW53 JBY 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 MW53 JBY?
MW53 JBY is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.