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 13 MOT tests on record, passing 10 and failing 3 (77% pass rate). It has 165,856 miles on the clock, averaging 10,121 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 OU53 BUF
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
Above average| Latest reading | 165,856 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 34 |
| Average per year | 10,121 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
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Full MOT Test History 13 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 | OU53 BUF |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | OU — Oxford, Oxford |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More OU53 B plates
Browse all OU53 B registrations from Oxford.
About OU53 BUF
What car is OU53 BUF?
OU53 BUF is an blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Oxford in 2003.
What is the mileage of OU53 BUF?
The last recorded mileage for OU53 BUF was 165,856 miles, recorded on 13 May 2016 during its most recent MOT test.
Has OU53 BUF passed its MOT?
OU53 BUF has had 13 MOT tests with a 77% pass rate (10 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 13 May 2016.
Is OU53 BUF ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, OU53 BUF 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 OU53 BUF?
OU53 BUF is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.