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 25 MOT tests on record, passing 17 and failing 8 (68% pass rate). It has 189,516 miles on the clock, averaging 7,518 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 PF53 BTX
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
About average| Latest reading | 189,516 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 9 |
| Average per year | 7,518 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check PF53 BTX
- 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 25 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
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).
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
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | PF53 BTX |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | PF — Preston, Preston |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More PF53 B plates
Browse all PF53 B registrations from Preston.
About PF53 BTX
What car is PF53 BTX?
PF53 BTX is a grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Preston in 2003.
What is the mileage of PF53 BTX?
The last recorded mileage for PF53 BTX was 189,516 miles, recorded on 30 Jul 2024 during its most recent MOT test.
Has PF53 BTX passed its MOT?
PF53 BTX has had 25 MOT tests with a 68% pass rate (17 passes, 8 failures). It last passed on 30 Jul 2024.
Is PF53 BTX ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, PF53 BTX 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 PF53 BTX?
PF53 BTX is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.