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 Petrol 2171cc has had 14 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 2 (86% pass rate). It has 114,474 miles on the clock, averaging 5,445 miles per year, below the UK average of 7,400. The 2.2i engine is known for m54 (2.2l petrol, m54b22). Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for PJ53 BCU
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 | 114,474 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 4,063 |
| Average per year | 5,445 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check PJ53 BCU
- 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 14 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).
M54 (2.2L Petrol, M54B22)
Nut on oil pump drive shaft loosens (resonance at high RPM).[1]
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 | PJ53 BCU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 2171cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | PJ — Preston, Preston |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More PJ53 B plates
Browse all PJ53 B registrations from Preston.
About PJ53 BCU
What car is PJ53 BCU?
PJ53 BCU is a blue Bmw 3 Series, petrol (2171cc). First registered in Preston in 2003.
What is the mileage of PJ53 BCU?
The last recorded mileage for PJ53 BCU was 114,474 miles, recorded on 8 Oct 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has PJ53 BCU passed its MOT?
PJ53 BCU has had 14 MOT tests with an 86% pass rate (12 passes, 2 failures). It last passed on 8 Oct 2018.
Is PJ53 BCU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, PJ53 BCU is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a petrol vehicle registered in 2003, it typically does not meet the Euro 4 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is PJ53 BCU?
PJ53 BCU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.