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 29 MOT tests on record, passing 17 and failing 12 (59% pass rate). It has 228,054 miles on the clock, averaging 10,475 miles per year, above 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 RA52 UVM
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
Above average| Latest reading | 228,054 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 1 |
| Average per year | 10,475 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check RA52 UVM
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Full MOT Test History 29 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).
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
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | RA52 UVM |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RA — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 52 — September 2002 to February 2003 |
More RA52 U plates
Browse all RA52 U registrations from Reading.
About RA52 UVM
What car is RA52 UVM?
RA52 UVM is an black Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Reading in 2003.
What is the mileage of RA52 UVM?
The last recorded mileage for RA52 UVM was 228,054 miles, recorded on 12 Aug 2024 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RA52 UVM passed its MOT?
RA52 UVM has had 29 MOT tests with a 59% pass rate (17 passes, 12 failures). It last passed on 12 Aug 2024.
Is RA52 UVM ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RA52 UVM 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 RA52 UVM?
RA52 UVM is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 52 means registered between 1 September 2002 and 28 February 2003.