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 2004 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 1995cc has had 14 MOT tests on record, passing 10 and failing 4 (71% pass rate). It has 174,037 miles on the clock, averaging 13,720 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 RA54 ETL
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 | 174,037 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 26,867 |
| Average per year | 13,720 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check RA54 ETL
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Full MOT Test History 14 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).
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | RA54 ETL |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RA — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 54 — September 2004 to February 2005 |
More RA54 E plates
Browse all RA54 E registrations from Reading.
About RA54 ETL
What car is RA54 ETL?
RA54 ETL is an silver Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Reading in 2004.
What is the mileage of RA54 ETL?
The last recorded mileage for RA54 ETL was 174,037 miles, recorded on 17 Dec 2016 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RA54 ETL passed its MOT?
RA54 ETL has had 14 MOT tests with a 71% pass rate (10 passes, 4 failures). It last passed on 17 Dec 2016.
Is RA54 ETL ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RA54 ETL is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2004, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is RA54 ETL?
RA54 ETL is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 54 means registered between 1 September 2004 and 28 February 2005.