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 Volkswagen Polo Diesel 1422cc has had 23 MOT tests on record, passing 14 and failing 9 (61% pass rate). It has 279,266 miles on the clock, averaging 13,922 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. The 1.4 TDI engine is known for 1. oil pump chain & balance shaft chain wear / failure and 2. injector unit (pd pump–dooer) wear & electrical failure. Common Volkswagen Polo issues include engine-specific faults and brake pad and disc wear:.
MOT & Mileage History for RE53 DHF
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 | 279,266 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 13,922 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check RE53 DHF
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Full MOT Test History 23 tests on record
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Reported issues for this Volkswagen Polo
These are the most commonly reported problems on Volkswagen Polo models (2002–2009), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Engine-specific faults
Brake pad and disc wear:
Tyre wear and replacement:
Spark plug replacement:
1. Oil Pump Chain & Balance Shaft Chain Wear / Failure
The chain driving the oil pump and balance shaft (where fitted) is undersized for the loads imposed by the three-cylinder engine's unbalanced firing impulses. Early models are particularly vulnerable; chain tensioner wear allows excessive slack, leading to chain stretch, skip, or catastrophic failure[1].
2. Injector Unit (PD Pump–Dooer) Wear & Electrical Failure
Worn plunger seals allow diesel and engine oil to mix; electrical spools fail (sticking or electrical contact wear). These are high-wear components under the extreme pressures of the PD system[1].
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Volkswagen Polo
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | RE53 DHF |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1422cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RE — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More RE53 D plates
Browse all RE53 D registrations from Reading.
About RE53 DHF
What car is RE53 DHF?
RE53 DHF is an black Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1422cc). First registered in Reading in 2003.
What is the mileage of RE53 DHF?
The last recorded mileage for RE53 DHF was 279,266 miles, recorded on 22 Sep 2022 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RE53 DHF passed its MOT?
RE53 DHF has had 23 MOT tests with a 61% pass rate (14 passes, 9 failures). It last passed on 22 Sep 2022.
Is RE53 DHF ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RE53 DHF 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 RE53 DHF?
RE53 DHF is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.