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 1995cc has had 22 MOT tests on record, passing 14 and failing 8 (64% pass rate). It has 130,256 miles on the clock, averaging 6,839 miles per year, below the UK average of 7,400. The 2.0i engine is known for valve stem seals. Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for RF53 GRU
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
Below average| Latest reading | 130,256 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 2,993 |
| Average per year | 6,839 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check RF53 GRU
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Full MOT Test History 22 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).
Valve stem seals (part of cylinder head valve train)
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | RF53 GRU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RF — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More RF53 G plates
Browse all RF53 G registrations from Reading.
About RF53 GRU
What car is RF53 GRU?
RF53 GRU is an black Bmw 3 Series, petrol (1995cc). First registered in Reading in 2003.
What is the mileage of RF53 GRU?
The last recorded mileage for RF53 GRU was 130,256 miles, recorded on 25 Jan 2021 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RF53 GRU passed its MOT?
RF53 GRU has had 22 MOT tests with a 64% pass rate (14 passes, 8 failures). It last was tested on 25 Jan 2021.
Is RF53 GRU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RF53 GRU 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 RF53 GRU?
RF53 GRU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.