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 8 MOT tests on record, passing 7 and failing once (88% pass rate). It has 173,347 miles on the clock, averaging 17,566 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 RF53 NZO
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failure recorded
Average miles/year
Gaps in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Above average| Latest reading | 173,347 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 16,131 |
| Average per year | 17,566 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check RF53 NZO
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Full MOT Test History 8 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 | RF53 NZO |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 2926cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RF — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More RF53 N plates
Browse all RF53 N registrations from Reading.
About RF53 NZO
What car is RF53 NZO?
RF53 NZO is an blue Bmw 3 Series, diesel (2926cc). First registered in Reading in 2003.
What is the mileage of RF53 NZO?
The last recorded mileage for RF53 NZO was 173,347 miles, recorded on 16 Oct 2012 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RF53 NZO passed its MOT?
RF53 NZO has had 8 MOT tests with an 88% pass rate (7 passes, 1 failure). It last passed on 16 Oct 2012.
Is RF53 NZO ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RF53 NZO 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 RF53 NZO?
RF53 NZO is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.