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 2005 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 1995cc has had 16 MOT tests on record, passing 11 and failing 5 (69% pass rate). It has 165,853 miles on the clock, averaging 12,742 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 RK55 VAO
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 | 165,853 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 12,742 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check RK55 VAO
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
- Stolen vehicle check Experian
- Ownership changes Experian
- Mileage discrepancy alerts
- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 16 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Bmw 3 Series often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
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
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | RK55 VAO |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2005 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RK — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 55 — September 2005 to February 2006 |
More RK55 V plates
Browse all RK55 V registrations from Reading.
About RK55 VAO
What car is RK55 VAO?
RK55 VAO is an black Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Reading in 2005.
What is the mileage of RK55 VAO?
The last recorded mileage for RK55 VAO was 165,853 miles, recorded on 15 Nov 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RK55 VAO passed its MOT?
RK55 VAO has had 16 MOT tests with a 69% pass rate (11 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 15 Nov 2018.
Is RK55 VAO ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RK55 VAO is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2005, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is RK55 VAO?
RK55 VAO is approximately 21 years old. Age identifier 55 means registered between 1 September 2005 and 28 February 2006.