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 2002 Bmw 3 Series Petrol 1995cc has had 6 MOT tests on record, passing every one. It has 178,022 miles on the clock, averaging 12,682 miles per year, above 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 RL51 XBU
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 | 178,022 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 11,446 |
| Average per year | 12,682 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check RL51 XBU
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- Plate & colour change history
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- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 6 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 | RL51 XBU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2002 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RL — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 51 — September 2001 to February 2002 |
More RL51 X plates
Browse all RL51 X registrations from Reading.
About RL51 XBU
What car is RL51 XBU?
RL51 XBU is an silver Bmw 3 Series, petrol (1995cc). First registered in Reading in 2002.
What is the mileage of RL51 XBU?
The last recorded mileage for RL51 XBU was 178,022 miles, recorded on 25 Apr 2012 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RL51 XBU passed its MOT?
RL51 XBU has had 6 MOT tests with an 100% pass rate (6 passes, 0 failures). It last passed on 25 Apr 2012.
Is RL51 XBU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RL51 XBU is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a petrol vehicle registered in 2002, it typically does not meet the Euro 4 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is RL51 XBU?
RL51 XBU is approximately 24 years old. Age identifier 51 means registered between 1 September 2001 and 28 February 2002.