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 2004 Bmw 3 Series Diesel 1995cc has had 11 MOT tests on record, passing 8 and failing 3 (73% pass rate). It has 145,066 miles on the clock, averaging 11,003 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 RL53 DSE
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 | 145,066 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 1 |
| Average per year | 11,003 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check RL53 DSE
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Full MOT Test History 11 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).
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | RL53 DSE |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | RL — Reading, Reading |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More RL53 D plates
Browse all RL53 D registrations from Reading.
About RL53 DSE
What car is RL53 DSE?
RL53 DSE is an black Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Reading in 2004.
What is the mileage of RL53 DSE?
The last recorded mileage for RL53 DSE was 145,066 miles, recorded on 15 Jan 2014 during its most recent MOT test.
Has RL53 DSE passed its MOT?
RL53 DSE has had 11 MOT tests with a 73% pass rate (8 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 15 Jan 2014.
Is RL53 DSE ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, RL53 DSE is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2004, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is RL53 DSE?
RL53 DSE is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.