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 1995cc has had 10 MOT tests on record, passing 9 and failing once (90% pass rate). It has 142,784 miles on the clock, averaging 12,541 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 SB53 USJ
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failure recorded
Average miles/year
Gap in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Above average| Latest reading | 142,784 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 8,067 |
| Average per year | 12,541 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check SB53 USJ
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Full MOT Test History 10 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 | SB53 USJ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SB — Glasgow, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More SB53 U plates
Browse all SB53 U registrations from Glasgow.
About SB53 USJ
What car is SB53 USJ?
SB53 USJ is an grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Glasgow in 2003.
What is the mileage of SB53 USJ?
The last recorded mileage for SB53 USJ was 142,784 miles, recorded on 13 Feb 2015 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SB53 USJ passed its MOT?
SB53 USJ has had 10 MOT tests with an 90% pass rate (9 passes, 1 failure). It last passed on 13 Feb 2015.
Is SB53 USJ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SB53 USJ 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 SB53 USJ?
SB53 USJ is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.