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 Volkswagen Polo Diesel 1422cc has had 11 MOT tests on record, passing 9 and failing 2 (82% pass rate). It has 94,853 miles on the clock, averaging 8,799 miles per year, around the UK average of 7,400. The 1.4 TDI engine is known for 1. oil pump chain & balance shaft chain wear / failure and 2. injector unit (pd pump–dooer) wear & electrical failure. Common Volkswagen Polo issues include engine-specific faults and brake pad and disc wear:.
MOT & Mileage History for SM03 USU
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
About average| Latest reading | 94,853 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 7,994 |
| Average per year | 8,799 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM03 USU
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Full MOT Test History 11 tests on record
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Reported issues for this Volkswagen Polo
These are the most commonly reported problems on Volkswagen Polo models (2002–2009), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Engine-specific faults
Brake pad and disc wear:
Tyre wear and replacement:
Spark plug replacement:
1. Oil Pump Chain & Balance Shaft Chain Wear / Failure
The chain driving the oil pump and balance shaft (where fitted) is undersized for the loads imposed by the three-cylinder engine's unbalanced firing impulses. Early models are particularly vulnerable; chain tensioner wear allows excessive slack, leading to chain stretch, skip, or catastrophic failure[1].
2. Injector Unit (PD Pump–Dooer) Wear & Electrical Failure
Worn plunger seals allow diesel and engine oil to mix; electrical spools fail (sticking or electrical contact wear). These are high-wear components under the extreme pressures of the PD system[1].
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Volkswagen Polo
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | SM03 USU |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1422cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 03 — March 2003 to August 2003 |
More SM03 U plates
Browse all SM03 U registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM03 USU
What car is SM03 USU?
SM03 USU is an black Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1422cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2003.
What is the mileage of SM03 USU?
The last recorded mileage for SM03 USU was 94,853 miles, recorded on 21 Jul 2014 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM03 USU passed its MOT?
SM03 USU has had 11 MOT tests with an 82% pass rate (9 passes, 2 failures). It last passed on 21 Jul 2014.
Is SM03 USU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM03 USU 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 SM03 USU?
SM03 USU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 03 means registered between 1 March 2003 and 31 August 2003.