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 2012 Bmw 3 Series Petrol 2979cc has had 15 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 3 (80% pass rate). It has 142,187 miles on the clock, averaging 10,427 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. The 330i engine is known for 1. vanos solenoid failure and 2. hydraulic valve adjusters (lifters) – ticking noise. Common Bmw 3 Series issues include component: footwell module (frm – footraum modul) and component: steering column lock module.
MOT & Mileage History for SM12 OXU
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 | 142,187 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 3,078 |
| Average per year | 10,427 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
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Full MOT Test History 15 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 (2005–2012), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Component: Footwell Module (FRM – Footraum Modul)
Water ingress corrodes the circuit board, causing electrical failures. · Typical repair: £300-£600 (new/used module + coding at indie BMW specialist).
Component: Steering column lock module
Electronic lock seizes or fails, preventing key turn. · Typical repair: £400-£800 (bypass module or full column replacement).
Component: Manual clutch (affecting manuals only – all engines)
Dual-mass flywheel and clutch plate wear unevenly, causing judder. · Typical repair: £800-£1,200 (full clutch/flywheel kit at indie).
Component: Cabin interior trim and sunroof seals
Plastic clips/cladding loosen; sunroof drains clog, leading to leaks. · Typical repair: £100-£400 (clips/seals cleanout; full headliner £800+ if soaked).
1. VANOS Solenoid Failure
The solenoids that regulate oil flow to the cam gears wear out, causing loss of precise valve timing control.[1]
2. Hydraulic Valve Adjusters (Lifters) – Ticking Noise
Faulty hydraulic valve adjusters cause a persistent ticking or tapping noise from the cylinder head, particularly noticeable after the engine reaches operating temperature.[3]
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
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Vehicle Details
| Registration | SM12 OXU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Silver |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 2979cc |
| Year | 2012 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 12 — March 2012 to August 2012 |
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About SM12 OXU
What car is SM12 OXU?
SM12 OXU is an silver Bmw 3 Series, petrol (2979cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2012.
What is the mileage of SM12 OXU?
The last recorded mileage for SM12 OXU was 142,187 miles, recorded on 26 Sep 2025 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM12 OXU passed its MOT?
SM12 OXU has had 15 MOT tests with an 80% pass rate (12 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 26 Sep 2025.
Is SM12 OXU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM12 OXU is likely ULEZ compliant. Petrol post-2005 (Euro 4). This is an estimate based on typical emission standards — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker for a definitive answer.
How old is SM12 OXU?
SM12 OXU is approximately 14 years old. Age identifier 12 means registered between 1 March 2012 and 31 August 2012.