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 Petrol 2494cc has had 18 MOT tests on record, passing 15 and failing 3 (83% pass rate). It has 94,280 miles on the clock, averaging 3,970 miles per year, well below the UK average of 7,400. The 2.5i engine is known for m54b25. Common Bmw 3 Series issues include rear subframe mount cracking (racp failure) and front lower control arm bushings.
MOT & Mileage History for SM53 FCU
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
Low mileage| Latest reading | 94,280 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 2,921 |
| Average per year | 3,970 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM53 FCU
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
- Stolen vehicle check Experian
- Ownership changes Experian
- Mileage discrepancy alerts
- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 18 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Bmw 3 Series often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
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).
M54B25
Diaphragm ruptures or hoses clog, pressurising crankcase and pushing oil into intake.
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Bmw 3 Series
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | SM53 FCU |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 2494cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More SM53 F plates
Browse all SM53 F registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM53 FCU
What car is SM53 FCU?
SM53 FCU is an blue Bmw 3 Series, petrol (2494cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2003.
What is the mileage of SM53 FCU?
The last recorded mileage for SM53 FCU was 94,280 miles, recorded on 17 Mar 2022 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM53 FCU passed its MOT?
SM53 FCU has had 18 MOT tests with an 83% pass rate (15 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 17 Mar 2022.
Is SM53 FCU ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM53 FCU is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a petrol vehicle registered in 2003, it typically does not meet the Euro 4 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is SM53 FCU?
SM53 FCU is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.