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 14 MOT tests on record, passing 13 and failing once (93% pass rate). It has 109,308 miles on the clock, averaging 7,037 miles per year, below 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 SM53 VXJ
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failure recorded
Average miles/year
Gaps in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Below average| Latest reading | 109,308 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 1,883 |
| Average per year | 7,037 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM53 VXJ
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- Plate & colour change history
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- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 14 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 | SM53 VXJ |
| Make | Bmw |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Colour | Grey |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1995cc |
| Year | 2003 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More SM53 V plates
Browse all SM53 V registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM53 VXJ
What car is SM53 VXJ?
SM53 VXJ is an grey Bmw 3 Series, diesel (1995cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2003.
What is the mileage of SM53 VXJ?
The last recorded mileage for SM53 VXJ was 109,308 miles, recorded on 6 Oct 2018 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM53 VXJ passed its MOT?
SM53 VXJ has had 14 MOT tests with an 93% pass rate (13 passes, 1 failure). It last passed on 6 Oct 2018.
Is SM53 VXJ ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM53 VXJ 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 SM53 VXJ?
SM53 VXJ is approximately 23 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.