An extra touch I use is to write the date and mileage right on the filter with a sharpie so if info is ever lost or misplaced one can tell when it was last serviced.
Exactly! And diesel engines BMW are not to be drained or emptied! The common rail pump is lubricated by the diesel. Never run it empty! Even some later models you can bleed only by computer so not by starting up the engine.
Best fuel filter video I've seen. Viewed others that never mentioned removing the fuel pump fuse and running engine until it shuts off. True mechanic you are sir.👍👍
I changed out the fuel filter yesterday and lessons were learned. 1. make sure you don't flip flop those two inlet hoses. I did this and the car did not start. 2. You don't need silicone lubricant or whatever he is using in the video, the hoses will slide right in. 3. Tighten the heck out of those clamps. Mines were not tightened enough and when I started, fuel spilled all over my driveway.
Shon C I mean the car will not start. Starter motor will just crank but the engine will not start. Before this happens, I guess look at the old filter first and then put it just like how the old one was installed.
Anthony Mayn I ordered a filter kit from bavauto.com. My car is 04 330ci. I'm pretty sure all the e46's have same hose size and things. In bavauto.com, the kit number is B1300000. It has a silicone vaccum hose(Inner diameter of 3.5mm and outer diameter of 7.5mm), 1 meter of 8mm fuel line, and 6 hose clamps(size 10mm-16mm). Just buy the kit and you will be set
I have 2002 bmw 325i and im kinda confuse if which fuse box do i have to pull the fuse out from the one from the hood? or the one from the glove compartment?
Be sure to understand the BLUE line connecting to the rear of the filter is the "RETURN" to the tank and the the Black line from the tank connects to the "IN" of the filter. Some replacement filters will mark either the IN or the RETURN on the back end of the filter, however I have not see a manufacture mark both the RETURN and the IN -- its always just one or the other. The orientation of the vacuum line on the front of the filter has no impact or bearing on the placement of the rear IN and RETURN of your replacement filter. If you rely on the vacuum line as a "visual" indicator then you might hook the rear of the filter up incorrectly and the filter will NOT pass fuel to the engine. To get the orientation correct you must observe the markings on the rear of the filter -- ask me how I know this....hahaha
Your videos are well done and easy to follow for a noob like me. The filter looks simple enough to do, my biggest issue is with my e53. The skid plate is held on with about 30 more bolts than the car you showed, not early as simple.
Hi Thank you very much for a very informative and easy to follow diy video. It has been a great help to me as I am in the process of changing my fuel filter. (320i e46 dual vannos 2007) However, would it be possible to add a bit more information as I understand that after you have fitted the filter and re-inserted the fuse #54 you should not start the motor vehicle as you will get an error message? I am lead to believe that one should first turn the ignition to the on position - but not actually start the motor vehicle, so that the fuel filter first fills, and that one should do this a few times before actually starting the motor vehicle?
1999 2.0 6 cyl: Great help thank you. However, could not remove bracket but there is no need since the filter simply slides out with the bracket nut removed.
Hi could you show the location of the fuel pump fuse you removed prior to the filter removal!!!! Other than that great video & Do you have video's of all the other filters removal & replacement👍👍
Use heat gun to loosen fittings on rubber hose as you will need it again to put back on as it requires mini small clamp to get it to conform to metal line, of new one, so it fuse's to metal, on both ends once left to cool down for 45 minutes release clamp and turn key to on, to see if it leaks. Clamp is just do that it conforms around steel line's on rear line heat only rubber hose that empty of fuel, should only take about 15 to 30 seconds to heat hose up and apply to steel line's. If area is wet then install line's before fuel filter, and make sure it's secure clamp may be required, for some of them. 'If you incurr lock secure clamps becareful not to damage them and round part that enters into clamp connector can be very lightly oiled or rubber gasket can be used for secure no leak connection if "available". if not then install with drop of oil around inner part of clamp should not leak but if it blows out means you used to much. let dry for few hours or you can apply daid of glue to oil or inner clamp to keep from pulling apart or " recommended " locktight" Remember to make a note that use of heat gun is necessary for removal of lock clamp after lock tighting.
Thanks.. You are really respecting your viewers with complete demonstration..next time I am sure I will change oil filter of my BMW by myself.. 🙂 Thanks again
Just like to add that in order to prevent excess fuel spillage, it's advised to run the motor with the fuel pump fuse removed until the motor stops, so would be little fuel left in the hoses.
***** - This is what we note at the beginning of the under-car part of the video (at 2:00). Thanks for making note, though, in case others may have missed it.
Should put the fuel pump fuse back in and start the car to check for leaks before putting shield back on. Ninety nine percent of the times there shouldn't be any leaks if you use new hoses like in the video but even then you should check for leaks before putting the shield back on. Especially if you're a DiY'er laying on the ground and due to laziness or just oversight would skip or forget this crucial step. Often don't want to go up and come back down just to check for leaks and put the shield back on but it is of the utmost importance that there aren't any leaks. Brand new hoses could be defective from factory. Otherwise you might not even know you have a leak or if you do see it you will have to take off the shield and fix the leak and then put the shield back on again. Not a big dea in this caseluckily since it's only a few nuts but some require an ungodly amount to remove the shield. Just a good habit to get into so you don't forget which is easy to do. Especially when you already have exposed fuel earlier you can't snell if there is a leak until you realize the smell never goes away or you see liquid fuel dripping or spraying on the ground. If it's a cery small leak you may never ever find out. If you have a leak that would suck because now you'll to have jack up the car one more again. Go down there a second time just to deal with the leak. Good clear video and audio instructions very helpful. Suprised how much pressure was still in the lines after running the car with the pump off.
i have a question. My vacuum was cracked and i replaced it but I want to know if that could've cost my regulator to go out on my gas filter? It's misfiring and I would like to know if I should just replace it.
Is it possible that while I was having bad O2 sensors and driving my fuel filter get bad and now after I change o2 sensors car crank but not start up ..... ?? Thx
Need a shop like this here in the UK. BMW Main stealerships dont sell parts. My air suspension solenoid failed and BMW in luton would only sell it to me with a new compressor for £1400.00. I got the solenoid online from Germany for £30 and it took me an hour to replace as it was in an acoustic housing next to compressor. We love BMW but they pull our pants down😃
Is there a way to know what filter you need? Such as I I need he one with the regulator or not? Or do I need to pull it apart then search for the one I need and car stuck. 03 325i. Basic rwd 5spd, no power seats... What yr did they start using the different filters?
loved your video. been watching different videos on replacing fuel filters but still have not found the correct fuel filter for 2004 bmw x3 (E83). where is the fuel filter located...can't seem to find out where its at on my car...please help.
My BMW X3 2009 just couldnt start driving it and parking it at a shopping mall. It sounds like fuel is not going into the engine. Any suggestions on the problem
After the change of the oil filter, i have prime the engine 3 times and wait 5s (X3). When i tried to start up. Then motor make a startup noise but i that's all, not the final startup. Have you an idea ? best Regards!
Great video & thank you, just a shame you dont mention priming the fuel filter after replacment, especially when you have suggested removing the fuel pump fuse then start the engine to remove the fuel that remains in the filter, as this is aimed at do it yourself people you really should have shown or mentioned about priming the fuel filter befre attempting to start the car because if anyone attemps this job without that knowldge they are going to be left with an engine that dosnt run!or start! This isnt in anyway a criticsm as the video is wonderful but... to save any one that follows these instructions getting stuck with a no start situation. regards Jay
I was thinking about cleaning mine gastank out i did not know the bmw had a filter like t bird I thought it was a turbo instrument connected to the bottom of chassis somebody thought it was a bomb under the 99 T brid
Thanks for sharing this vedio, I did mine as well, but I noticed something weird! When I took off the old fuel filter, there was a gas keep coming out of the return line ! I was like thats normal, but the thing is I almost collect about 1G of gas from the return line and it never stop till I installed the new filter , Could it be the problem that Im having for having the low idle problems, Cause Im really getting tired of My e46 , I have almost changed everything in My car NEW PCV AND HOSES NEW MAF VANOS REBUILD NEW FUEL PUMP & FILTER SMOKED TEST ( NO LEAKS ) NEW AIR FILTER NEW SPARK PLUGS NEW RADIATOR ( COOLANT HOSES AND NEW THERMOSTAT ) ******* only thing I didn't change is the ICV and Disa valve And the list is keep going up since there's no SES on I really have no idea what else should I change If any one has the same issue please share the info and thanks for taking the time to read this .
Well, typically, by the time you have symptoms the filter is WAY past the recommended replacement interval. However, common symptoms can be: * Poor engine performance and/or missing at higher engine speed. May temporarily go away if engine is stopped for a few minutes. * poor engine performance at any speed. * Low fuel flow when testing the flow rate.
I have a '95 325 convertible (new to me last year) and it would be good if you also covered in these types of videos what to check for in terms of ware. The shield, the mounting bracket should be checked for signs of ware. Also, in my case, the mounding bracket was VERY TIGHT around the filter and getting that nut on was a challenge (esp since it was on ramps and not on a lift). The positioning of the rubber on the filter so it was in line with the bracket seems obvious but might also be worth mentioning. Thanks
For anyone else that is looking, links for all of the parts and tools shown are in the description box below the video (on the youtube video page). Here's the link for the flex driver: www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part=53910
And diesel engines BMW are not to be drained or emptied! The common rail pump is lubricated by the diesel. Never run it empty! Even some later models you can bleed only by computer so not by starting up the engine. Change the diesel fuel filter regularly as the moisture is killing the common rail pump, the fuel filter for diesel engines actually is a major component to maintain.
How can I avoid dry cranck? Is it sufficient to put the key in and out five times leaving 15 second time per cycle to let the diesel pump fill the circuit?
I like to get your opinion in a problem I have with my 01 m5. My car doesn't start. It cranks but doesn't start the engine. I changed the fuel filter and fuel pump. And still !!? I checked all the fuses and no luck? Also I just did brand new sparks and coils job. Any ideas? Thank you much
I think this company is out of business, tried calling 2 times today and the phone just rings, no answer . Then I waited a couple of hours and called back, the phone rang and hung up. Forget this place.
Why didnt you depressurize the lines by removing the fuel pump fuse and idling it dry, and opening the gas cap? Why didn't you use a flat head to pry off the fuel lines instead of cutting it off? You saved time by forgoing easy things, and added time by adding harder work to do. Very inefficient!
thanx Graham, i did the job this afternoon without problems. i started the car back up before replacing the shield just in case there was any leaks ?? but thankfully no !! i cut open the old filter and it was black inside, appears never to have been changed, 81,000 km
An extra touch I use is to write the date and mileage right on the filter with a sharpie so if info is ever lost or misplaced one can tell when it was last serviced.
Exactly! And diesel engines BMW are not to be drained or emptied! The common rail pump is lubricated by the diesel. Never run it empty! Even some later models you can bleed only by computer so not by starting up the engine.
I know for a fact this guy knows what he is talking about, I spoke to him several times on phone while buying bmw parts from Bavarian Auto.
Best fuel filter video I've seen. Viewed others that never mentioned removing the fuel pump fuse and running engine until it shuts off. True mechanic you are sir.👍👍
I changed out the fuel filter yesterday and lessons were learned.
1. make sure you don't flip flop those two inlet hoses. I did this and the car did not start.
2. You don't need silicone lubricant or whatever he is using in the video, the hoses will slide right in.
3. Tighten the heck out of those clamps. Mines were not tightened enough and when I started, fuel spilled all over my driveway.
Shon C I mean the car will not start. Starter motor will just crank but the engine will not start.
Before this happens, I guess look at the old filter first and then put it just like how the old one was installed.
Jason Lee what size hoses are they? I ordered the filter but I don't think I get the hoses with mine
Anthony Mayn
I ordered a filter kit from bavauto.com. My car is 04 330ci. I'm pretty sure all the e46's have same hose size and things.
In bavauto.com, the kit number is B1300000.
It has a silicone vaccum hose(Inner diameter of 3.5mm and outer diameter of 7.5mm), 1 meter of 8mm fuel line, and 6 hose clamps(size 10mm-16mm).
Just buy the kit and you will be set
Jason Lee thanks for the tips
I have 2002 bmw 325i and im kinda confuse if which fuse box do i have to pull the fuse out from the one from the hood? or the one from the glove compartment?
Be sure to understand the BLUE line connecting to the rear of the filter is the "RETURN" to the tank and the the Black line from the tank connects to the "IN" of the filter. Some replacement filters will mark either the IN or the RETURN on the back end of the filter, however I have not see a manufacture mark both the RETURN and the IN -- its always just one or the other. The orientation of the vacuum line on the front of the filter has no impact or bearing on the placement of the rear IN and RETURN of your replacement filter. If you rely on the vacuum line as a "visual" indicator then you might hook the rear of the filter up incorrectly and the filter will NOT pass fuel to the engine. To get the orientation correct you must observe the markings on the rear of the filter -- ask me how I know this....hahaha
Tape 1 line from car and same (nipple) on filter when removing. Never fails.😉
Brilliant thanks for posting.... do you have to take any other steps to remove the trapped air in new fuel filter ?
Make sure the ignition is cycle a few times after the fuel filter is fitted to prime it, in rare cases, an engine light may come on.
Your videos are well done and easy to follow for a noob like me. The filter looks simple enough to do, my biggest issue is with my e53. The skid plate is held on with about 30 more bolts than the car you showed, not early as simple.
Leave a few out!
I watched this video though I do not have the car to go with it (E92/335, N55) It was so interesting and so very well explained that I kept watching.
Hi Thank you very much for a very informative and easy to follow diy video. It has been a great help to me as I am in the process of changing my fuel filter. (320i e46 dual vannos 2007)
However, would it be possible to add a bit more information as I understand that after you have fitted the filter and re-inserted the fuse #54 you should not start the motor vehicle as you will get an error message?
I am lead to believe that one should first turn the ignition to the on position - but not actually start the motor vehicle, so that the fuel filter first fills, and that one should do this a few times before actually starting the motor vehicle?
1999 2.0 6 cyl: Great help thank you. However, could not remove bracket but there is no need since the filter simply slides out with the bracket nut removed.
Once the filter is changed, don't we have to bleed the fuel line?
NO
I wish I could find a good mechanic like you in uk. always giving attention to the details.
Hi there - Do you perhaps have a part Number for the shield you make mention of at 2:24 ?
Hi could you show the location of the fuel pump fuse you removed prior to the filter removal!!!!
Other than that great video &
Do you have video's of all the other filters removal & replacement👍👍
Use heat gun to loosen fittings on rubber hose as you will need it again to put back on as it requires mini small clamp to get it to conform to metal line, of new one, so it fuse's to metal, on both ends once left to cool down for 45 minutes release clamp and turn key to on, to see if it leaks. Clamp is just do that it conforms around steel line's on rear line heat only rubber hose that empty of fuel, should only take about 15 to 30 seconds to heat hose up and apply to steel line's. If area is wet then install line's before fuel filter, and make sure it's secure clamp may be required, for some of them.
'If you incurr lock secure clamps becareful not to damage them and round part that enters into clamp connector can be very lightly oiled or rubber gasket can be used for secure no leak connection if "available". if not then install with drop of oil around inner part of clamp should not leak but if it blows out means you used to much. let dry for few hours or you can apply daid of glue to oil or inner clamp to keep from pulling apart or " recommended " locktight"
Remember to make a note that use of heat gun is necessary for removal of lock clamp after lock tighting.
Can bad filter cause poor mpg ? I have a 318ci convertible obc says 18mpg
Will change on wife's (2008 BMW 750 Li) Next week thanks for posting the video well done keep it up.
Thanks.. You are really respecting your viewers with complete demonstration..next time I am sure I will change oil filter of my BMW by myself.. 🙂 Thanks again
Just like to add that in order to prevent excess fuel spillage, it's advised to run the motor with the fuel pump fuse removed until the motor stops, so would be little fuel left in the hoses.
***** - This is what we note at the beginning of the under-car part of the video (at 2:00). Thanks for making note, though, in case others may have missed it.
How often should one replace these filters? My 320D F30 is on 160000kms
Hi,
Your video very good! I ask you what you did use Vaseline or something before hose put? I can't hear because I am Deaf I am trying to understand.
We used clear silicone grease that is part of our micro precision lube kit. Here's the link:
www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part=BAS%20PLK1
Hi, i il really apreciate, if i il get to know if this was a 330d e46?
Why was the fuel relay and fuse not removed first and the engine started to remove the pressure first ?
What is the purpose of the vacuum line on the filter?
Should put the fuel pump fuse back in and start the car to check for leaks before putting shield back on. Ninety nine percent of the times there shouldn't be any leaks if you use new hoses like in the video but even then you should check for leaks before putting the shield back on. Especially if you're a DiY'er laying on the ground and due to laziness or just oversight would skip or forget this crucial step. Often don't want to go up and come back down just to check for leaks and put the shield back on but it is of the utmost importance that there aren't any leaks.
Brand new hoses could be defective from factory. Otherwise you might not even know you have a leak or if you do see it you will have to take off the shield and fix the leak and then put the shield back on again. Not a big dea in this caseluckily since it's only a few nuts but some require an ungodly amount to remove the shield. Just a good habit to get into so you don't forget which is easy to do. Especially when you already have exposed fuel earlier you can't snell if there is a leak until you realize the smell never goes away or you see liquid fuel dripping or spraying on the ground. If it's a cery small leak you may never ever find out. If you have a leak that would suck because now you'll to have jack up the car one more again. Go down there a second time just to deal with the leak. Good clear video and audio instructions very helpful. Suprised how much pressure was still in the lines after running the car with the pump off.
i have a question. My vacuum was cracked and i replaced it but I want to know if that could've cost my regulator to go out on my gas filter?
It's misfiring and I would like to know if I should just replace it.
Is it possible that while I was having bad O2 sensors and driving my fuel filter get bad and now after I change o2 sensors car crank but not start up ..... ?? Thx
Need a shop like this here in the UK. BMW Main stealerships dont sell parts. My air suspension solenoid failed and BMW in luton would only sell it to me with a new compressor for £1400.00. I got the solenoid online from Germany for £30 and it took me an hour to replace as it was in an acoustic housing next to compressor. We love BMW but they pull our pants down😃
Is there a way to know what filter you need? Such as I I need he one with the regulator or not? Or do I need to pull it apart then search for the one I need and car stuck. 03 325i. Basic rwd 5spd, no power seats... What yr did they start using the different filters?
Great job on the video's even when I know how to repair the job I still enjoy watching the video's
loved your video. been watching different videos on replacing fuel filters but still have not found the correct fuel filter for 2004 bmw x3 (E83). where is the fuel filter located...can't seem to find out where its at on my car...please help.
My BMW X3 2009 just couldnt start driving it and parking it at a shopping mall. It sounds like fuel is not going into the engine. Any suggestions on the problem
Did you figure your problem out?
Is this guide for the petrol or diesel model?
Both located at the same spot and use the same part.
Excellent fuel filter installation well done.
If I feel filters in the fuel tank am I able to clean it
where or how to find feul fuse?
After the change of the oil filter, i have prime the engine 3 times and wait 5s (X3).
When i tried to start up. Then motor make a startup noise but i that's all, not the final startup.
Have you an idea ? best Regards!
Great video & thank you, just a shame you dont mention priming the fuel filter after replacment, especially when you have suggested removing the fuel pump fuse then start the engine to remove the fuel that remains in the filter, as this is aimed at do it yourself people you really should have shown or mentioned about priming the fuel filter befre attempting to start the car because if anyone attemps this job without that knowldge they are going to be left with an engine that dosnt run!or start!
This isnt in anyway a criticsm as the video is wonderful but... to save any one that follows these instructions getting stuck with a no start situation.
regards Jay
How long do fuel filters last? Do they degrade with time?
I would not have cut no hose but Thank you for showing us how too very much appreciated Hugely an Happy Late Fathers Day Too!😁😄😂
Does this tutorial apply to a 2002 Z3 M Roadster 2.5?
Great video. Thanks
I was thinking about cleaning mine gastank out i did not know the bmw had a filter like t bird I thought it was a turbo instrument connected to the bottom of chassis somebody thought it was a bomb under the 99 T brid
Thanks for sharing this vedio, I did mine as well, but I noticed something weird! When I took off the old fuel filter, there was a gas keep coming out of the return line ! I was like thats normal, but the thing is I almost collect about 1G of gas from the return line and it never stop till I installed the new filter , Could it be the problem that Im having for having the low idle problems, Cause Im really getting tired of My e46 , I have almost changed everything in My car
NEW PCV AND HOSES
NEW MAF
VANOS REBUILD
NEW FUEL PUMP & FILTER
SMOKED TEST ( NO LEAKS )
NEW AIR FILTER
NEW SPARK PLUGS
NEW RADIATOR ( COOLANT HOSES AND NEW THERMOSTAT )
*******
only thing I didn't change is the ICV and Disa valve
And the list is keep going up since there's no SES on
I really have no idea what else should I change
If any one has the same issue please share the info and thanks for taking the time to read this .
True Review l
Nice video. What are the sings of bad fuel filter ?
Well, typically, by the time you have symptoms the filter is WAY past the recommended replacement interval. However, common symptoms can be:
* Poor engine performance and/or missing at higher engine speed. May temporarily go away if engine is stopped for a few minutes.
* poor engine performance at any speed.
* Low fuel flow when testing the flow rate.
Mr Otto what brand of fuel filter do you recommend beside the genuine Bmw filter for Bmw 740il 1998
Mahle or Mann are the best to go with.
I have a '95 325 convertible (new to me last year) and it would be good if you also covered in these types of videos what to check for in terms of ware. The shield, the mounting bracket should be checked for signs of ware. Also, in my case, the mounding bracket was VERY TIGHT around the filter and getting that nut on was a challenge (esp since it was on ramps and not on a lift). The positioning of the rubber on the filter so it was in line with the bracket seems obvious but might also be worth mentioning.
Thanks
Thanks for your points, Brian!
Nice work. Im getting the kit. Where can i get the hose clamp flexible driver?
For anyone else that is looking, links for all of the parts and tools shown are in the description box below the video (on the youtube video page).
Here's the link for the flex driver: www.bavauto.com/fland.asp?part=53910
And diesel engines BMW are not to be drained or emptied! The common rail pump is lubricated by the diesel. Never run it empty! Even some later models you can bleed only by computer so not by starting up the engine. Change the diesel fuel filter regularly as the moisture is killing the common rail pump, the fuel filter for diesel engines actually is a major component to maintain.
Where fuel filter on e91 325i?
100% worth doing on E39's .
How can I avoid dry cranck? Is it sufficient to put the key in and out five times leaving 15 second time per cycle to let the diesel pump fill the circuit?
a job made simple and informative also easy to follow A+++++
Good job thks
I like to get your opinion in a problem I have with my 01 m5.
My car doesn't start. It cranks but doesn't start the engine. I changed the fuel filter and fuel pump. And still !!? I checked all the fuses and no luck?
Also I just did brand new sparks and coils job.
Any ideas?
Thank you much
What size hoses?
Thanks my dear sir
Oh, thank gawd these aren’t the ridiculous quick disconnect style, having sat under the car exposed to all that road grime.
thank you
I think this company is out of business, tried calling 2 times today and the phone just rings, no answer . Then I waited a couple of hours and called back, the phone rang and hung up.
Forget this place.
They closed about a month ago. It is a shame, they were a great resource.
you are from USA or Germany?
He is from USA I believe English is not your first language...
I heard mr clutch is good,
Why didnt you depressurize the lines by removing the fuel pump fuse and idling it dry, and opening the gas cap? Why didn't you use a flat head to pry off the fuel lines instead of cutting it off? You saved time by forgoing easy things, and added time by adding harder work to do. Very inefficient!
Using silicone lube with fuel is not a good idea
Thanhs
if you have a diesel E60 DO NOT REMOVE THE FUSE WITH ENGINE RUNNING!!!
do you need to remove the fuse ? or remove fuse then run engine or not ? or no need to do either ??can you clarify
no need to do either mate
thanx Graham, i did the job this afternoon without problems. i started the car back up before replacing the shield just in case there was any leaks ?? but thankfully no !! i cut open the old filter and it was black inside, appears never to have been changed, 81,000 km
arnietwo Nice one, when i cut mine open i was certain judging by the dates on the filter it was never changed. now to remove those swirl flaps lol.
Silicon Geese fuel line; Alarm
cheak click mechanics there reviews look good!
How do you bleed the line after replacing the fuel filter?
pinaycolada929 I’d also love to know