Where is the fuel filter?

[m3f_mighty-dog_11395d17be]

I'm typically mechanically inclined. But I admit, I haven't been able to determine where it is. Thanks if you can steer me in the right direction!

[m3f_salty_80d4b8491b]

I'm typically mechanically inclined. But I admit, I haven't been able to determine where it is. Thanks if you can steer me in the right direction!



The fuel filter is located on a bracket bolted to the left hand engine mounting. Access this at the bottom of the car. It is under considerable pressure (Even when engine is not running) So don't just unplug it or you will get sprayed. To depressurize the system remove the fuel pump fuse. start engine, wait for it to stall, switch off ignition, remove the fuel cap.

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

The fuel filter is located on a bracket bolted to the left hand engine mounting. Access this at the bottom of the car. It is under considerable pressure (Even when engine is not running) So don't just unplug it or you will get sprayed. To depressurize the system remove the fuel pump fuse. start engine, wait for it to stall, switch off ignition, remove the fuel cap.



Uhh I changed my friends E36's fule filter and it wasn't pressurized. The last thing you want to do is starve your engine to stall with gas... thats not good for it.



The fuel filter almost next to the front left jack point, it rests along the left front framerail under the car. Its protected by a plastic cover...

[m3f_salty_80d4b8491b]

I think your friend needs to check his fuel pressure regulator, because both times I changed the filters on my Subaru and VW, they were under considerable pressure. A lot more than a car with a carb and electric fuel pump. I was just quoting from the service manual on the procedure to depressurize the fuel system. I don't see what harm running out of gas will do. In what way is this adverse for the engine? This is not the same as a lean condition when under full throttle.

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

I think your friend needs to check his fuel pressure regulator, because both times I changed the filters on my Subaru and VW, they were under considerable pressure. A lot more than a car with a carb and electric fuel pump. I was just quoting from the service manual on the procedure. I don't see what harm a car running out of gas will do. This is not the same as a lean condition when under full throttle.



Hehe. Doesnt' matter now, he sold it :P



I was always told that letting a car run outa gas is bad. Even though its not techinally running out of gas but ya know.

[m3f_salty_80d4b8491b]

Oh, yes I would agree that running out of gas is not good. Especially if you are in a vbad neighbourhood. I have also heard that running with a low fuel tank is bad for some fuel pumps, because it relies on fuel for cooling and can overheat when it is not immersed in the stuff. Also it is the same as drinking the dregs of the beer!! You might ingest a cigarette butt.

[m3f_desmo001]

Pulling the fuse and running the car until it dies is a recommended way of depressurizing the fuel system, but there was still pressure in the line even after I cranked for awhile. Maybe I pulled the wrong fuse. Another tip is to crack open your gas cap to release any built up pressure in the tank.



As others have said, the fuel filter is located under the driver side of the car... I would guess it to be directly under your left knee when in the driver seat. It's quite large, about the size of three pop cans stacked on top of each other.

[m3f_mgambini]

Older E36's like my old 1993, had the filter on the driver's side of the engine. Newer E36's like my 1999 M3, have a very long skinny filter under the drivers seat. Pull fuse #18 to depressurize. Fuel pressure is 85psi, which will spray a lot of gas around. My car did not even start when I pulled the fuse. Took a little extra cranking when I did go to start it though. Both locations are a PITA.

MikeG

[m3f_97BLKM3COU_0f375e15e2]

Can you start the car, then pull the fuse once it is running? Is this a easy DIY? Are any other parts besides a new filter needed such as new clamps, etc.? My inspection II is coming up and I want to do as much as possible by myself. Thanks.

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

Its easy once you get past the pressure issue. I'll ask for safe tips at work. You just got to be able to get the car jacked up without blocking that shield underneath. You can use the same calmps, I believe they are reusable, simlar to the ones on your radiator hoses.



Although, expect to get gas on you. The thing stays loaded with gasonline, and sometimes it can be a PITA to get thoes hoses off. Don't wear anything nice :P

[m3f_genner21_b0df9c1cac]

is there any nice write ups on this? Maybe with pics?

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

A few techs at work suggested that you just open the fuel cap for a second, and close it and thats enough to relieve the pressure in the fuel system.