Broken White Retainer Piece on Fuel Hose

[Fresh1179]

I replaced my fuel filter today and the excellent plastic these cars are known for broke on the end of the rear fuel supply line going into the rear of the fuel filter. I was crumbling, and falling out of the line so I removed it, then put the line back on the filter. The line still attaches to the filter and there are no leaks. Do I need to replace the entire rear hardline or can I "wing it" with the current setup and deal with removal further down the line. Basically, will the absence of the white collar/release piece compromise the line connection and result in a leak? Any thoughts?

[MathewM3]

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BL93-USA-04-2002-E46-BMW-M3&diagId=16_0484

I would replace it to have peace of mind. I do have a bit of OCD though.

[Icecream]

I can't recall for sure but isn't that plastic just to release the line?

[sapote]

I replaced my fuel filter today and the excellent plastic these cars are known for broke on the end of the rear fuel supply line going into the rear of the fuel filter. I was crumbling, and falling out of the line so I removed it, then put the line back on the filter. The line still attaches to the filter and there are no leaks. Do I need to replace the entire rear hardline or can I "wing it" with the current setup and deal with removal further down the line. Basically, will the absence of the white collar/release piece compromise the line connection and result in a leak? Any thoughts?

If you are asking of the quick disconnect at the metal fuel line end, then the crumbled white plastic doesn't affect the connection or leakage; it is only for disconnecting the line and you can buy the plastic tool for that.