Checking the fuel system, replacing the fuel filter. Operation of a diesel model in winter conditions (BMW 3 Series E46)

Gasoline engine

Gasoline is highly flammable, so special precautions should be taken when working with any fuel system components. Do not smoke or approach the work area with an open flame or unprotected portable lamp. Do not perform such work in garages equipped with heating appliances that run on natural gas (such as water heaters, dryers, etc.). The work area must be well ventilated. If gasoline comes into contact with your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. Wear safety glasses and keep a fire extinguisher handy when doing any work on the fuel system. If gasoline spills, wipe up the puddle immediately, but do not keep gasoline-soaked rags in places where they can spontaneously ignite.

1. If you smell gasoline while driving or after the car has been standing in the sun, you must immediately check the condition of the entire fuel system.

2. Remove the fuel tank cap and check it for damage and corrosion. The sealing insert on the cap should be intact. If there is damage or corrosion, replace the cap.

3. Inspect the fuel system inlet and return lines for cracks. Make sure that the connections between the fuel system lines and the fuel injection system, and between the fuel system lines and the built-in fuel filter are not loose.

On vehicles equipped with fuel injection, the system pressure must be relieved before servicing the fuel lines.

4. Since some fuel system components - such as the fuel tank and some fuel system lines - are located underneath the vehicle, they are easier to inspect when the vehicle is jacked up. If this is not possible, jack up the vehicle and support it on jack stands.



5. With the vehicle raised, inspect the fuel tank and filler neck for holes, cracks, or other damage. Pay particular attention to the condition of the connection between the filler neck and the tank. Sometimes fuel leaks occur due to loose rubber neck clamps or damage to the neck material. Inspect all fuel tank mounting brackets and straps to ensure that the tank is securely fastened to the vehicle.

Never, under any circumstances, attempt to repair the fuel tank (excluding the replacement of its rubber components). A welding flame or any other open flame can easily cause the gasoline vapor inside the tank to explode.

6. Carefully inspect all fuel hoses and metal lines coming from the tank for loose connections, twists, signs of wear on hose materials, and other damage. Repair or replace damaged sections as necessary.

Diesel engine

Operation in winter conditions

7. No additives are added to diesel fuel. Addition of kerosene is permitted – refer to Specifications.

8. If the engine does not start due to thickening of the fuel, it is very difficult to start it. To start:

• a) Remove the fuel filter and heat it in a water bath until the fuel becomes liquid, or replace it with a new one.
• b) Roll the car into a heated garage.
• c) Spray the fuel system with hot water.
• d) BOSCH supplies a diesel heater for additional installation. The electric heater is installed in an additional pipeline to the fuel filter.

Under no circumstances should the injection system or fuel tank be heated with a blowtorch or other similar device due to the risk of explosion!

Removal sediment/replacing the fuel filter

Water must be removed from the filter regularly or when a corresponding signal appears on the control panel. Water usually forms in the fuel tank as a result of condensation or enters with the fuel at the filling station.

To carry out the work you will need:

• Hand vacuum pump with a container for collecting fuel from the filter, for example, KLANN LI-75200.
• Fuel filter cartridge.
• Filter cover sealing ring.
• A container for collecting water contained in the filter.

If leaking diesel fuel gets on rubber parts, they must be wiped off immediately (coolant hoses). Otherwise, the fuel will gradually cause the rubber parts to fail.

Protect the environment, never pour out used oil or dispose of it with household waste.

Removal

Do not smoke, use open fire or hot or very hot objects near the workplace. There is a risk of fire! Keep a fire extinguisher at hand. Always ensure that the workplace is sufficiently ventilated. Fuel vapors are toxic.

1. Turn off the ignition.

2. Unscrew the cover on the fuel filter housing using a 27 mm head.

3. Have a rag handy. Remove the old fuel cartridge and wipe off any dripping fuel.

Installation

1. Before installing a new cartridge, it is necessary to remove water from the fuel filter housing. For this, a regular hand vacuum pump is required, for example, KLANN LI-75200. Insert the suction tube into the filter housing.

2. Using a hand pump, pump the liquid out of the filter housing into a container.

3. Check if there is any dirt in the filter housing. If necessary, wipe the housing with a cloth.



4. Insert the new cartridge.

5. Screw on the cover with a new sealing ring to a torque of 25 Nm.

6. Turn on the ignition for one minute without starting the engine. The fuel pump will turn on, fill the fuel filter and remove air from the fuel system.

7. Visually check the tightness of the fuel system, in particular at the fuel filter connections.