Replacing the fuel filter (every second service) (BMW 3 Series E46)

4-cylinder engine

1. Relieve pressure in the fuel system (see chapter 4A).

2. The fuel filter is located at the bottom of the vehicle (Fig. 23.2).



3. Raise the vehicle and support it securely. Remove the transmission splash guard (if applicable).

4. Clamp the filter hoses to minimize fuel loss when removing the filter. Note that on the N42 model, the pressure regulator is located in the fuel filter, so the vacuum hose from the intake manifold is also connected to it.

5. Place a suitable container under the filter, as fuel will spill out when you remove it. Loosen the clamps and remove the hoses from the filter (fig. 23.5, a, b).





6. Loosen the nut of the clamp that secures the filter to the body and pull out the filter (Fig. 23.6). Keep in mind that on the N42 engine, the fuel pressure regulator is structurally built into the filter and they cannot be separated.





7. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal. Pay attention to the arrow on the filter wall. The arrow should point in the direction of fuel flow, i.e. towards the engine.

6-cylinder engine

8. Relieve pressure in the fuel system (see chapter 4A).

9. The fuel filter is located on a bracket bolted to the chassis near the transmission (see fig. 23.2).

10. Raise the vehicle and support it securely. Remove the mudguard from under the transmission.

11. On models with the M54 engine, remove the filter assembly cover with pressure regulator.

12. On all models, note the hose connections, then pinch them. Release the hose clamps and disconnect the hoses from the filter. Be prepared for fuel to spill out of the filter.

13. On models with M54 engine, disconnect the vacuum hose from the pressure regulator (see fig. 23.5, b).

14. On all models, loosen the nut or bolt securing the filter clamp and remove the filter from under the vehicle.

15. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal. Pay attention to the arrow on the filter wall. The arrow should point in the direction of fuel flow, i.e. towards the engine. Finally, increase the pressure in the fuel system as described in Chapter 4A.