Every 38,000 km or every two years.
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 performing any work on the fuel system.
1. On fuel injection models, relieve the fuel system pressure (see chapter Power supply system).
2. The fuel filter is located in the engine compartment on the bulkhead or under the vehicle next to the fuel tank.
3. On some models, the filter is located close to the starter, so fuel can flow directly onto the electrical connectors. Therefore, for safety reasons, disconnect the negative battery cable before starting work.
If your vehicle's radio is equipped with an anti-theft system, make sure you enter the correct code before disconnecting the battery.
If the instrument cluster displays the wrong language after connecting the battery, refer to Section Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language, which describes the procedure for installing the required language.
4. Place a container or rags under the fuel filter to catch any spilled fuel. If you have suitable hose clamps, secure the inlet and outlet hoses with them.
5. Disconnect the hoses (A) and loosen the screws/nuts (B) of the bracket, then remove the filter and, where applicable, the bracket assembly.(shown for models with fuel injection system).
6. Disconnect the filter from the bracket.
7. Install in reverse order. Make sure that the arrows on the filter point in the direction of fuel flow.
[The original text is available on the website: «BMWman»]