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I'm currently experiencing a fuel leak coming from the fuel filter housing in my 2002 Mini Cooper (Base model/R50). It seems to be flowing from between the top of the housing and the metal locking ring that holds it down. This is only when the car is running. It fills the top of the housing and then drips down the tank to the floor. I changed the fuel filter, o-rings, and gasket first time I noticed it but it still does it. I put a fuel pressure tester on the fuel rail and this is what I got. 10psi with the key in position II; just above 40psi with the car running after about 5 minutes. Pressure drops rapidly once I turn off the car. I'm guessing cause of that gas coming from the fuel filter housing. I'm not sure what else to check. The car runs fine and cranks up on the first time most times. Any suggestions or input on the matter will be greatly appreciated.
-2002 Mini Cooper Base/r50 180k miles
Last edited by 0ffthehizzy; May 15, 2016 at 02:34 PM.
I'm currently experiencing a fuel leak coming from the fuel filter housing in my 2002 Mini Cooper (Base model/R50). It seems to be flowing from between the top of the housing and the metal locking ring that holds it down. This is only when the car is running. It fills the top of the housing and then drips down the tank to the floor. I changed the fuel filter, o-rings, and gasket first time I noticed it but it still does it. I put a fuel pressure tester on the fuel rail and this is what I got. 10psi with the key in position II; just above 40psi with the car running after about 5 minutes. I'm not sure what else to check. Any suggestions or input on the matter will be greatly appreciated.
-2002 Mini Cooper Base/r50 180k miles
Hi Offthehizzy. Here are a few options for the filter and/or pump seals in both Value Line and OEM. They should solve the problem.
So, before you replaced the fuel filter you did not have a fuel leak? If you used a Vaico brand filter people are pointing out that the o-rings are too large and have caused no start issues. What brand fuel filter did you use? Did you make sure everything was tightened down and not loose?
So, before you replaced the fuel filter you did not have a fuel leak? If you used a Vaico brand filter people are pointing out that the o-rings are too large and have caused no start issues. What brand fuel filter did you use? Did you make sure everything was tightened down and not loose?
It was leaking prior to the filter change, which is the reason I decided to change it. I do believe it was the Vaico brand filter kit that I used. I have ordered the Genuine Mini filter from RM European and it should arrive tomorrow.
I suggest you reassemble it....often the o-ring slips, so the pump can't build psi,leading to a no-start...bit sounds like you found a new way to have it slip!!
It was leaking prior to the filter change, which is the reason I decided to change it. I do believe it was the Vaico brand filter kit that I used. I have ordered the Genuine Mini filter from RM European and it should arrive tomorrow.
Just read it was leaking BEFORE the filter....
Sounds like you might need a new unit...housing, pump and all....
My guess...if the old filter was leaking.... And the new filter leaks...it was not the filter....
It was leaking prior to the filter change, which is the reason I decided to change it. I do believe it was the Vaico brand filter kit that I used. I have ordered the Genuine Mini filter from RM European and it should arrive tomorrow.
Before you use another new fuel filter kit, since it was leaking before and it is still leaking you may want to inspect the actual assembly. Also, maybe check the connector as there is an o-rings on it, #4 below. Check the line as well.
Update: replaced the filter with the Genuine Mini kit and everything felt like it was a much better fit. Unfortunately, it still leaks :/
Before I continue I would like to take a minute to show my graditude and appreciation to all of you who have had input. The Mini community is truely a great group of people.
From what I can notice the fuel is escaping from beneath the metal lock ring and the the housing. could that be too loose? I didnt see any obvious crack or damamge on the housing. the car runs and starts fine. Fuel pump seems to be doing its job just fine.
Again, any further suggestion and advice is greatly appreciated.
Picture would help. You want to make sure that the tang (green arrow) on the rear of the upper cover fits in between the grooves on the fuel tank (purple arrows). You'll want to make sure it's seated properly.
i tried getting multiple angles. I got one before is started the car, the rest is with the car running. ( car ran for 2 minutes tops then i shut it off)
You could try and see if replacing the green clip might fix it, which I posted above. If you soak up the gas with a towel and have someone turn the key on you might be able to find the source. It could ultimately be a small crack in the housing.
UPDATE:
I tried replacing the green clip with no such luck. So I Bought a whole new sending unit. Put that in last night and now NO MORE LEAKING! $150 is well worth not having to leak fuel and potentially blow up.
UPDATE:
I tried replacing the green clip with no such luck. So I Bought a whole new sending unit. Put that in last night and now NO MORE LEAKING! $150 is well worth not having to leak fuel and potentially blow up.
