Hi,
In a recent post, someoone mentioned changing out the fuel filter.
I've searched the archives, and can't find a reference to this,or in the Haynes manual, and everywhere else I've looked I've drawn a blank.
Can the filter element be changed, or does the entire pump assembly have to be changed?
My car is an '02 MCS, that just turned 28,000 miles, and it seems like a good idea.

 

I have asked this same question with no definitive answer. Everything I find says it is not serviceable.

 

For what it's worth (oughta be the name of a song...), I found this.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...07&hg=16&fg=15

 

Also, ChiliRedS, how do you like the B&M short-shifter? How much did it lessen the throw? Was it a big deal to install? It's one of the few mods I want (can afford) to install.

 

Section 160 in the Bentley Manual shows how to R&R the pump/sender unit with the integral filter.

The manual does state that the filter is a permanent part and does not need replacement.

Since there is a part # for a filter assembly it looks like it can be replaced. Don't forget, you need two.

Fuel Filter with new rubber washers 16146757196 $37.30 Pelican Parts

 

I have the Haynes manual too. The Bently pictures are MUCH better.

It does say that in the R&R section but in the front it simply says there is no "interval" specified for replacement. I am skeptical of this as I have seen lots of filters get clogged with clean gas. Artoo only gets Shell but he has about 70,000 miles and I am thinking it's time to get at that filter.

The OEM part number is 16146757196. It looks to be a large filter about the same size as an oil filter from the pictures. But I still think a clean one is better than a dirty one. I remember somewhere that someone said it takes a half-hour to replace. From the looks of the instructions I'd budget more as it's under the rear seat and the tanks should be almost empty to do this. And it also seems you only need one. The left fuel sensor (there is one on each side of the tank) has the pump and the right one has the filter. What were they thinking? At least it's not as bad as the Cady or the Lexus as they have the starter motors under the intake manifold. I was blown away when I saw that as if that part would never go bad.

Anyway, I would like to hear from someone who has actually done before I go at it but the next time I am at the dealer I think I'll be taking home a clean new filter.

Rich

 

PM sent on shifter.

 

I was interested in your answer. I have A B&M here for Artoo and was concerned about the almost 2 inches shorter stick.

Can you PM me too?

Rich

 

I got the fuel filter with the washers for 35 bux today and tryed to change it out with no success. It's pretty easy to get to and pull out the white housing which the filter is in , but it seems like it won't open to get to it. The filter housing does have a sealed clamp around it , so I do not know if that is suppose to be broken and replaced again or if there is another way to get to the filter. Put everything back together until I figure out how its done. One of you peeps should know as always. Below is a picture of the housing and where the clamp is , the clamp does not show in the pic though.

 

BUMP !! Anyone knows how to replace this god damn filter ? LOL Any tip on how to open the case would be great. Thanks

 

Please tell me it isnt that hard to do? Now, where is this housing mounted ( Top, bottom, side of fuel cell)?

 

I believe it is accessed from the top once the rear seat is removed. Not sure which side of the tank it is though. I believe there a 2 access port, one on each side of the tank. One side is the pump/filter and the other the fuel gauge sending unit.

 

That is correct. The filter is in the housing on the pass. side. I cant get the housing to open up.

 

**deleted duplicate**

 

I, too, tried to change the fuel filter on my '02 Mini today to no avail. Like COOUUPER S, I could not get the housing open. I twisted with all I had; even resorted to a pair of pliers to grip the top for leverage. Nothing. Is the 2002 different from newer models in this respect? Is the Justacooper different from the S?

 

Just curious why you all think the fuel filter needs to be changed...

 

I have changed mine twice now in some 96K miles.....I would do it every 40K max. The crappy black fuel in there and the black filter was convincing enough for me.

Use two thick rags, one to grab top portion and one to grab bottom portion. Strong hands are needed to twist them apart. I also wear rubber gloves to keep gasoline off hands and the rubber gloves against the rags makes for better grip.

Hope this helps.

 

For those who couldn't find anything I found this. Changing the fuel filter is on my to-do list. As soon as I have my RMW cam and 380 injectors installed.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...hange-mcs.html