Just did fuel filter change on 03 MCS. I followed instructions posted by Eurothrasher which were quite good. Afterwards, I attempted to start car and no go. I turned key to initial position 5 times to prime the pump and afterwards tried to start car. No luck. I took things apart again to check them out and there was fuel in the canister. Tried again to no avail. I disconnected the fuel line, and no fuel spurted out like when I initially disconnected before the filter change. If I leave the line disconnected, then turn key, fuel does come out of the top of the assembly. So at this point I don't know what else to do. Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

Steve, how much gas in your tank ?

Seems some have said in the past that unless they had at least 1/4 to 1/2 tank of fuel, it didnt start.

 

I have about 1/4 of a tank. I will try putting more in, but it seems strange that I can get fuel to push out the top of the fuel filter housing. Thanks for the thought.

 

It would seem it's just one of those unexplained MINI quirks I guess.

Didn't happen in my case either time, and I was sure I had less then 1/4 tank the first time around too and it started fine.

Tank is a pressurized system, so just make sure the locking collar is spun around tight and that the green fuel connector is FULLY snapped in and secure. Sometimes that connector "seems" like it is snapped in there, when it's really not.

If you notice any gas odors from outside of car on passenger side, re-check that metal ring. One time I hit a bad pot hole and mine popped right off. Got a CEL code and then soon after detected the odor and loose filter housing/ring.....

 

when the system is priming, see if you get air off the pressure tap at the end of the fuel rail. It's a thinggy like bicycle tire valve....

Matt

 

Solved. Slight ripple in gasket on top of fuel tank. Whew.