So its time of the year to change the tires so I jack up my car on the rear passenger side. I hear a crack! then a mountain of black pellets( probably to filter emission idk) falls off the container underneath the car. Anyone know the fix/cost/problem that will follow?

 

Sounds like you broke your charcoal canister. It is used to store the vapors from the fuel tank. You'll most likely set off your check engine light, and will release fuel vapors. Not sure about driveability problems, but I hear some people do depending on the vehicle. Having that canister broke, could store alot of vapors underneath the car, and could become a fire or even a breathing hazard given the situation.

 

Check the link for the parts you might need.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...93&hg=16&fg=10

Good luck,
Mike

 

Thank you guys. Would it be safe to remove it put back the charcoal and glue it back? I'd rather not pay 250$ for a stupid mistake.

 

Probably easy/cheap enough to get one from a wreckers. Certainly no need to buy new.

 

Glue sounds fine to me. I am not certain if it is part of the pressure test the car does on the fuel system, so it would have to hold pressure if you wanted to just do it once, or give it a shot and you may have to seal it better if there is a CEL.

 

Dumb question but did you look to see where you were jacking up on the car?

 

if you really want to glue it, use the two part industrial epoxy that auto parts stores sell, some are fuel resistant, and have a substantial pressure rating, don't use some chincy super glue, it'll just shatter again.

I as well suggest a used unit out of a wrecked car, just make sure it was hit in the front lol.

 

ok thanks all.

 

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J-B Weld will do the trick. That stuff is amazing.

 

JB weld is an excellent product for an amazing number of repairs. Another option is to go to Ebay and scroll thru what is available. You could subsitute a different cannister as long as you can fit the available space. Many are available for much less than $200.