Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Fuel Tank: Notes
As with all modern BMW vehicles, the fuel tank is made from plastic and is installed in the optimum position to achieve the best possible weight balance in the vehicle.
To accommodate these needs, the fuel tanks must be designed in such a way so that there is room for the driveshaft to pass through with out interference.
So, the fuel tanks in the diesel vehicles feature the familiar "double-chamber" configuration. This design feature accommodates two delivery units which are located in the right and left fuel tank halves.
The fuel pump (3) with intake filter (2) is a part of the right-hand delivery unit. The surge chamber including a suction jet pump (10) with pressure relief valve (11) and initial fill valve (1) as well as a lever-type sensor (G) complete this delivery unit.
The suction jet pump (8), lever-type sensor (G), leak prevention valve (7) and air inlet valve (9) belong to the left-hand delivery unit.
A line leads from the filler vent valve (H) to the filter (L). The fuel filler pipe is connected to this line via the non-return valve (K).
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.