16 11 030 Removing and installing/replacing fuel tank (Diesel)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5, 2012 BMW X5, and 2011 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Recycling

Fuel escapes when fuel lines are detached. Have a suitable collecting container ready.

Catch and dispose of escaping fuel.

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.

IMPORTANT: Ensure adequate ventilation in the place of work!
Avoid skin contact (wear gloves)!
After installation of fuel tank/prior to first engine start-up:

Check ground connection at fuel filler neck to body for continuity. If necessary, clean contact surface between body and fuel filler pipe screw connection.
Fill fuel tank with at least 5 liters of fuel.
Check TRANSFER FUNCTION OF SUCTION JET PUMP .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

DRAW OFF FUEL FROM FUEL TANK
Remove UNDERBODY PANELLING on left and right
Remove propeller shaft. See 26 20 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING FRONT PROPELLER SHAFT AS OF 04/2010 .
Remove rear right WHEEL ARCH TRIM

Release nuts (1) and remove holder (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Fuel Tank Holder And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release hose clamp (1) and detach fuel filler hose in direction of arrow.

Installation:

Tightening torque: 16 12 1AZ .

Fig 2: Detaching Fuel Filler Hose

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock quick-release fastener (1) and detach vent line.

Detach vent line from holders (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Quick-Release Fastener And Vent Line Holder

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Catch escaping fuel in a suitable container.

Release hose clamp (1) and disconnect fuel feed line from fuel filter.

Unlock fuel return line at quick-release fastener (2) and disconnect.

With independent heating:

Release single-ear clip (3) and disconnect pressure line.

Installation:

Replace single-ear clip.

Fig 4: Identifying Fuel Feed Line Hose Clamp, Quick-Release Fastener And Single-Ear Clip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

With SCR specification:

Unlock fuel feed and return lines at quick-release fasteners (1) and disconnect.

Fig 5: Identifying Quick-Release Fasteners

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Secure fuel tank against slipping and falling out.

Heavily support the fuel tank.

Fig 6: Securing Fuel Tank

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on clamping bands on left and right.

Installation:

Tightening torque: 16 11 2AZ .

Slacken nut (2).

Installation:

Tightening torque 16 11 1AZ .

IMPORTANT: Do not lead refuelling vent line through opening in body when lowering.

Fig 7: Identifying Fuel Tank Clamping Bands Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lower fuel tank a little so that sensor units can be reached.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Fig 8: Identifying Fuel Tank Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lower fuel tank.

Fig 9: Identifying Fuel Tank Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The following components must be modified when the fuel tank is replaced:

RIGHT SENSOR UNIT (1)
LEFT SENSOR UNIT (2)
Fuel feed line (3)
Fuel return line
If necessary, lines for independent heating

Fig 10: Identifying Fuel Tank Sensor Unit And Feed Line
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.