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

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 vessel ready.

Catch and dispose of escaping fuel.

Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.

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

Check earth 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 PANELING on left and right
Remove PROPELLER SHAFT
Remove rear right WHEEL ARCH PANEL

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

Fig 1: Identifying Fuel Tank Holder And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: There may be residual amounts of fuel in the fuel tank!
Catch escaping fuel in a suitable collecting vessel.

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

Installation note:

Tightening torque: 16 12 1AZ .

Fig 2: Detaching Fuel Filler Hose

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock the snap fastener (1) and pull off the tank ventilation line.

Detach tank ventilation line from holders (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Tank Ventilation Line Holders And Snap Fastener

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Catch escaping fuel in a suitable collecting vessel.

Unlock fuel delivery line at quick-release fastener (1) and disconnect.

With auxiliary heater:

Release single-ear clip (2) and detach pressure line.

Installation note:

Replace single-ear clip.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Fuel Delivery Line

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

With outer fuel filter:

Unlock fuel delivery line at quick-release fastener (1) and disconnect.

Release single-ear clip (2) and detach pressure reference line.

Installation note:

Replace single-ear clip.

Release snap fastener (3) and pull off return line.

Fig 5: Identifying Quick-Release Fastener And Clip

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

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

Installation note:

Tightening torque: 16 11 2AZ .

Slacken nut (2).

Installation note:

Tightening torque: 16 11 1AZ .

Fig 7: Identifying Fuel Tank Clamping Bands Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: When lowering the component, also pass the fuel tank ventilation line through the opening in the body.

Lower the fuel tank slightly to be able to reach the sensor units.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Fig 8: Identifying Fuel Tank Plug Connection

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Disconnect plug connection (1).

Lower fuel tank.

Fig 9: Identifying Fuel Tank Plug Connection

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

RIGHT SENSOR UNIT (1)
LEFT SENSOR UNIT (2)
Fuel delivery line (3)
Fuel return line, if applicable
Lines for auxiliary heater, if applicable

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