Fuel Pump Replacement? - BMW Forum

Casey3561 · 05-19-2005, 11:41 AM

My '93 318is started with a little bit of a high-pitched whine/buzz a few weeks ago. I thought it was the fuel filter, as that was due to be replaced, and it was done yesterday. Sound is still there. Now I'm thinking fuel pump. How hard is this to do? I found the pump at Bavauto for $150, but I'm worried about how hard it is to replace it. The Chilton's guide sucks, so I ask here.

Any idea? Do it in driveway easy? Pay the dealer? Was BMW smart enough to put an access panel in so I can get to it?

///M Power · 05-19-2005, 11:46 AM

My mechanic replaced mine fo rme....but i had different symptoms.

My car seemed to lack compllete power and could not get over 2700 rpms. Jumpy back and forth acceleration. Quite embarassing actually.

Casey3561 · 05-19-2005, 11:48 AM

Hmmm... mine accelerates just fine- had it on highway last weekend. Yet, that seems like all it could be.

///M Power · 05-19-2005, 12:20 PM

Weird. My car had major issues. As if it were ready to die. I couldnt get over 35 mph.

aye and my fuel pump was cracked.

93 325i · 05-19-2005, 12:39 PM

fuel pump is a fairly easy DIY, BUT it can also be dangerous. Do it outside if you can for ventalation purposes. Also do it on an almost empty tank..

-Disconnect battery
-Lift up on bottom back seat cushion. Its held in place with tabs, just pull up firmly.
-You should see two circular cutouts- one behind passenger and driver. Lift the flap on the passenger side and undo the four screws.
-Now you should see the fuel pump.
-Unscrew the black circular ring that secures the pump. You should be able to undo it with your hands.. if not gently tap it with a screw driver and mallet in the direction to lossen.
-Release harness from top of pump and release the 2 fuel lines from top. A little gas will pour out so have towels handy.
-Once this is off you can pull up on pump for removal. Have lots of towels handy and a nice big tray to put the pump in. It will be dripping gasoline.
-Now the gas tank will be wide open so you want to get the new one in fairly quickly.
-Installation is reversal of removal. I would get a new gasket ring as well. It's cheap and a wise idea to replace as well.

I did mine in under an hour. Oh yea and make sure you put out your cig before starting..good luck.

Casey3561 · 05-19-2005, 06:16 PM

You mean I'm not supposed to let Dad smoke while we're working on it? :P