Fuel pump and filter change... please help!!
 

Hi All:

I am about to change out the fuel pump and filter on my 01 ML 320... where is the access panel under the seat? Does the seat need to be taken out completely? Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Anthony

Yes the drivers section of the rear seat must come out to get to the pump...

IS the pump or sending unit defective???

There is a strange whine coming from the back of the engine... I guess Im assuming the fuel pump is going bad... the dealer said that was likely the problem as well... does it sound like that to you also? There are no starting problems or anything like that... just a bad whine coming from the back while it is running and the sound does not change if you rev it up... it does it while idling or driving.

Is it necessary to change the fuel filter as well? I seriously think I am going to be trading it in soon so I would like to keep it at a minimal cost... lol.

Thanks for your help!

Anthony

If the fuel filter MODIFICATION hasn't been done OR has been done improperly then that could be the noise...start there

Is changing the fuel filter something I could do myself? Or is it strongly recommended that I take it to the MB shop? Im 300 miles away from the closest one :-)

Thanks...

Anthony

You can do it yourself. The fuel lines will be the hardest part. They have a "quick connect" design and can be a B#@%h to remove if you don't have the special tool. The fuel lines between the fuel filter and pump are pretty crappy and should be replaced once disconnected.

Sorry... that should have read the noise was coming from the back of the vehicle instead of the back of the engine... sounds like it is the fuel filter... thanks guys for all your help!!

Anthony

Thanks for the help! It was the fuel filter that was making the noise. Changed it and works fine. Didnt have to replace the fuel pump thankfully, but could have since I was working right next to it... lol.

Thanks for your help and suggestions!