I searched the forum and did not see an answer to this question - since I still have the old filter set up, IF I can find the same to just replace it, is it necessary to do the update? The truck is almost 10 years old and very reliable - of course, I don't yet know if the old style can be purchased somewhere - thanks for your advice.

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Francis E. Abate
Automotive Restoration & Preservation
Sheet metal, trim and upholstery

2000 ml 430 Old Style Fuel Filter sought?

I had the same issue. My old system never failed, but when the time came to change the filter, I went to the dealer to buy the fuel filter to do it myself and the parts guy told me that the filter have changed and that I need to change much more than that as an upgrade. He told me in a low voice that I should go to a SA and ask for a fuel filter change and something else, and not to say that you are aware that a lot of things need to be changed, and he also said, insist that you need a scheduled fuel filter change. So I did through an appointment.

Left the truck at the dealer, and an hour later they called me at work with the "new system issue", and again I told them I don't know anything about this, but my manual says that the fuel filter should be change at this interval and that is why my truck is at the shop. They insisted on a new system for $900. Then a while later they called back and said that they will pay for the parts and I pay for the labor. I told them why should I do that, my system never failed, and I just brought the truck for a fuel filter change and break fluid.

I told them that it is not my problem that MB decided to change this afterwards and I have to pay for it, I already payed for the fuel system when I bought the truck. So finally they went ahead and changed everything they have to change at no charge to me, not even for the fuel filter. They charged me only for the break fluid flush.

It worked for me.

Hope this help.

Rene

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'99 ML320, '00 C280

I am going to attempt to replace my fuel filter. My installed fuel filter part numbers ends with 0501. I think 0201 was the old/original one which is the bigger job requiring new fuel lines. Although I think mine is updated, I had to buy 0701, as now even 0501 is discontinued.

Has anyone out there actually replaced one? If so can you get job done via wheel well as recommended or do you have to go under seat. Supposedly you can change via wheel well but it looks tight. And I am curious how difficult it is as there are 4 hoses. Did anyone do with or without special tool?

THIS IS ANOTHER GOOD ISSUE TO BRING UP IN A CLASS ACTION SUIT.

HOW DO THEY THINK THEY CAN GET AWAY WITH THIS ROBBERY.

A REPORT SHOULD ALSO BE FILED WITH NHTB OR US GOV.

THEY MUST BE FORCED JUST LIKE THE HARMONIC BALLANCER ISSUE:fork_off:

I just replaced/updated my fuel filter two weeks ago. It isn't as difficult as it sounds. You will spend more time removing the seats than actually replacing the fuel filter and lines. You will save yourself a lot of frustration by removing the rear seat. I was able to just "fold" the wheel well to gain access to the filter. It took me about 15-20min. to replace the lines and filter, and about two hours to replace everthing I took apart or took out to gain access to the fuel pump. When you receive the new lines, take a look at the way they "clip" to the nipples/line, when you see how they function, you won't need to waste money on the special tool.
If you just go in with an open mind and don't try to rush the job, you'll be o.k.

About how much did it cost you to get all the parts to do the retrofit and filter change? Another on my list of things to do on the ML.

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Silver Honda Accord, 2006
Silver G500, 2003
Silver SLK-320, 2002
Black ML-320, 2000
Bule Porsche 993 Targa , 1997
Silver Merkur XR4Ti, 1987

Thanks for all the good info guys!

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Francis E. Abate
Automotive Restoration & Preservation
Sheet metal, trim and upholstery

What about a class action on this ???

The old filter should be made available.....