Fuel smell by rear driver side tire
 

I noticed that there is a fuel smell by the rear driver side wheel well. Not puddles that I can see. Fuel filter was replaced in july 2013 about 10k miles ago. Also, my car shut off when I put it in reverse a few times the other day, but hasn't done it again. Tonight however, while I was stopped at a light, the egine shut off, but I put it in neutral and it fired right back up. Any correlation? Anyone got any suggestions?

There is a know problem on that model, the failure of EHA (electro-hydraulic actuator) valve that causes symptoms you have described.

you might check the fuel hoses if any

The EHA is on the engine under the hood. Fuel smell by the drivers side rear of a W201 would be a leaking fuel hose or connection by the pumps as that is where they are located. I would check it ASAP! :eek:

Referring to shut off problem.

Now that I think about it, I was under there cleaning the crud from around my fuel pump not too long ago. I wonder if some of the solvent I used caused a tiny hole in one of the hoses.....but on the same token, I fired up the car end let it run a bit and put my face down by the pump and I could not smell any fuel.

It could be a small leak in one of the fuel lines under the car. I would get the car on ramps and have a look. I had a leak in the same area on my 280E (W123) from the fuel return line. There was no fuel on the ground but the line was wet.

got under the car today and sure enough the plastic fuel pump cover was wet. I removed the cover and inspected the components and it appeared to be leaking from the lower fuel pump copper fitting connection. thee lower fuel pump was wet and the fuel filter, but the top pump and all end connections were dry. the fuel filter connections were dry and I noticed some moisture on the copper fitting by the lower pump where the banjo fitting is located.took the washer off and thought I had another, but it wad the wrong size and thickness. I will see of I can pick one up at home depot or lowes. should only be a few cents

The fuel pumps weep due to age.

Have a look at my photo documentary on replacing:

1. Fuel pumps (2)
2. Fuel filter
3. Fuel accumulator
4. Hangers for assembly
5. 2 main fuel hoses

190E Fuel Pump Replacement - a set on Flickr

Replacing fuel pumps, fuel accumulator and hangers (pics) - Mercedes-Benz Forum

Amazing write up! Thank you! Also, I now know what that clunking sound is in the rear when I am downshifting or coming to a stop.

One other question: What about the fittings on the ends of the rubber hoses? Are those reusable? It almost looks like they are crimped on or something. I have looked at the fuel hoses, but they are all just the rubber hose, even the hose made by Cohline. Or are the ends just snug on the hose where you can pull them off and push them back on?

Yes they are crimped. I got those from the dealer. Bit pricey but if safety is going to be an issue (like in this case), it's definitely worth it to me.

BTW part numbers of the hoses:

201-470-38-75
201-470-46-75