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Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG: How to Replace Fuel Filter

A fuel filter can affect the whole performance of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Learn how to replace it yourself here.

By Jerry Perez - June 18, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and E-Class AMG (2002-2009).

The fuel injection system in your Mercedes-Benz E-Class is quite extensive and does more than you and I can think of. Once you position the fuel nozzle in at the gas station, the fuel goes into the fuel tank. Then as you start your car, the fuel gets sent through the fuel lines underneath the car thanks to the pressure created by the fuel pump. That fuel is then purified by the fuel filter located in between the fuel lines. Then fuel is delivered into the engine block and sprayed into the cylinder by the gas valves. At that point fuel is ignited and internal combustion happens. Keep in mind all of this and more takes place in milliseconds. Having a clean fuel filter helps deliver clean fuel to the engine and ensure it's running at top performance. While dirty fuel will adversely clog up certain components that could affect the engine in the short and the long run.

Materials Needed

  • New fuel filter
  • Three 7/16" hose clamps
  • Phillips and flathead screw driver
  • 10mm socket
  • Ratchet wrench and extension
  • Drip pan
  • Floor jack and jack stands

CAUTION

This task could expose you to fuel leaks or vapors. Work in a well-ventilated area and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Step 1 – Turn ignition off

Before commencing any work, make sure the ignition is completely off and the key has been removed from the switch. If the key or ignition are activated, the fuel ignition system could be turned on.

Figure 1. Turn ignition off and fully remove key.

Step 2 – Lift the car

Because the fuel filter is located underneath the car, you must lift the car and secure it with jack stands. Do this only on level ground and then proceed underneath in order to access the work area.

Figure 2. Secure vehicle up with jack stands.
(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Car- Mbworld.org).

Step 3 – Remove fuel filter

The fuel filter is located inside a protective box on the right side underneath the rear passenger seat. Once you locate the box, use the ratchet wrench, extension, and 10mm socket to remove the box cover. Once the fuel filter is exposed, use the screwdrivers to remove the three hose clamps that are attached to the fuel hoses. Once the filter has been freed, unscrew it off its bracket. Make sure to have the drip pan handy as some fuel will spill out of the lines and filter.

  • Figure 3. Remove the protective box.
  • Figure 4. Remove old filter.

Step 4 – Install new filter

Now that the old filter has been removed, you can grab the new filter and mount it on its bracket. Once the filter is mounted you can position the fuel lines back in their places. If your E-Class has reusable hose clamps then install them now, if it doesn't, then use the new clamps that you purchased or that came with the new filter. Once everything is in place and properly tightened, bolt the protective box cover back on.

Figure 4. Reattach filter and hoses to the new filter.

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