Babukb2

about 3 weekends ago i replaced the fuel filter, and just this past weekend i was poking around under the hood just checking on the fuel filter to ensure no leaks or problems, and i noticed what looked like a few small asphalt pieces on the new fuel filter. Not that long ago i also cleaned the air tube connecting to the turbo, but i also now noticed some sand/gravel on top of the air tube.

my assumption is that this isn't being kicked up from below the car because of the engine cover that covers all of this, and also because of the bottom covers on the car. I'm guessing this is all being forced into the area via the air connector to the front of the engine cover.

wondering if anyone has also noticed something similar and if you are aware of any sort of remedy/mesh/filter for that front air inlet. My car has the mesh vent covers for the engine air filter inlets, but nothing in this middle piece.

psh2018

2015 ML350, bought 1/2018 with 15K miles, currently at 33K

I am surprised by how much sandy grit / debris is all over the engine and compartment. Normal to me would be dust and dirt, not the heavier material I am seeing now. As with Babukb2, I am curious how it gets there. With previous cars (not MB) I always kept everything under the hood clean so this is really different. With the warmer weather I will be getting it cleaned up. Would be curious if other owners experience the same.

peter2772000

I honestly haven't noticed the engine compartment getting any dirtier than any other vehicle I've owned. I pressure-wash all my engine compartments at least twice every summer. It does get dirty rather quickly under there, regardless of which vehicle.