Urgent notice. 03-06 E55's that were involved in the fuel sender recall are bombs.
 

...just waiting to go off.

If you have a 03-06 E55 that was involved in the fuel level sender recall back in 2008 you still may have a problem.

The recall did not seem to fix the problem and several E55 owners are now reporting that the replacement part is starting to leak. Ours broke this last weekend and literally gas was pouring out from under my car. This is a fire and bomb hazard and had I not noticed this and drove the car on the hwy....I would not be writing this post.

I have reported the condition to the NHTSA and filed a claim.

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/index.cfm

I have called MB USA and started a notice and case file.

I have 4 other E55 owners with the same problem. One has said MB USA denied any assistance in fixing his car because "we completed the recall in 2008 and that was it."

How stupid of MB USA.

Just over 2years and 12,000 miles. The assembly is cracked and fuel is pouring out just sitting there.

http://i950.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/fuelleak.jpg

I had O rings etc replaced as well as my gas tank. Lately after a long drive where car gets really hot I get a fuel smell again outside the car. I need to check this to make sure its not leaking when getting hot due to parts expanding.

How do I remove the rear seat ?

i fixed mine outside the dealer and doubled sealing, cover, etc everything double protection , 1 year and 40k milage without any problem. you have to costumize this issue on your own,

Interesting - Keep us posted, I had the recall done last year and I was hoping I wouldn't have to worry about it again?

Thanks for filing the claim on everyone's behalf!

Got the "fuel smell" last week. It's in the shop right now getting taken care of (along with the supercharger clutch and the fuel pumps). Thank God for the Chrysler warranty... Love the car. . .will never sell the car. . . will only add cars to keep her company. . . but damn, I thought the Germans prided themselves on being ENGINEERING companies, not car manufacturers!

Can you PM me the specifics on your repair. Did they replace the driver side fuel sensor assm? I assume you had the recall completed in 2008?

I need as many E55 owners to report these repeat failures asap so that MB USA will address this problem now before its too late and someone dies in their car.

Mine were covered by extended warranty as well but that wont stop me from putting the heat on MB USA. There is a problem here and someone is going to pay the ultimate price. I dont want that blood on my hands and I want MB to get on the job and fix this issue.

That is how ours started.

52k the recall was performed
61k the seals failed and leaks started again
65k the senders failed/cracked/warped and fuel was pouring out

If you wish to test here is the procedure.

1. Fill the car up.
2. Drive straight home.
3. Park in the driveway.
4. Take rear seat out(pull up on the leading edge of the lower cushion...there are 2 tabs to depress then the seat comes up)
5. 8mm socket and take the drivers side inspection cover off.
6. As you see in my picture there will be a fuel lake around that sender.

Damn... I had the recall performed on my car over a year ago... I didn't have any issues, I took it in to the dealer and they performed the recall after running the vin... I haven't had any issues since, but this is alarming to hear... One thing I can say though, NHTSA is pretty serious and will do everything and then some to make sure this is not a defect... If found to be so, they'll order MBUSA to fix it...

Yes, they do take it seriously. However, it may take years and a few deaths before Mercedes is forced to act. Stay on them and make MBUSA put everything in writing. You will be able to use it at a later date.

Get someone on the phone at NHTSA. Once you get an actual person involved, the process will move much faster. Document, document, document!

Bingo,

Exactly what I'm doing. Holding MB USA feet to the fire. Literally. I'm forcing them to adress my situation and then directing each member to the exact same rep to hammer this situation home. NHTSA will take months if not years to reach a conclusion. I'm pushing both parties...MB USA and NHTSA.

I do not want the blood of blown up E55 owners on my hands. Instead by holding MB feet to the fire there will be a paper trail of prior knowledge if (forbid) the big boom does happen. Its a matter of time folks. Another owner (Fields) has his car in the dealer here in Phoenix right now. His failure was massive just as mine and the happened at the same time. Chance?

If these things start blowing up.....then all hell will break loose.

Our car almost killed me and I take that very serious. Trust me when I say your local dealer or MB USA could care less. YOU need to cover your bases and document every detail.

I really appreciate what your trying to do here but i got to tell you man every one of your post is calling the car a bomb or saying its gonna blow up, and man its hella funny how many times you can call it a bomb and say its gonna blow.....head for the choppa! (arnold swarchenegger voice on) :y

Did you see my picture above?

Do you know what happens when gas is poured on a hot exhaust pipe?

Do you understand where the gas tank is located and where the gas spills over when the above puddle runs over the tank.

If you answered yes to the above questions then you should understand why I say the car could have blown up and how this is going to happen any day if not stopped.

How many have caught fire or blown up?

Ali, How did you seal it? which parts in specific? I have no leak anywhere, but I can smell the car specially when I drive it for long distance and when speeding for a while.

Ex. last night coming from dubai driving the car 180 - 210 km/hr and the tank was close to empty because I wanted to test the car smell with almost empty tank and I could smell it while the car was running when I reached home but I could not locate the smell source if there was really a leak.

Around the pump and sender, I have no leaks but I can still smell the fuel sometimes.

oh - that might explain the gas smell i get or rare rare occassions -- well- i will take a look next time i get the smell.

Ahmed, if u smell it out side, then it is most from the small pipe that lets the air goes out when you fill the tank or when you drive alot and heat makes the gas get heated and evaporate which leads to smell coming from that small house, if it is inside, then thats a diffrent problem and u have to remove the seat, the two black circles, you will find the senders, etc check where the leak is, put double O rings on each edge, tight them well, carbo flexiable gasket on them, cover back the 2 black covers very well. and u r good to go.

Sounds like it could be serious, but with no examples to speak of I am not going to let it ruin my day or complain to high heaven at my local MB dealer. I would think if it was common there would have been a car blown up by now to be honest, but you are doing the right thing pursuing the matter given you have the time.

Thanx a lot ali for your reply, from inside I have no smell but from outside I have some and also sometimes if I opened the windows of the car I can smell it.

Thats exactly the effect of the problem 03RSTT is describing. This needs to be fixed.

Well, I have no leaks or at least traces of the fuel around the pumps or sender unit. It could be something else.

For sure, this car has fuel problem and I am sure most of you do have the same issue either leak or smell.

We don't know until what the problem is !!!!!! I hope someone can find out the problem so that we can give some solutions

well mind doesn't has leak nor smell inside or outside.

happened once when the gas station stupid guy was keep filling it even after the pump stopped couple of times which lead to gas came out from bheind the rear right wheel, which where the release small pipe is there for air to come out or extra gas. lol

i don't think it is a problem, but when gas gey hotter it starts to evaporate in the tank whivh lead to pressure and then its getting out from the air drainage pipe, thats why after long hot driving, there is a smell outside, but no gas dropping, nor it is a flamable concentration.

last night i was parked for nearly an hour talking with a girl in my car and when we both got out the smell of gas was completely overwhelming... especially around the passenger side! I had never had this happen but now know to remove the rear seat and start looking around... it was horrible in all honesty! more of a gas smell than when I go fill up...

Mikey,

I will cut and paste what I said in the other thread.

hmmm, just because it has not happened yet does not mean it will or wont. If and when it does I want to think I made every effort to raise the red flag with other owners, MB USA and NHTSA.

If and when it does happen the world will change for all us 03-06 E55 owners.

Another E55 owner and member on this forum (fields) has his car in Schumi MB in Phoenix right now with the exact same problem. Gas pouring out from under the car and it gave no prior notice. That tow truck driver didnt even want to touch that car it was so bad.

So is my case isolated? Are my actions over the top?

Time will tell.

BTW, I like your sig images.

Sorry to be the guy that comes in out of the blue and pulls the fire alarm. I dont have many posts here because this is my wifes car and its 100% stock. I own a RS6 and several other vehicles and I'm very active with the RS6 group. The circumstances were such that I happened to fill my wifes car up after we came home from vacation and this happened to me. We had been smelling fuel off and on for the last couple of months before this massive failure happened.

If this helps one owner before a fire happens then I have done something.

I do noticed that when ever I over-filled my car I will have a nasty smelling garage in the morning. This only happen when I over-filled the car. If I stop filling the gas right at the first click, no problem.

I had the recall done about a year ago, and then in a follow-up repair visist not too long thereafter, the dealer replace the fuel sending units and a bunch of other fuel system related items. I haven't smelled any fuel fumes since, but yesterday I started getting the "check your fuel cap" warning message and also have both a check engine warning light on as well as the low fuel indicator (even though the tank is full). These were the same indicators as before when I ended up getting major work done on the fuel system.

I plan to pull the engine code tonight and see what's up with that. My car is just about due for it's regularly schedule service "B" at the dealer, so I'll have them sort out the fuel system pressure leak (this is what triggers the false gas cap warning message) when I take it in. Once again, I'm really glad I popped for the extended CPO warranty when I bought my car.

Based on past experience, the fuel smell outside the car will be most pronounced by the filler door on the passenger side if there's a problem. Inside the car, it will just smell like gas. All of these gas fumes are reminding me of my old 1994 BMW 750iL, that was notororious for leaking gas lines at the back of the engine compartment. Lots of those cars actually caught one fire because of the gas dripping on the exhaust manifold. I personally don't think the same level of fire hazard exists with the E55, but having to deal with the leaky fuel system multiple times is not what you expect when you buy a Benz.

Komp55

IMHO it takes only 5 minutes to pull the seat out and open the inspection cover. Fill the car up and check as noted below for piece of mind.

I get the strong gas smell by the drivers side rear wheel. I have not seen actual gas in my driveway or under the car at any times though. It is even worse on very hot days. This might be due to parts expanding. My check engine light has now come on and i occasionally get the "check gas cap" after filling up. This problem is quite annoying, not to mention dangerous

You also noted in the other thread that you only fill the car 3/4.

If you wait till you see the gas on the garage floor its too late. Can you perform the procedure above and check under the seat after filling the car up?

Hi Ali

Even though there is no smell of gas inside or outstide my car, do you think it is worth getting it checked anyway at my next service at the dealers?

If I were you, I would not go to the stealer .. they are really really stealer, specially here in the gulf countries.

Take it to the nearst Bosch services center " central or eastern or western motors (according to your area) "

you will get half the price of spare parts (they have 50% discount) at the same level of dealer work and maybe better in some cases because they are actually under Al Fahim sponsorship whose the MB dealer sponsor :D

i had the same problem> the part was changed in 2008, failed 18months later, my warranty was up and they refused to do anything because it was changed. ended up buying the replacement for 550 and doing it myself. thanks for the link. i filed a complaint as well. hopefully MBUSA gives me my damn 550 back

You are #6 from just this forum with the same failure.

PM sent. I would like you to call the same field rep that I'm dealing with at MB USA. So far 4 of us are calling her with the exact same story.

By chance? I dont think so.

MB USA you have a problem and it leaves us the owners holding the bomb literally.

very slight leak...recall done and pump changed 8k ago no problem since.:y

:popcorn:

Picked up the car tonight. MB Chandler did a fine job with the car and proactively replaced both fuel level sensors. My wife didnt want to drive her car home (40mi) so I drove it and she followed in the LX470.

Still love the E55 and the way it drives. I hope we can fix this problem and keep this car but can I tell you guys something?

My RS6 is way faster than the E55.

:smash:

Some humor on a thur nite.

Hmmm,

Problems all over the place. Another owner that has gone thru two sending unit assemblies.

Nothing to see here folks. Yep

http://www.justanswer.com/questions/...mp-overheating

My car had the same issue, Recall performed. Six months ago fuel smell, pools of fuel in the sender basket, Thanks to the Chrysler Extended warranty the ~$1000 repair is paid for.

Ours was covered by extended warranty as well.

But, what does that say about the "fix" and how do you feel about fuel leaking above hot exhaust pipes?

We have had to pay two extended warranty deductables and a 265 dollar tow that I got knocked down to 165 dollars for the problem. No help or communication back from MB USA

Clearly there is an unresolved problem with the design. The next owner may not be so lucky and escape. How should we all fell about that? How will you feel if a burning E55 is on CNN tomorrow?

I have notified this forum. I have called NHTSA and reported a full case. I have called MB USA and advised them of a serious problem. I have called and emailed the local Phoenix news stations.

This is the best I can do. If all these folks choose not to deal with the problem and a burning E55 ends up on CNN. It will not be pretty. I could care less about a few hundred dollars. A safety issue gone unresolved has my attention. This E55 was our first MB. My wife has drove Lexus (SC400,LS400,LX470) for 15 years. If this is how AMG customers are treated....good luck folks. There will be no SL63 or Eclass convert in our future. If and when my RS6 needs serious attention I have the direct line to the RS6 master engineer in MI. Its not rocket science. Educated owners will spread the news good or bad.

My first post as a new member and owner of a E55.

I too have a leaking seal on the fuel level sender as shown on the photos posted.

Thanks to the forum and quality posts (like this) I have an opportunity to keep my family safe by repairing this safety issue. I work in the aviation profession and we have zero tolerance for items we call "safety of flight"; this is one of those type items for all owners.

Pay heed to this...check it yourself then go to the dealer and get it fixed. No amount of money or "I am deeply sorry for your loss" will bring back a loved one or put skin and hair on your son, daughter or wife...much less each of us!

I sincerely appreciate this post and the concern and care given to each of the members to ensure our safety.

Bingo.

Exactly why I did what I did.

My car had the recall service completed and the seal leaked a year and half later. The seal was replaced under warranty again. The dealer blamed it on a bad installation.

Just as Bonai Kid noted above.

"Pay heed to this...check it yourself then go to the dealer and get it fixed. No amount of money or "I am deeply sorry for your loss" will bring back a loved one or put skin and hair on your son, daughter or wife...much less each of us!"

Do you think anyone else cares about you and your family safety? I mean really cares enough to do something?

Our car has the recall completed at 52k miles. We started smelling gas on fill ups around 60k and finally found another leak at 61k. The seals on the component were changed at 61k. Dealer said the same thing you were told...its fine and these things happen. Dont worry.

Then at 65k without no notice all hell broke loose and we had gas pouring out from the sending unit pictured. 3k miles after I was told "its fine dont worry about it"

Sound like anything you were told?

Update on the Leaking Fuel Filter Assy.
 

Ok guys...here is another leaking Fuel Filter Assy.. Notice the dark fuel sludge...this condition is very serious. I am not a smoker but if I was or if I had passengers enter the vehicle this afternoon after having it sit in the sun with a full tank there were such heavy fumes one might be concerned about ignition from spark or cigarrette.

Please take heed. If you smell gas...check it. It takes only minutes. The quality of the maintenance access seal and the torque on the bolts on the panel can mask the seriousness of the leak and the amount of fuel that has leaked. The gas clearly has seaped during the day out the bottom of the maintenance panel and soaked the insulation bad to the point that the black plastic on the seat cushion side is now gummy and ruined.

This is serious. See photos.

Bonai Kid,

As I noted above. Bingo we have another winner.

What is the old saying?

Bada bing
Bada bang
Bada BOOM

Tick, tick, tick....do you MB owners with E55s have car bombs too? I think its time for legal help in this matter.

Holy smokes!!!! I need to check my car. Had my recall done last year. THANKS FOR THE THREAD AND POSTS!!!

The time needed to repeat the leak seems to run between 14-18 months.

Follow the procedure to check the seal.

If you wish to test here is the procedure.

1. Fill the car up.
2. Drive straight home.
3. Park in the driveway.
4. Take rear seat out(pull up on the leading edge of the lower cushion...there are 2 tabs to depress then the seat comes up)
5. 8mm socket and take the drivers side inspection cover off.
6. As you see in my picture there will be a fuel lake around that sender.

BTW

I do have a theory as to why this is happening. I will inspect my old parts and work on that theory. Lets just say a design change to the fuel system that was mandated by the EPA is behind the problem. Not saying the EPA caused the leak but the EPA mandate caused a design change in the fuel delivery on these engines. And the result was and is a piss poor design.

And then what's the next step?

Like I said previously, I have the gas smell only when I try to overfill the car. If I stop when the pump stop, no smell. And the smell is only from the outside. You cannot smell the gas inside the car.

I did take the seat out and inspected the areas. Driver side do have a darken plastic symptom but not on the passenger side. So I guess my car do have a problem. I will try not to fill the car all the way up and see what happen. Hopefully we will have a solution soon. I also re-tighten the basket and it did have a little more room to go.

Filled my car up yesterday and popped the back seat out to only realize my worst fear.... i can actually see the fuel actively leaking out and forming the pool around the unit.... I soaked about 3 towels of gas before hitting the road to drive in order to burn some gas. I has the seals replaced on both the pump and filter module about 3 months ago but this obviously didnt help. The gas is leaking out from under the black plastic ring that screws down on top of the unit. Is there a way i could use some type of seal between here? Im really frustrated with this problem. All help is much appreciated.

Thanks,

PM sent. Call me asap

MB USA.....can you hear us yet?

Houston, we have a problem.

Wake up people.

Send me a PM. We can talk offline. You have the problem.

Not to sidetrack your campaign to save us from ourselves (actually, our cars), but when Motor Trend magazine did a comparo between the performance of the RS6 and the E55, their results don't support your statement:

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...ecs_price.html

I wondered how long before someone noticed.

This is my wifes car and I normally dont drive it but this situation left me in the driver seat for a few days. I posted up on another thread that our E55 may have the IC pump failure and that could account for the lack of straight line performance. So, I'm now looking into the situation on our E55 and logging some IAT readings. Will report the results.

Both cars are great cars and I love to drive the E55 from time to time. But, the RS6 runs circles around the E in almost every class of performance driving feel around a road course. That fact remains, the RS6 is a road course driving monster for such a large vehicle. Check the nurburgring lap times.

I have seen RS6 lap times of 8:17sec and E55 lap times of 8:50sec. So I can stop at the finish line and pop a cold one and just about have it finished by the time the E gets there. j/k

You may want to post this info in the W211 E-Class section as well. If I recall correctly, I remember reading a couple of posts about a couple of E350/550 having similar problems.

That's right, it's not just AMGs. The issue has appeared in E320s, E350s, and E500s, etc.. http://www.mercedesforum.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=42126
(in the last post, there's mention of replacing the entire tank as the only real solution(?)

I have a BMW E46 and this very same issue was a problem in the E36s.
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum....php?t=1145545

http://edu.cqdx.gov.cn/bmw/134427.html

It's also happened in Nissans, Subarus, and some Fords. Strange. Sending units seem to be an issue for some cars. And all of these are located at the top of the tank in the back seat. Gas puddling, smells in the rear of the cabin under the seat.

I don't want to downplay this at all, but if there is any consolation no car (BMW or Mercedes or any other other) has caught fire yet. Again, I'm not saying that to imply it's not a safety issue and not to "reassure" anybody.

I hate to say it, but it's kind of too bad because if they were burning up, then this would have been resolved pretty quickly by all manufacturers, that's for sure.

The focus of this thread is directed to 03-06 E55 vehicles.
 

Guys,

I appreciate the concern for the other models. However, I wish to keep this thread directed to the 2003-2006 E55 vehicles involved in campaign #2008-020001. Please keep the responses directed to this topic and focus. The thread is in the right section and needs to focus on specifics and details. I can understand if E500s are having the exact same problem but I dont know if all of them had the recall or if the level sensor assm is the same part number. If a Subaru xyzabc has abc problem and whatever else comes up...it takes away from the attention here and now.

We are talking about approx 4200 E55 vehicles total. MB USA needs to pay attention to these owners reporting the exact same repeat failure.

If any of you wish to cross post this thread into Eclass forums that is fine. E320, 500 ect owners can start their own research into the matter. I dont know if the part numbers are the same, I dont know if the problems are the same. I dont know or have one of the vehicles to verify. They may very well have the same problem. If any of you have the time or interest then take our info over there in new threads. Actually, this may be a good idea and we should offer a lending hand to those folks.

I do have a E55 sitting out in our garage that is a lethal bomb. I can verify as can several other E55 owners. Past those facts lie the mine ridden fields of supposition. I dont have the evidence to solve all the worlds issues but the E55 issue is real and I have proof.

Searched for the last few days, could not find one E55 that caught fire or blew up. :nix:

We do have the potential for fuel leaks, yes they can present a hazardous condition. If you smell gas inside your car, it would be advisable to not start or drive it until you or a qualified person check it out. One other thing I would like to say, never top off the fuel tank in any Mercedes Benz, first time it clicks off, call it good.

It is my understanding the "up date" / "recall" was nothing more than a steel insert in the fuel barb to prevent the barb from cracking, due to the pressure of the crimped hose clamp on the fuel line.

FWIW my sender was not replaced during the recall.

The repeat failures and swimming pools of gas are a clear concern of a problem. Not just one...two....three...we are talking several.

You may or may not smell gas in the car. Has little to do with any true diagnosis. IMHO

I never top off any fuel tank. I doubt many E55 owners sit there and dribble every last drop of fuel in their tanks either.

The only real way to ensure the safety of each and every one of you is to perform my fuel level sender assembly check outlined in this thread. And, that will only say the sender is not leaking today. It could let loose tomorrow and have gas flooding out under the car.

What happens to the owner that fills up on the hwy on his/her way from a trip? What if it starts leaking while driving down the hwy?

I will let you all answer that question.

4200 E55 AMGs. Not one has burned down yet but we are early in the game.

I cross-posted the thread in the W211 E-Class as well. I'm pretty sure they share those components with our cars. Hopefully some of them will chime in and confirm. If the problem does affect the regular E-Classes as well, then Mercedes may face a much bigger problem because they've sold over one million W211 E-Classes since 2003 :eek:

MB USA has denied any assistance in looking into the fuel leak matter.

MB USA has denied any further claim on fuel level sending units that have repeat failures.

MB USA has denied to even consider paying a 50 dollar deductable and 164 dollar tow charge to a CPO AMG owner with repeat failures and gas leaks.

Yet MB USA spends millions on the ad campaign to tout the safety of the E class.

Brilliant. See you in court.

Now,

How many of you would like to go down and buy another MB AMG product?

Had same problem
 

I had the recall done in 2008 as well and a year and a half later I started smelling gas inside my car each time I filled up the tank. I ignored it in the beginning but after a while I got the check engine light on. I was sure it was related to the gas smell so I took my car to the dealer for inspection, and they said the fuel sending unit had needed to be replaced completely for a cost of 1200 plus labor (unfortunately I did not buy the extended warranty).
I know a car mechanic in my neighborhood who deals with quite a lot of high end cars and charges less than a third of what the stealer does, so right away i picked up my car, bought an O-ring for fuel sending unit from the dealer's parts store (thanks to the research I did in this forum), and had it replaced by the local mechanic I know for $50. Ever since, no more leaks for now, but I do think this is a temporary solution and it may start leaking again after the fuel cap or its O-ring starts melting again from overheating like one other member mentioned here. This must be a design flaw with the car and definitely needs to be taken seriously before someone ends up loosing his/her life.

I find it funny how some on this forum call my thread and detailed information a "blind paranoid rant".

I will counter with my own quote. "be careful with blind suppositions, you could end up holding the bomb"

SamE55....I will send you a PM. MB will regret the day they refused to help E55 owners.

A couple of ideas.

I inspected the hornets nest of lines, hoses and wires in the fuel pump/sending/fuel pressure regulator/fuel level and fuel filter assembly. What a rats nest of a cobble job. Thanks EPA for the mandate to eliminate the fuel return line. That is why this design was developed and its a POS.

BTW, my 2003 Audi RS6 has none of this crap. The standard fuel design was retained and the fuel pressure regulator is up on the fuel rail as it should be.

The EPA mandate was for 2005 but MB put this design in early. Any wonder why the design changed in 07?

Ok,

There is some hope for the E55. I had the chance to data log the IATs tonight.

Bingo. 175 degrees just driving down the road at 40mph(outside temp 82)

A single run from 40-65 and the IAT jumps to 195 degrees.

Intercooler pump is dead.

That is the reason the car is a pooch. I will get this fixed next week.

Does anybody know of a single vehicle that has suffered catastrophic damage from this small fuel leak?

The campaign on the E55 sending unit involved inspecting it for cracks, if a crack was present in the plastic a new sending unit was installed. If no crack was present, a modified metal sleeve was installed to reinforce it. Most of the time, the plastic broke when attempting to replace the sleeve so a new sender was installed.

The main sources of fuel gathering around that left sending unit bowl are. 1: leak at the fuel tank pressure sensor 2: leak where the vent line to charcoal canister is molded into the top of the fuel tank. This is why the car will smell of raw gasoline after completely filling it. The gas will run out of that vent and collect around the left sending unit. You can not see the vent unless the fuel tank is removed from the car.

I don't think the exhaust back there is hot enough to ignite it. And 99% of the gas will just sit in that bowl. Sending unit seals do not leak that often, and can even split when torqueing the caps down. Been there, done this.

That pretty much parallels the info I received from the MBCA and probably why the OP has had the responses he has had from MBUSA.
https://mbworld.org/forums/4218540-post19.html

The consensus seems to be that the issue is exacerbated by the dealer's approach/response to the problem, in addition to MBUSA's method of initiating and following through with the voluntary recall (i.e., not directing dealers how to effectively fix the issue.)

To answer your question, there has been no catastrophic damage reported. In addition the NHTSA has decided that this is not a safety hazard (right or wrong, that was their decision.)

It's quite possible that the OP's personal fuel leak issue has been aggravated by his specific dealer's handling of the fix. i.e., that his repair was not dealt with correctly by the dealer and even making it worse. I'd venture to guess that this is perhaps the bigger issue. Although the design and repair protocol is itself problematic, the dealers attempt to resolve the issue can compound the problem.

I'm not condoning MBUSA washing its hands of the issue and blaming the dealer, but that seems to be where it stands at the moment. And that's where MBUSA is in the wrong. The NHTSA has approved the voluntary recall and sees this as no safety issue. MBUSA should step up to the plate and recognize that the recall is not being fulfilled properly.

I have just about had it with your suppositions. No evidence to support your claims and quick to give the MB design a pass.

Why do you even care? You dont own one of these bombs?

How can you make the determination that the dealers are causing these repeated failures? You have no proof. None. Nada. Zero.

[quote=csumt76;4224137]Does anybody know of a single vehicle that has suffered catastrophic damage from this small fuel leak? Your point is what?

The campaign on the E55 sending unit involved inspecting it for cracks, if a crack was present in the plastic a new sending unit was installed. If no crack was present, a modified metal sleeve was installed to reinforce it. Most of the time, the plastic broke when attempting to replace the sleeve so a new sender was installed.

The main sources of fuel gathering around that left sending unit bowl are. 1: leak at the fuel tank pressure sensor 2: leak where the vent line to charcoal canister is molded into the top of the fuel tank. Wrong and wrong. sorry try again. This is why the car will smell of raw gasoline after completely filling it. Wrong againThe gas will run out of that vent and collect around the left sending unit. You can not see the vent unless the fuel tank is removed from the car.

I don't think the exhaust back there is hot enough to ignite it. Your kidding right? 99% of the gas will sit there? Thats why I had gas puddles under the car. Thats why my lower splash shield was full of gas and gas was spilling over it and on the ground. You really think the exhaust pipes on a E55 dont get hot? Get a grip folks. And 99% of the gas will just sit in that bowl. Sending unit seals do not leak that often, and can even split when torqueing the caps down. Been there, done this. Hmmm, mine have leaked on both sides 2 times over the course of 2 years[/quote]

I'm not sure why we can't have a dialogue about this instead of being shut down because it doesn't fit your world view.

And isn't that what you're angry at MBUSA about: allowing no dialogue and discussion about the matter?

Anyway, it's your thread. I hope something positive and constructive can come out of it all in the end, and you get the issue resolved.

Good luck.

You keep wanting to shift the blame to the dealer level. There is no evidence to support this claim. This is a MB design issue and the component has failed over and over and over again. The dealers all over the country cannot be making the same mistake over and over and over again. The new parts seal for a year or two but the cars in hot climates fail over and over and over again.

I'm trying to alert everyone to the potential of a hazard. Those that have found the exact same problem understand how serious this is.

I really dont care why the fuel level sensor was "supposed" to be changed. I have reality and so do many many other owners.

In the end our car is fixed for now and I hope MB gets the class action suit. The actions by MB have made it crystal clear we will never own a MB again.

What year is it again?
oh yes 2010...and pretty much getting into 2011, and yet I have not heard of ''The great E apocalypse of Exploding death''!!!
So what's that nearly 8 years?
Some of them have been in seriously hot countries and no kaboom!

Not that I do not feel for your issue & the others that are facing it & wish it to be resolved :). I also do believe that the people who are getting the issue again after it getting fixed, did not get it done right :nix:

I will try and help with getting some info on what gets done here from this side of the globe

This has happened to me the last two fillups! my whole garage smelled like fuel. i thought i must have just over filled the tank too much at the station. now I'm freaked out.

I tend to agree. If this was such a major problem, wouldn't there have been at least ONE report of a fire or explosion?

I've never smelled any gas.

We are talking about 4200 cars between 03-06 and in hot climates. The repeat failures are spaced apart by sometimes over a year or two years. You want to tell me these repeat failures are due to dealer level poor workmanship?

Bunk

I can only see my fuel leak and others with similar problems to understand that these things are ticking time bombs.

Past that I make no suppositions. I have facts and evidence of repeated fuel leaks in hot climates. Some leaks are severe and present a hazard. The repeated leaks happen 1 to 2 years after "updated" parts were installed.

Can I be any clearer?

Who knows why these leaks are taking a couple years to surface. I only know they are there.

I can not help my self, the constant bomb alert reciting is causing me to gigle sorry :p:, I have yet to see a post without bomb in it :)

You talk of facts, well facts are as follows:

1. Non have gone kaboom in the 7-8 years of production/usage
2. Non have gone Kaboom in one of the hotest countries on earth (might want to look up where I live & we have alot of benzs)

As for how they fix them over here, am told its as follows:
''The factory fix for the leak is the sleeve at the ventilation pipe''

and your fix is simple replace ''bomb'' with ''Torq'' and you will be on your marry way :D
p.s yes i know its ''torque'' , but had to make it fit the 4 letters of doom :p

No more taking the piss from my side though am all torqued out !

Take care and mind those nasty German AMG cars!!!
Am told they pack quite the punch...in a non lethal way :D

O3RSTT- I know what you are all about. I have seen your posts under your other names in the Audi and Lexus forums. You seem to be a lonely older man who fuels on stirring up a car community. You do a lot of talking to yourself until some newbie decides to agree with you. There is no potential bomb going on with these fuel leaks, they are just annoying at most. It is time for you to complain about a different car on a different forum imo. This issue has come up a long time ago and is now dead. Sell your E if MB is so crappy and enjoy your Audi that you have to import all your parts for. Lol.

Bingo!

+1 snail something is fishy with this guy

This thread is starting to become a nuisance with all these claims of our cars being bombs and bad quality. The fact is you cannot say they are bombs if a) they are not literally lol b) none have blown up ever! Also, on your production #'s there were 7000+ built between 03-06'.

You can't say bomb on an airplane :rolf:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ25xMRHtj4

haha :rolf: :rolf: :rolf:

You May or May Not Have This Issue...but, soon maybe!
 

I have made every effort to not be baited to respond to some of the comments recently made about a situation some MB E55 owners are having but the truth of the matter is this:

1) This installation has design issues and a recall was conducted to solve it.
2) Some of the recall installations are failing and causing gas to leak out causing gas fumes and gasoline to enter the rear cabin area and drip beneath the car.
3) Depending on the severity of the leak the leaking gas could run to the hot exhaust pipe or fumes become combustible should someone light a cigarette, etc.
4) Damage to the car can result even if no fire occurs (in my case the insulation pad and seat cushion will require replacement due to both being soaked with gas.

Now whether you agree with the style in which a forum member has communicated this information is not the main issue...and we should stay focused on "keeping the main thing the main thing", there is a problem and like many of forum posts this information is important and was key in ensuring that I did not place my family or personal safety at risk....for this I am thankful.:y

No wise person would knowingly put their child, wife or anyone for that matter in a rear seat that has gas soaked cushions or pooled gas sitting beneath them...for this I am thankful for the information.

Lets maintain the innocence and value of what this forum brings to so many...knowledge, experience and from time to time a chuckle or two.:y

I have had to wait 7 days to get my car in the shop (our local MB service center was slammed last week) to correct this issue and I will be glad to get this behind me so I can continue to enjoy my wonderful car.

Thanks MBWorld for having a forum such as this to keep everyone in connection with experiences and knowledge...I don't personnally have to have a bad experience to benefit from it...I can learn from others experience.

Funny that you have nothing but personal attacks and stfu comments. What benefit are your posts? Clearly there are additional owners that have found a serious situation on their E55 as a result of this thread but you have your own personal stfu agenda. right? Got it. You have your E forum.

Actually that's not the case (my "wanting to shift the blame to the dealer level.") I'm not wanting to do anything but have a sensible dialogue about the issue. And why do I care? Does the E63 have the "redesigned" sending unit, too? Is it going to leak eventually? Perhaps. In addition, I have relatives and friends who own pre-FL E Class cars. I'm concerned too, when issues like this appear.

That you've "had it with my suppositions" is a bit myopic. The fact of the matter is that if you search here and on all the other MB forums, people have had the issue addressed by the dealer in a multitude of ways: from replacing the unit, replacing the unit and filter, only replacing the filter, not replacing the unit and only replacing the gasket, replacing the fuel tank and not the unit, replacing the unit and the fuel tank and the gasket, and some (not responding to the recall) even did their own homemade version of a fix.

In addition, the MBCA mentioned that dealers may not have responded properly to the recall. Also the NHTSA (for some reason, right or wrong) has not recognized this as a safety issue and instead it was a voluntary recall. And MBUSA does not and will not release numbers and info about the repairs, which is unfortunate. So we don't have the complete facts here.

As Bonai Kid says, this should be about dialogue. It is much more constructive, imho, if we could approach all the angles and discuss it like mature adults. Despite if some of the info and/or opinions run contrary to your views about the issue.

I sincerely understand your frustration, but acting like Chicken Little can sometimes alienate people. Just a few months ago on RS6.com you said: "I'm done with Audi. I will call BMW and Benz to confirm their support status and they get my business. Period end of story." And a few years ago you said you will never own another Lexus. Sure we all get frustrated with the way car companies are run, it's understandable. But simply being reactionary has a history of not solving anything. I'm happy that you haven't ever had to deal with PCNA and Porsche's failing IMS and RMS issues. Talk about a company telling you to go f**k yourself; that's when PCNA showed its true colors.

And (unfortunately) MBUSA isn't listening anyway, so it's not doing them any harm.

You said, "see you in court" and that you've notified your local news station. So, hopefully you'll post here as to the progress on that end. Maybe you'll get somewhere with it. In the meantime people will post their experiences and we can start seeing if a pattern develops and get some numbers. But it's simply a car forum and not the best place to get true stats on what's going on. MBUSA has that info, which we can't see until somebody makes them divulge it. Maybe you can with your legal action.

Chicken little? Taking Audi comments out of context? Please get a life.

I used strong language but provided other owners a clear process to make educated decisions and check their cars before any potential harm. Several E55 owners found a potential hazardous situation and can make proper repairs. What have you done?

I understand many folks dont wish to hear the bad news about their car and the language may seem harsh but if you have this problem its another story.

So I will leave the thread to serve as a resourse and stop the bomb threats.

Can someone confirm whether the E63s are susceptible to this as well. I was talking to a friend of mine with an 08 E63 and he was telling me he just had a fuel leak as well and took it to the dealership for repair :nix:

:popcorn:

Tell me the part number number for the w211 amg and I can check it and see if it is the same for the 63, thx.

Mikey, according to epc.net:

Two sending/filter/pump units:

A211 470 4994
A211 470 4594

Seals:

A211 417 0579

One is the "new" unit, but sorry I don't know which number.

My service manager only said that the E63 had the "re-designed" part. He also said under the recall that at first they were only replacing the seal if the unit showed no cracking, but then replacing the whole unit and filter if it leaked again.

Perhaps the OP (or somebody else who had the recall done) can scan in their work order.

Stirring up debate/MB owners is irrelevant imho. Regardless if there has been a fire yet or not, there is simply no denying that this is a dangerous issue. Would it only be appropriate to discuss this issue if someone had been seriously injured/killed? I would hope not...

Please, stick to the issue at hand. Show me a class action and I'll sign on the dotted line.

Thanks 220S. I will check it out and report back.

Seems like it's affecting other models as well :nix:

i cant f***ing believe it!!!

Yeah, as I mentioned before in another post, it's not confined to AMGs. It's an issue with any model that has the original part number including E Class cars.

I did get a reply back from MBUSA that was interesting. But I feel better in respect to how to deal with it now. I'm going to stop in at the dealership after lunch and get some parts numbers to compare.

Can you please PM me the information as well :y

I know that none of the MB had blown up yet, but you can't be serious if you think the car wreak with gasonline smell is normal. I'm glad I found this thread and checked my car. I'm paying very close attention to the problem. So far I've been able to fix my problem by re-tighten the "basket" and stop over-fill the car.

Sending units for E55

211 470 17 94...pass side with fuel pumps/filters
211 470 51 94...drivers side with level sensor, fpr and hoses

Seal rings are the same

211 471 05 79

Clearly paranoia.

https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...g-believe.html

:popcorn:

Ferrari acknowledged a fire hazard issue today.
 

I think MB should follow suit with this issue as it has the same potential risks:


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11156782

My e55 is the "bomb".............I just don't want it to blow up.:p:

Mikey, MBUSA gave me the correct part numbers for the latest (W211) E63s. The part numbers I posted earlier (45 and 49) are not for the latest units. Seals are the same on all units.

And the very latest (E63) ones are different than the part numbers that 03RSTT posted a few posts above.

Mo, I sent you a pm.



I hope we can all discuss this issue rationally so we could at least maybe get some things figured out. It's fine to post warnings and keep everybody on their toes. And if people want to call the local news stations and contact lawyers, then more power to them. But in the meantime, let's also try to have a reasonable dialogue about it.

As a warning to other owners I wanted the local news to run a story. Still in the backlog of emails. As a cover my own butt action I spread the news around with friends, family and neighbors. If we go up, you all know where to point the gun. I also tried to reason with MB USA and make every attempt to show and help them with this problem. MB USA could care less about the problem or the owners. Who knows it may be the current corp car culture in this country. I have no idea. Audi tells its RS6 owners they were lucky the parts were avail for 7 years and you have to pay shipping from Germany on future parts.

If it helps anyone. I have the old fuel level sensor and fuel pump/housing assembly. If you want any pictures or have any questions about the parts. Fire away. If we keep the car I plan to dig into the design and bypass the entire back ass design to run the fuel pressure regulator in the gas tank. The fuel pressure regulator needs to be on the fuel rail at the engine not in the friggin gas tank. Thanks EPA

Car goes in again tomorrow for the intercooler coolant pump. Another trip into the dealer. 4k miles on the car this year and 4 trips to the dealer.

Wow...big problem to watch for for would-be W211 E55 buyers. Thanks for the heads-up, and dedication to resolving the issue.

:popcorn:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DfOEBjGg8c

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_gNp...layer_embedded

That fire prompted a recall in the summer of 2007 for CLs. The ABC high pressure hose would corrode internally (from high humidity like in Virginia where that occurred.) The hydraulic fluid would then leak onto the cat and other hot components and lead to a fire.

The recall began July 2007 (when that video was made) and the "fix" was to replace the factory hose with a corrosion resistant one.

Not sure how many CLs ever burned up, but this one was enough obviously.

Since the EPA mandated returnless fuel systems in 2004, it looks like we're stuck with them. Can a ERF system in a MB really be changed over to a return line system? I'm curious. Since OBDII monitors EVAP, what happens when the EVAP releases more emissions and the ECU senses it and sends out codes? Or can that be dealt with simply by having the right filter and regulator, etc., all working, if it's outside the tank? What about the tank heating, etc.. and possible emissions release?

What's interesting is that Chrysler went all ERF back in '98. Maybe MB simply took the design, made it fit, and just tossed all that crap down into the tank? LOL.

Other than being able to regulate pressure with a return line system, what's the advantage of not staying ERF? Depending on the injectors and the pressure, it can handle enough hp. It seems the deal here is simply the design of the sender units. I haven't pulled mine (E63) yet, but the part numbers are different. It seems that the 'answer' would be to make sure the units don't leak by figuring out better sealing(?)

As I mentioned before, the E36 BMWs were returnless. And they had the exact same issues with leaking (under the rear seat, etc..) The big thing was always to NOT overfill the tank. I think the units (there were two just like in the E55s) were also VDO, iirc. They look close in appearance (see the pics, first one is MB, second is BMW.) A bad design that was changed later.

Another thing is that since this is theoretically part of the emissions system it all really should be warrantied for the 80k or whatever emissions system stuff is warrantied for..... I'd b*tch about that.

There is a thread here showing a high hp E55 owner that did just that. Let me search for it again.

I would think there is a point where fuel volume would begin to decrease with high demands from the engine say at high speeds. That is why the above owner went with the new fuel feed and return line. The ERF may work in a 120hp Toyota Corolla but trying to feed a 500hp monster is just plain crazy. The constant pressure needed to maintain line pressure all the way up the engine must create a huge stress on all the components.

Do these Jeeps with the gas tank fires have the ERF? If Chrysler went ERF in 98, did the Viper have a fuel return line?

The main advantage of a return line system is the lack of stress on all the line components. Fuel can flow free without running into a brick wall and the pressure regulator at the engine keeps the fuel flowing at a constant pressure. Thus the injectors can each take what they need and as boost increases the fuel pressure regulator can quickly raise that line pressure and fuel keeps flowing thru.

I would venture to guess that every race car in most every racing situation still uses the same design. Return line system and fuel pressure regulator at the engine.

If the units are warping leading to the gasket failure? What can be done? A owner here says he used 2 gaskets? I would like to see how two can be fit in there. I inspected the old parts and both level sensors/fuel pump baskets. Made in Germany.

It's absolutely true that there's no performance advantage of returnless since it's only about emissions mandates. Plus a return system is much cheaper to install and maintain, tune, and more reliable, etc..

But maybe the cheaper to install part is only if you're starting from scratch, imho. If you aren't then maybe it would make more sense to rebuild the returnless with better components(?) High pressure can be maintained using larger lb/hr injectors, high flow rails, programmable FMUs, etc.. There's a lot of really good stuff out on the market now for returnless systems (since we're kinda stuck with them now.) I'd like to see pics of a MB that's reverted back to a return. Where do you put the pump, regulator, etc., and keep fuel cool, etc.. But it seems all this is only to address a leaking in tank sending unit. That's really the only weak spot, right?

Modern performance cars have to comply and still have power, it's all a matter of cost. The E55 and with its system was in the game early during the mandate period and so, like you've said before, they no doubt whipped together the pump/regulator/filter unit in a rush.

fwiw, a lot of high performance cars use competition returnless systems that can handle upwards of 1200 hp. The Cobra and Viper owners seem to be changing out stock components to better ones to handle boost (but remaining returnless.) Higher pressure rails and bigger injectors can eliminate any pressure loss that might happen esp at higher rpms, equal pressure to all injectors, etc..

In the end, it's all about the money. How much does one want and need to spend. In the case of the E55, the OEM system seems to work under high pressure and seems to be able to handle the boost. Although it would interesting to track any pressure drops at higher rpms or if any A/F issues are happening(?) since returnless is so sensitive to pressure changes.

But again, I personally wouldn't rip it all out but instead maybe try to go for better components (if available and will fit.) Plus there's the issues of violating emissions with a conversion, and the dealer not wanting to ever touch the car, etc..

With these stock systems just check pressure at the rail (is it really holding pressure at rpm?) and use Techron (since it's a dead end system and contaminants can be an issue.) And somehow deal with those sending units so they don't leak. I think that's about all one can really do(?) I suppose the only "positive" thing is they built it so you don't have to drop the tank to fix anything, except instead you get leakage in that access space. Maybe just completely seal it off and hope the pump units themselves never fail.

The E55 was an earlier endeavor that was caught in between a time of new EPA mandates. It was an existing MB motor with a SC attached. Now that AMG is building their own motors, these issues should be behind us. The new 5.5 TT will have a returnless system that will be built for appropriate high pressure, plus hopefully Renntech/Kleemann, etc., will develop aftermarket components (rails, injectors, etc..) Although I know that doesn't help current E55 owners right now.

To close the book on the intercooler pump failure. Funny story actually. I called the MB dealer in Phoenix...talked to parts first. They dont stock the intercooler pump. "we hardly replace those" I asked if any of the other Phx dealers stock it. "nope" Then talked to my SA and told him the story and my data logs with 195 degree IAT temps. He said ok and would get the part ordered to save a trip.

They check the car today and yes the IC pump is dead. New pump and +10 cooling fan update completed and I reset the ECU tonight. Welcome back 150hp. IATs are running a solid 115 degrees and the cooling fans are screaming like crazy in this 107 heat. My wife gets her car back tomorrow running as it should.

I find it odd that all the MB dealers in Phx dont stock this pump. I wonder how many 55k owners are running around with dead IC pumps and no supercharger boost? SA was even surprised that it actually turned out to be the IC pump. Who knows, ran some scans on the car and A/F was holding strong up thru 4th gear and high loads. Good enough for now.

Replacing the IC pump is probably one of the most common threads here. People tend to replace with the Johnson or Meziere pumps (unless you're under warranty.) iirc, the OEM Bosch pump was upgraded later and is much better then the early ones.

Sure I agree that the IC pump is well covered on this forum. But, how many 55k owners actually spend time on amg forums? 10-15% As the pump fails it gives no notice but a general loss of performance and the ecu learns the new hot IAT and cuts back to compensate. What percentage of amg owner will notice that change over time? With a completely dead pump and 195° intake temps and more the ecu will not set a fault code. Not the best design.

Most of these 55k's are still under warranty or have extended warranty which is the only reason I took back the car. I would have just installed the Johnson if the money were coming out of my pocket. So I think many of these failures are going missed by the dealer and owners. I dont think any of MB dealers in Phx are really checking for this failure and many 55k owners are just running around N/A. That said, once the car is fixed I think every owner will report with positive reactions. After driving the car my wife reports her car is running great and what a difference. So our car is performing well at this point and I will keep a monitor on the gas tank situation. I really just wanted to document the after repair and also document that at stock running tune the A/F ratio seems to hold very well at wot, higher gear and high loads. The engine is safe and getting plenty of fuel to keep it happy.

So how do I fix this leak?
 

I just opened up the fuel sender plate area located under the back passenger seat and noticed it indeed had some gas puddled up. There is evidence of leaking. I have no clue how to fix this. or does the whole unit need to be replaced? Any suggestions? :nix: Again I smell gas inside the car after I fill her up at the gas station, but this happens only on some occasions.

Oh clearly this is a old problem. Nothing to see here folks. Dont listen to the crazy guy with the fuel paranoia.

I get it....enjoy the show.

:popcorn:

On the other hand, you could have answered by helping the guy :nix:

Lybones, do a search here on MBWorld and you'll get lots of info. But it would be helpful if you can take your VIN down to your dealer and have them run a VMI. This will show if you had the recall done already. If it had been done, then you need to tell the dealer it's still leaking. Also check the part number on the unit done under recall (if it's been done) and the part that's currently in the car. That will help others here, too.

In the meantime be careful to never overfill the tank (stop when the pump clicks off on its own.)

I already PM'ed the member with the information he needs. Thanks

Also, if you fill the car up to the first click on the gas pump. You are already too full and the seal will be leaking out. I dont know if I would be spreading that info.

Dont worry folks, just fill your E55s up to 3/4 and you may never have this problem. sarcasm/kinda funny Mercedes owners with E55s need to worry about simply filling up the car.

Wow, that smell drives me nuts! I did a temp repair on Monday and checked it today and no leak, but still smells very strong. Btw it's not my car it's a friend of mine known as (moosejaw) on here.

You are going to view people throwing their cigarettes out of their window in a whole new light.

?? Did I miss something here. I sense some "arm chair bravado" happening on this thread.??

I can't recall if the fix has been done. I'll make a visit to the dealer some time this week. Thanks for the tip.

The sarcasm was directed to the members that decided to make personal attacks in my direction (snail45 and mikey)because I was the one to cry foul on this fuel system matter. I dont normally post on this forum but the design fault was serious enough to prompt me to post the information. The folks can make all the personal attacks they want but the thread is here as a resource for the time when these cars do start fire bombs.

I did send you a PM to follow up and provide any information that I have including the contact at MB USA.

My wife actually had some good input on why no E55s have blown up yet. Could it be the owners are smart enough to realize they have a fuel leak and dangerous condition and seek repairs asap. Yep

BTW,

220S...here is the thread where the MBWorld member installed the new fuel system.

https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...el-system.html

Ouch, it looks like this gas tank let go.

http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-495679?hpt=Sbin

Come on. Geez. You sound like a little kid now. Your initial post was informative but why do this?

That's an S-Class with an obvious engine fire.

"This gas tank let go" yeah, okay.

My seal has failed again... It's only been 2 months... Anyone have any other methods of repairing this? How can 2 seals fit? Please pm me any solutions that can help avoid another trip to the dealer

obvious engine fire? Your the expert now.

Since I sound like a little kid you can lead the class now.

I dont know the source of the fire on this late model S class. I was sent this link from a friend in So Cal. I can only see the whole car including the gas tank lit up. I dont know where it started nor did I attempt to guess where it started.

But, should this late model S class be going up in flames just driving down the freeway? Just food for thought.

BUT you said "Ouch, it looks like this gas tank let go" SO how does this fire even pertain to an 03-06 E Class and how did you deduce the feul tank let go Shelock?

:rolleyes:

From the location of a fuel tank in the S class. It looks like the tank was part of the fire. Just ahead the rear wheels. Where the fire started? I have no idea with the little evidence provided so far.

Not rocket science.

Would it not make sense that MB has a similar design fuel system on the S class chassis?

Again not rocket science.

Should a late model S class be going up in flames just driving down a CA freeway?

Make no mistake MB USA is watching this thread. How are you doing boys and girls? I also have knowledge of some buy backs. One of them was a E63 with "fuel" issues.

Look, if you have so much info and know what's going on every time there's a car fire in the world, then why not share that info here with MBWorld members? Instead you just keep playing some sort of cat and mouse "I told you so" game. Is this about you wanting to feel vindicated or is it truly about solving an issue?

Where's the "news story" and the reporters? Where's the "lawsuit" and the lawyers? Did you roll over? What are you doing about this besides playing the doom and gloom game?

Seriously, are you interested at all in this issue or are you only trying to get back at people (ie MBUSA) because they dissed you? imho, it appears kind of childish if it's the latter.

Let's talk sensibly about this issue and quite allowing MBUSA (if indeed they are really reading this thread) to be able to write everybody off as a bunch of reactionary wackos.

Our car is fixed for now. If the local news is too busy to worry about a potential hazard I cant make them print it. As a pilot told me a few weeks ago....regulations are written in blood. It may come down to that but I hope it does not.

What exactly is doom and gloom if a burning late model S class is revealed? Its simply a piece of the puzzle. It could mean the S class may have a similar problem. It could mean the MB fuel design has a flaw. Its a part and file of evidence that MB may have a problem. What part of that dont you get? The word is getting out just like the Jeep gas tank fires. This story was sent to me from a Audi owner. People are aware.

Thats about it. You can have your sand back.

Or...you could put it back in the hole you are digging. You have presented no proof of any of the magnum p.i. claims you are making. Now you are bringing in different cars. Shall we do a search of other car fires and go after their manufacturer? Not the first car fire.

Perhaps the S-class in the video has an aftermarket sound system that was hooked to the battery which was at fault? You have no clue about the situation, yet you accuse the fuel tank.

Its just information. I found it interesting such a new S class was found burning on the freeway. The gas tank was lit. I left it at that.

As for the sound system theory. Do you really think that could apply here? Everyone makes their own decisions.

I dont need proof of squat. Its just information passed along given to me from other Audi and MB owners. The more members aware of a potential danger the better. Not telling anyone to go out and sell their car or sue MB for anything. Just keep an eye out for their own well being.

Sorry if that rubs you the wrong way.

This.

Thank you. Leave the rest of the B.S. out and there is no wrong rubbing. :y

Again, if you have information that's helpful to other members here then why not post that specific information?

In a way, you almost seem to be really hoping to have an E55 blow up so you can be vindicated. It's a bit weird, sorry. Maybe talk about the issue and quit vying for some kind of veneration with your assumptions and your links to sources like an older CL burning due to an ABC line bursting and a random S Class that caught fire. You'd make a bad lawyer :)

When somebody says "I have knowledge that you don't" and then never produces that info, what's the point? How does that help anybody here? I just don't understand that kind of attitude I guess. Why the arrogance? :nix:

Ok,

I'm aware of MB kicking in a big chunk of change to take back a E55. Repeated fuel leaks was the cause. Owner asked to keep his info out of print.

I'm aware of a E63 that was a buy back from MB due to some type of repeated fuel issue. This was told to me by a fellow RS6 owner out east. The E63 owner was his friend.

Honestly, another RS6 owner in So Cal sent me this S class link and I posted it up here. Really this sort of thing should not be happening with MB top line products. The E55 burning is just the matter of smart E55 owners catching a potential fire hazard before it takes off. Do I want one to burn? No. A new member was able to find his fuel leak last week with a google search and found the thread. That is why I posted the thread.

Thanks for all the information guys! I can smell gas inside the car since my last fill up! Good lord, what is wrong with Mercedes? I love driving the car but damn!

I just confirmed, I have the problem too! It is a very slight leak on the driver's side. I did slightly overfill the tank. ... next steps? I will probably try to contact the dealer to run a check to see if the recall was done on my car.

Geez .. kind of a sucky first week for owning this car! Between this and transmission fluid .. may be I should just light a match and put myself out of further misery? ... Nah ... too much fun to drive! :D

Appreciate any help anyone can offer to fix this (PM or otherwise) I will also search.

Thanks everyone!

I guess you guys all saw the mess Ferrari had with the 458's burning up?

Some epoxy used to bond some rear panel could not take the exhaust heat and voila... barbeque.

Ferrari has recalled all cars, and arranged for replacement cars to those that have had any damage.

I guess the difference is in a companies response to a problem. Ferrari's was patently obvious though.

Damn, this is some scary stuff. Gas smells coming from cars is playing with fire.... Literally.

When I'm in a very quiet area, music off, etc. and my tank is full (W212 E350), or semi-full-ish, I can hear the gas swinging around ever so faintly. It just literally sounds like I have a 1/2 full jug of water in the trunk, swishing around, when I move the car backwards or forwards.

Hopefully this is a paranoid longshot, but is that something to be concerned about at all?

To be honest you made your point a long time ago, and move on. I think this is the only thing you have posted about while being a member on this site, so what is your true agenda?

My true agenda? Helping owners such as this find potential hazards before they become a reality.

What is so hard to capture about that idea? As noted before, the E55 is my wifes daily driver and I have have no plans to modify anything. I did join this forum some time back to read up on common failures and service tips on common failures to keep educated on the platform. Sorry I dont have modding stories or drag racing tales to tell about the car. Sorry I dont have upbeat information to spread about MB products. MB has failed its owners with regards to this problem and continue to hide or stick their heads in the sand. Only with educated owners that push the topic can we potentially find a real fix.

Back when MB USA put out the campaign in the spring of 2008 there was mention of certain driving conditions in the campaign. Short trips in high heat climates.

I wonder if that applies to the current rash of leakers as well? How much pressure develops inside these tanks as a result of the entire circulation system being inside the tank? Both fuel pumps, fuel pressure regulator, return lines are all located inside this fuel tank. Pressure must develop inside. I wonder if repeated short trips makes the problem worse and hot climates would also lead to additional pressure inside. When the tank is full or near full the air space in the tank is limited and we all know you cant compress gasoline so the pressure in the air space could rise to a point that it pushes out the level sensor gaskets.

I find it funny how Audi approached this same EPA mandate. As noted before, the 2003 RS6 has a full standard fuel system with regulator on the fuel rail and a return line. Audi was not willing to alter the fuel system to meet the 04 mandate and instead built and shipped 2003 RS6s all the way up to Dec of 03. The rest of the 04 Audi lineup had a simple little fuel filter with a fuel pressure regulator built in. A 3rd nipple was designed in this device and a short fuel return line to the gas tank was added. Apparently the EPA was ok with this design because the fuel filter/regulator was located right back close to the fuel tank. So there were no other hoses, lines or regulators located inside the gas tank of the Audi models to meet the EPA mandate. Audi does not seem to have any problem with gas tank seals up to this point. It could be how the design differs.

I called my nearest Mercedes dealer today and they said there is no recall for this. Does someone have the service bulletin reference number? By the way .. thanks for providing the info to me in PM. Even though this is an old issue, I am new to the car and just started smelling it .. so the timing was perfect!

Did you give the dealer the vin number? Ask if any open campaigns exist for the vin and if none exist...ask when the campaign was performed and what parts were changed.

The campaign gave the dealers a choice to replace the driver side fuel level sensor. The one in the pics with the fuel outlet nipple.

I think the campaign number is in this thread or the sticky above in the W211 section. edit: here it is in this thread.

https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...l-related.html

Another burning late model S class on the side of the freeway. Under the car is lit and under the hood. Just saying this was just driving down the freeway and looks similar to the white one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5GlSRZJ4G8

^^^^^ :smash: :smash: :smash:

Well, I finally got a chance to take the car to the dealer yesterday. I gave them the VIN and they said the recall had already been performed on my car ... well I said either it wasn't done or wasn't done right! They inspected the car and admitted it smelt strongly of fuel. After more inspection, they said it was probably the seal ($500 to replace) .. nothing was cracked. If it wasn't the seal then it may be the breather tube and if it was that, then the whole tank needed to be replaced $4400!

I decided to take the car and get the heck out of there. The seal is an $11 part. I am not going to pay Mercedes over $490 to replace it when it is so simple! I knew I should've just replaced it myself to begin with! What a waste of time. Arguing with them is not much use. I could have replaced it in the time I drove down and back twice! It woudn't have been anything for them to replace it but I guess they don't see it that way. It's rare that I go to the dealer and today was a reminder as to why.

Good Luck... I replaced both my seals and the problem is still apparent. Im thinking its the gas tank... MB USA refuses to own up to the prob. its a lost cause with them

Great ... just great! Is it not clear where it is coming from? I am going to fill my tank with the seats and covers off to see where it is seeping from. May be just JBweld the whole darned thing! LOL!

Same story. 2005 W211 fixed under the 'technical service bulletin'. Starts acting up in August of 2010 with about 37k miles. Leaves a huge puddle in my garage, dealer replaces seals. Fill car up after getting it back and it totally reeks of gas inside and out. Get it back to dealer who replaces seals and pumps. Today it started smelling again - just about the time I got the gas smell out from the previous repair. I filed a safety complaint with the NHTSA and am going to go bonkers with the dealer and MBUSA if it doesn't get fixed this time. I sent a very clear e-mail documenting the condition and concern in case it burned my garage down. Better safe than sorry.

This car is like a hot girl who cheats on you. You love it, but you know you shouldn't. No matter how much you love it, it still wants to make you sad.

I'm getting an M5 next.

Yeah .. I was a BMW fan ... never encountered safety issues like this on any of the Bimmers I have had (not saying they don't exist). If this were a wear item, I could understand, I just think it is BS that MB won't take ownership and fix it! BMWs have their own issues though! Like you said .. like a cheating girlfriend .. love driving this moving bomb!

Update on my fuel smell issue:
 

Just wanted to update you all on what happened with me:

I had the exact same issue as 03RSTT and many of you are having. The cabin of my 2003 E55 started smelling like gas, took it to the dealer, he said that both fuel sending units (there's one on either side of the gas tank) were leaking gas out the tops. He could not tell if it was a small crack in the plastic of the sending unit assembly or a broken o-ring seal on top. Either way he said both had to be replaced.

I had already done my research on this and other forums' posts and played dumb to see where he'd take it. I said "Oh wow, well that seems like a huge safety issue. Have you ever heard of anything like this happening with these cars? Have you heard of any bulletins or recalls?" He said he'd never seen or heard anything like this issue before. I let him get off the phone so he could call my extended warranty company to see if they'd cover it.

Next day he calls back and says the warranty doesn't cover the sending units. By now I have all my research handy (and have already priced out the replacement of both units - $2,000) and said "Well there's been a recall for this exact issue on this exact car, it's a major safety concern and I'm going to contact MBUSA as well as NHTSA on this matter." He solemnly asked for the recall campaign number (2008-020001) and pledged to look into it.

A few days later (without my calling MBUSA, NHTSA, or doing anything other than mentioning the above to him) he calls back and says the replacement of both sending units will be covered as a "goodwill gesture" by Mercedes Benz.

Clearly the above posts, complaints to MBUSA and NHTSA, and general uproar over this issue have gotten MBUSA's attention, because he'd clearly contacted his service manager who contacted MBUSA who said they'd cover it and to use the words "goodwill gesture", which other posters here (the lucky ones) have heard from their dealers as well.

Here's my advice: if you have this issue, bring it to your dealer, let him diagnose it, then bring up the recall and explain that you're prepared to complain to MBUSA and NHTSA (campaigns at the NHTSA exist for this issue for I believe all model years of the W211 E55). Hopefully you'll get the same answer.

Still in the shop
 

So on trip #3 (fourth, if you count the recall service) is headed toward week two. I went in last week to get something out of the glovebox to find the entire dealer service team standing underneath my car. They replaced the seals again - topped it off - and it leaked again. The service manager said they were going to call the MB Tech Rep and said that my offer to freak out with MBUSA may be called upon in the near future. They are at the end of their rope with the car and don't know what to do next.

A guy at work offered to buy my E55 from me, but I don't know if I can sell it to him with a clear conscience.....

You may want to have them check the tank, as there has been a few incidents where the sending units were fine but the tanks were leaking.

I actually suggested they check the tank when I brought it back the second time - and sent him a leak to a couple of forums. As of last week, they elected to drop the tank and found that it was leaking up around the fuel filler neck and collecting around the modules. They will have all of the parts tomorrow or Monday, save for some little tiny bracket that is on backorder through Nov. 21. I'll be lucky to have my car back by Thanksgiving.

Oh well. Maybe I'll take the E55 and my Chevy truck and go get a new King Ranch...

I looked into the issue more closely myself. Here is what I found on my car

https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...ation-diy.html

On further investigation today, I will have to pull the fuel pumps out on the passenger (right) side in order to get the sender on the left out. The cap on the right side is starting to crack too. I think before too long, it is going to start leaking too! This is such a poor design!

My car is now under warranty. I will replace the driver's (left) side since it was leaking before I got the warranty. But the other side I am going to wait on and let warranty cover that one if/when it leaks. Each side is $348 to replace! (parts only).

I can't believe this is going to be my first post on this site as I've been stalking for over a year.
I have the exact same problem and MB told me they would not help.
I have raw gasoline under the seats were my 16month old sits!! WOW!
I had the recall performed in 2008, but both units are leaking. Thanks to the members on this site I knew exactly what to check. I want to spend my time and money improving this car not fixing it!

Looks like I'm axing that idea of one day buying an E55! Lol.

Yup ... well I know some people take the stance of this was a $100K vehicle and yes I need to pay to play on this but I have owned numerous vehicles of different brands and models, I have never once had issues like this on those cars. This is unquestionably a design/material fault. If this were a wear item, I could fully understand needing to replace it but this is not just a reliability issue but a safety issue. I could not believe how fast the fuel poured out of the top of the sender and left a huge puddle under the rear seats. The fuel pump side shows distinct signs of wear and cracking. I would like to make sure everyone one that owns an E Mercedes checks under their rear seats ... I am not ranting here, please just check under your rear seats after topping up as a matter of safety. Surely the few people on here cannot be the only ones with this issue.

Would this affect non E55 W211's?

there is a fuel recall for the w212, but for diesels. A simple web search will cover it.
Honestly, just search this forum. Everything I have ever needed for repairs, service, tuning or advise can be found on here.
I live two lives - the one I live on line looking at performance upgrades for my car and the real life I spend fixing the thing!
This latest thing has me boiling. - If you recall a car for a safety issue, repair it and a few months later the customer shows you the same problem - then you didn't fix it! basic customer service.
When you have a high end product like the AMG that is leaking fuel in the passenger compartment, I would do everything in my power to fix it for my names sake.
MB spend $1.5m a day on research and development, they could fix this.

I do get the very occasional gas smell if I fill up my car and drive straight home. I just filled up today and when I went into my garage (after reading your post) and could smell gas. I decided to pull up my back seat, but there was no fuel on top of the sender (the area was clean and dry). Any other ideas where the gas may be coming from?

Back in March I had the issue, the dealer replaced the fuel sender, It started smelling of fuel again three weeks ago....

They are replacing my tank, sender and pumps....

all on Mercedes Benz's dime. They know there is an issue, you just have to push

An update:

As background, both my fuel sending units were cracked and leaking. Took to dealer, he diagnosed it, was going to be about $2,000 to fix, I brought up the recall, dealer looked into it and decided to cover it as a "goodwill gesture".

Picked up the car from the dealer and asked about what was going on and why he covered it. He said that he hadn't known about the recall till I told him about it, he looked it up and saw it addressed exactly this issue. He couldn't see what the previous dealer who performed the recall work actually did (there were several options: replace sending unit, replace seal, do nothing). He said the dealer itself and Mercedes the company were involved, somehow sharing the cost of the repair/replacement. He said the part had been updated since '03 and so I shouldn't have this issue again.

Unfortunately it sounds like most people with this issue see it happen again, so I'm just waiting for it. I asked specifically about the warranty on the repair, and he said that since it was a "goodwill gesture" (read: free) there was no warranty on the sending units. However, I do have a feeling that if the exact same issue happens again, and I bring it to this dealer who supposedly did the work that was supposed to fix it for good, they won't just saddle me with the whole cost again. I'm very happy with this dealer and the way they've handled it, just not too pleased with Mercedes design...

Not much else to report, have been driving the car for a few weeks since the repair and have had no issues, but it will take time to tell. Once again can't stress enough that if you have this issue, take your car to the dealer and mention 2008-020001. Also, go to NHTSA and file a formal complaint, as I and countless other E55 owners have.

Good to see that some people have had good luck with the dealer replacing stuff on Mercedes' dime. My own experience has not been so positive. I am pushing back on the dealer at this time to fix my issue. I can likely fix my issue but am concerned about the material that they used in general. If I fix the one part that is leaking, is some other part of it going to fail and cause a bigger issue, this is why I am going back to Mercedes on this.

My advice if going back to Mercedes is don't tell them you have opened up the two ports to look at the fuel issue otherwise they will say that they are "concerned" about contamination getting into that area causing the failure! Just tell them you smell gas and read about incidents and leave it at that. I may be SOL but I am going to give it a try at least.

[QUOTE=03RSTT;4224277]I don't pop up here often anymore, but I know what I'm talking about buddy. cheers

csumt76-Clearly, you have all the answers just because you tell us so. I love it.

On a more positive note. Glad this thread has helped a few owners. The complaints are piling up at NTHSA and you can read the complaints on the web site. The latest work by Turbo97se seems to have picked up on something new. I will try to go out and check my old failed components later this weekend.

[quote=csumt76;4368938]

[QUOTE=03RSTT;4369005]csumt76-Clearly, you have all the answers just because you tell us so. I love it.

On a more positive note. Glad this thread has helped a few owners. The complaints are piling up at NTHSA and you can read the complaints on the web site. The latest work by Turbo97se seems to have picked up on something new. I will try to go out and check my old failed components later this weekend.

Maybe you need to find someone to work on your car that knows what they are doing. :D

Looks like I am SOL on this. I reported this to Mercedes Benz, someone called Rose at extension 7089, she gave me the run around. I lost my patience and told them I am going to pull the sender and have it analyzed by my materials lab. I'm pretty sure the material is of low quality. Pump side is showing signs of cracking. I told them I was going to report this to the NHTSA she just said shewould note down that we had this conversation and I just hung up. I was really angry cos she kept interrupting me while I was talking it's only $400 to replace the part but it's more the principle of the thing to me. Good luck to the rest of you. I don't have much choice other than to fix it myself. Pretty easy really.

One more thing ... I was surprised/disappointed/shocked to see the terminals on the fuel pumps are not even insulated! Mercedes couldn't even be bothered enough to put a couple of neoprene or molded HPDE over the connections ... bare connections immersed in the fuel tank? Come on Mercedes!!!

You mean like EVERY OTHER Car maker on the planet? No one insulates the fuel pump terminals

Okay found the issue on my fuel leak/smell.

The Evap Valve which is located on the saddle and goes to a 1" vent line cracks and leaks.

It's not the tank, it's the evap valve. when it leaks the fuel will flow down to the pump/sender basket and pool on the pump or sender.

The ONLY way to see the evap valve leak is to drop the fuel tank (After you drop the exhaust and drive shaft)

so there you go we know know what the problem is

Honda, Nissan and Toyota do not do this. I can assure you on this, so saying EVERY OTHER car maker is not accurate. Try stripping all the insulation off the wires running inside your gas tank and let us know what happens.

Nothing will. Honda Nissan and toyota use external pumps, not in tank pumps.

LOL ... I am not even going to bother to argue with you.

BMW M5 - insulated wires - http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo...t=embedwebsite

You need to tell all these guys they are doing it all wrong because clearly they should be dealing with external pumps!

External fuel pump on Toyota Lexus?? http://my.is/forums/f221/diy-walbro-...s-alot-409785/

External fuel pump on Nissan Maxima?? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51iZC...eature=related

External pump on a Acura/Honda?? http://www.honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=2424575

I can not put over 1/2 tank in mine or my whole house smells and check fuel cap light comes on.. recall done also:nix:

Did you read the entire thread? I posted specific directions to check out the tank and look for the leak. Please report your findings.

After something like five weeks, my car is back home again with a new fuel tank. The Evap Valve is the item that was hosed up and they replaced the whole tank as part of the deal. This determination was made after multiple trips for new seals and a set of modules. The dealer said that the new tank has a different part number and is a new item.

One more thing....
 

And my check engine light is on. I'm not inclined to go down there for the 80th time, so I'm going to use a code scanner and send it to the guys to look at. I'm starting to wonder if my intercooler pump is gone because it didn't feel as strong as it used to, so I may as well get some of my own data before plunking down for another deductable on my extended warranty.

I am having exactly the same issues posted on this forum. We bought our 2004 E55 AMG in Dec of 2009 with 47,000 miles, the recall was completed in June 2008 with 40,500 miles. I love driving this car and dreamed for years of owning a vehicle like this. It soon became a real pain. At first the jerking/hesitation started as discussed on this forum. The car was so fast and smooth at full throttle but jerked around town like a person learning to drive a standard, at part throttle. I took it to MB for service and informed them it was likely the charcoal canister or a fuel related issue. But they went straight for the expensive options and tore the engine apart, replacing intake sensors and MAP sensor. They kept the car for over a month and wasted a tank of gas without a solution. They wanted to replace the ECU for $3000 (I declined) and eventually gave up on the car, stating they could not fix it. The check engine light has illuminated intermittently since they worked on it. The hesitation is gone but so is the power. The red flashing gas cap warning on the dash goes off frequently, even though I have purchased a new one. In the past few weeks the fuel smell is getting worse, especially after filling up. The car just failed Air Care and I will have to take it in to MB again. I hope they can fix it correctly this time under the recall campaign funds. I thought MB was a great brand and stood behind their products, especially AMG. How wrong was I? I have never had so many issues in such a short time with any vehicle I have ever owned.
This forum is great and I appreciate the assistance, wish me luck!

I just took my car to the dealer to have both sending units replaced. I talked to my Service Advisor and she said that the only thing that they can do is offer me 10% off of the bill since me car is not under warranty. I called MBUSA and they said that a "case agent" will be contacting me with what MB can do for me. I expressed my concerns and that may if not all E55 owners are having the same issue. Waiting for a call back from this "case agent". I stressed the fact that I bought a MB because of the safety and reliability of their product and did not expect to have my 2 year old sitting on a puddle of gasoline! Car only has 80k miles on it.

I am working with Diana at extension 7834

Waiting to hear back from her. I am going straight to the point with her. MB should be covering my 1,200.00 repair bill with no questions asked or I may seek legal council and will definately report it to the feds.

Check engine light goes off, owner messes car up
 

Check engine light went off after about 1/3 tank. Of course, the very next day I dropped my laptop on the rear seat HVAC vents and knocked the louvers out. I also noticed that a piece of trim fell off of my rear passenger side ashtray. Perfection is not cheap at about $400 installed for both. I tried and tried to re-assemble the HVAC vent, but gave up when one piece went down into the vent.

No more fuel smells - so maybe the demons are gone.

two different Dealers two different answers.
 

Well here's an update to my gas leak issue that's been delayed for too long. I finally took my car which smelled like a gas big time after filling up to H0use of 1mports in Buena Park, Ca who had my car for 4 days (with no loaner) then tells me that since I have no service history with them who is to say if they fix it and I might not come back for future service. They offered to pay half of the repairs =$650. I couldn't believe this crap since it was a recalled part. So I took my car to a different dealer nearby and spoke with the advisor there who gave me a loaner car and eventually replaced all parts at NO CHARGE after I showed them the recall campaign letter. They replaced my whole fuel filter/sender module under the back seat on the drivers side (which is stated in the letter). I would like to note that I showed both advisors at both dealers a copy of the recall campaign letter, too. Never again will I go to ghetto H0use of 1mports. A business is truly only as good as its worst employee. I wish anyone else here having these issues the best of luck!

BTW, my e55 sure is "The Bomb" :naughty:

Same problem here, Looks like the drivers side unit was replaced but I have a small puddle on the passenger side. Called MBZ dealer in Newport Beach and was told it had nothing to do with the recall since the recalled portion had been repaired. Service Manager directed me to the parts dept to buy a new seal. Will let the tank get low and replace the seal. I did notice there were t small pieces of rubber in the bowl that look like the seals for the electrical connector, I hope I dont need a new sending unit $$$.

Pics: http://picasaweb.google.com/10078182.../E55FuelSmell#

just to add to all this, i took my 04 in to south bay mercedes to have the recall done due to gas puddling. i got my car back and went straight to fill up a block away. sure enough it was puddling again and back to the dealership i went. it was pretty obvious that the module had a crack in it and the recall sleeve was not going to cut it but they told me that my vin did not fall under a replacment module, only a metal sleeve and i would have to pay out pocket. i trusted them and ended up paying over $1600 cause i also needed a new fuel pump because the wiring had dracked off and the wires were completely exposed in the tank. the best part of the story is after the car had been sitting a few weeks in the garage i go and start it up and fuel starts pouring out the bottom. i open it up and the fuel line thats crimped on the module is squirting like old faithful. those stupid mothers cant even crimp a fuel line correctly. i have had it.

fwiw, I think South Bay is the worst dealer in the entire country (it's owned by Auto Nation.)

Try a good Indy like G&N in West LA. http://gnnmotors.com/

Also MB of Beverly Hills isn't too bad as a dealer (owned by Group 1 Automotive.) They're also a certified AMG Performance Center.

What a joke! Costs $330 + shipping to replace the part + 45 minutes of work (taking it slow). I used a hose clamp, just be careful not to overtighten it. Most dealers are idiots, they don't have to try hard to stay in business, unlike Indys.

Could you please tell me where you bought the parts from? I'm having the same issue with the fuel tank or sender. However, I have been postponing it by only filling my tank up half way. I did a search on "thepartsbin.com" but it the parts did not come up.

Thank you,

Mike

Me too,

Cannot locate the passenger side sending unit, if it is cracked, i gotta replace it.

Please help

Cheers

www.parts.com

The part number varies by year. Mine is 2005. The parts are

My Pump A2114701794 (most years)
My Sender A2114705194 (I think the cut off was 2005)

Best to go to EPC on line to check the latest and greatest part numbers. By the way, the price is $351 not $330, sorry I made a mistake there.

I think if people can fight it, and have Mercedes pay for it, they should! I just lost patience and wanted to get my car on the road again. Good Luck. I have a DIY if you want to search for it.

Since this thread started out with "these cars are bombs," and all the speculation about burning Benzes (which haven't yet appeared thankfully) here's something to maybe be concerned about if you own a BMW X5.... :nix:

http://www.topix.com/forum/autos/bmw...A2Q79QUHKB8/p3

http://www.ctpost.com/news/article/F...#ixzz1AkmSmeVu

today i was cleaning my wheels, and i smelt gas... just filled it all the way last night, now theres about 3/4 of a cup of gas in the pump sending units hole. has this been addressed by MB yet?????????

Please read this entire thread...

This issue is really out of control. They need to man up and take care of business.

It has to be a group effort. Individual claims and complaints wont phase them.

:eek:

How is that not getting more press? BMW should be under fire for this, literally.

Scary stuff.

I called roadside, and they wouldnt help at at all, and i told them it wont be good for them if i blow up in their car, and she said all i can do is have it towed... wtf... how about make another recalll?????????

I am now one+ to this statistic. Big thanks to the members who put in their own time posting up pics and write UPS. I can't imagine how freaked out I would be if it wasn't for this forum when I smelled fuel in my car. How can we help with addressing this issue to MBusa as a group?

talk to 03rstt and he'll help you out

I'm sorry to read about about so many new leaks. We are not even in the heat of summer yet. This has me concerned.

This is a serious issue and while the subject title of the thread may be alittle extreme...I did add "just waiting to go off". Just remember, I wrote this thread after filling up our E55 in 100+ degree heat and simply driving home a mile or two to wash the car. I was pouring fuel out the whole way home. You could say I was alittle heated about the whole situation having gone thru 2 repairs for this condition in 2 years and then having this massive failure right out of the blue.

If I took this car out on the freeway who knows what would have happened.

How to proceed?

1. Document your situation. Take the seat out and covers off and take pictures. Document time and mileage.
2. Take the car into MB service and plead for help in the matter. Ask for the condition to be sent to MB USA and ask for regional advisor on the issue. Get any and all feedback in writing.
3. Call NHTSA and file your claim. Explain to the rep that many other E55 owners are having the same problem and MB has not offered much help. Ask for a investigator.
4. Call MB USA and file your complaint. Take names and numbers of who you talk to. Ask for any final judgement in writing.
5. Sit back and wait. Or just sell the car.

I had a similar problem kept smelling gas from the rear passenger side so the dealer said they fixed it but I still smell the gas. Mbusa told me the same thing...I have been in a battle with mbusa regarding my tranny that died w. 56K miles...they found a problem with my tranny while under warranty and said they fixed it but obviously they didn't and now I'm out of warranty and they won't help at all :bs:

Bump for this thread as my car just started leaking fuel this weekend. :smash:

Well,

It has been 6 months and about 5,000 miles since the last major repair where both level assms were replaced along with new seals.

Filled up the car last week and parked in the garage....filled the garage with fuel smell. Too damn busy to f with it this week so we are keeping the car at 3/4 till I can inspect the senders again.

What a bitc$.

And two weeks ago the car left me stranded on I-10 in Phoenix. Stalled driving down the hwy like it ran out of gas. It showed 1/2 tank and roadside was worthless. 2 hrs for a tow. WTF? I called the wife and on a hunch told her to bring gas. Sure enough it was out of gas but showing 1/2 tank. Ran it down from full and after 340 miles it still showed 1/2 tank. More level sensor problems.

Having fun now. Wife will not even ride in the car and its her car. Nice work MB.

after 4 visits in 5 weeks
 

This was my recent nightmare with the fuel smell issues.

week 1. dealer replaced fuel sender because of a crack
then car stranded on freeway on same day I picked it up.

week 2. dealer replaced 2nd fuel pump assembly on right side which apparently gave out , then engine check turned on after picking it up.

week 3. dealer replaced left side fuel sender basket assembly again due to a broken sender switch in the new assembly. picked up car and again still smelled gas after fill up!

week 5. dealer replaced fuel tank because of leakage now.

My dealer covered everything except for labor cost of fuel tank replacement($650). my car is also out of warranty. According to the dealer, MB covered it all as a goodwill repair. I know they are aware of the issue. they just wouldn't admit it. I also suspect poor repair work which kept me coming back. good luck to all concerned.

Yikes. Looks like one or both of you are at that sad point in time where it's time to part with your cars. I wouldn't put up with that particular stuff.

My car smells like fuel when I fill her up...:(

We are in the market for a new car for the wife. She is driving the LX470 every day at this point. I will keep the E55 as a beater if I have to. I will also follow thru with the repairs with MBUSA and raise the concern again at NTHSA.

Sad day for AMG design. 9,000 page views on this thread and owners are having more problems even in the cool weather.

same goes for me!!! i will give a call to MB and see if they will cover even though its out of warranty. I do have an aftermarket warranty, but dont want to pay the $500 deductible if MB will cover it fully to replace whatever is causing the fuel smell

Whole new fuel system installed. She runs great now, why be sad?
Btw, it's not a car.....it's an AMG beast. Hand built......one man, one motor.....:naughty:

This post is from another thread. It implies that the tank itself in the pre-face lift W211s is the primary culprit. Maybe people with 2003-2006 cars should push to have the whole system replaced instead of bits and pieces here and there :nix:

"I never top up and I have a new gas cap. The leak is likely the evap valve and MB has a new part number for the tank ( I was told the evap valve is part of the tank) therefore the old tanks are faulty. The fuel leaks down the evap valve and accumulates on top of the fuel sending unit. Possibly the fuel on the sending unit cracks the plastic on the sending unit. The fuel sending units are faulty but it is all related, the leaking fuel causes the purge valve to stick open and the charcoal cansisters fail. (re check engine light and gas cap warning light). MB has replaced a few tanks at the owners cost and the issue goes away. It is my beleif that MB should pay for this repair because the tanks are covered for 7 year warranty. I have a problem paying MB $1000's of dollars to fix an issue that should be MB's responsibilty. All 2003-2006 E55 AMG's should be recalled.....again! But this time MB should fix it right and on their nickle! Good luck to all of us, we need it."

I smell gas when I fill up my 2006 E500. However, there is no smell on the inside of the car, just the outside. Strong enough to make my garage stink though.

It's been this way since I got the car about a year ago. Should I be concerned at this point?

FWIW, Still under warranty for a while.

As I noted above we have been too busy to deal with MB. I have been keeping the fuel level at 3/4 but with the gas gauge/level sensor failure this too is a pisser to keep straight.

Check engine light has come on and stays on.

I did notice that other thread on the leak and this gas tank information may help. Our car has had 4 failures in just under 3 years and 20k. Car now has 70k.

I will be pushing for complete tank replacement along with new(again) level sensors for both sides of the tank. My wife just laughs at the car and calls it a POS as she walks past it and gets in the Lexus every morning. Nice work MB.

Labor 356.85 DS Fuel Sending Unit Parts 588.43 Sublet 0.00 SubTotal 945.28

New part # for the DS sending unit 211-470-5194 , same seal 211-417-0579


vs 211-470-4994
211-470-4594


This was what i paid on Monday for my leaky DS fuel sending unit. The fuel filter module was replaced during the 2008 recall. No goodwill from MB at all. I even called the 800 # and they said it was up to the service mgr to make the decision. Well since it was my first service (bought the car in 12/2010) no relationship has been built yet. Took the hit and paid the $$$. My aftermarket warranty (Easycare) didnt cover it. It was not a listed part in the items covered for fuel system. WTF? It is part of the fuel system. But oh well. Car no longer reeks of gas standing outside rear of it.

Had my fuel pumps changed last year over 8000miles ago and has been fine.

Although when I drive the car really hard and I mean really hard to the point the exhaust note changes from the heat and it starts popping, I smell fuel around the fuel cap.

I checked it out and its hot fuel vapours and you can see the hot vapours when the cap is removed.........I think it needs a swirl pot to cool the return fuel, dont these cars have one ?

Mine seems to leak if I get it more than 1/2 tank, but it only seems to happen after I idle the car and let it sit for a while (in the garage). Apparently the original owner of the car had the recall done back when it first went out, so this isn't a new issue. For now I've just been adding 7 gallons at a time and leaving it at that.

Two things here....
FIrst I was at a car meet one friday night where i told a service writer of this problem. He was like....."Oh yeah, that's a common problem we get those all the time in the W211. It's not your fuel pump, seal, or the gas cap. We always have to replace your gas tank. We fix a lot of those at the dealer and we charge about $3K. Remember we have to drop your driveshaft, so there is about 8 hours of labor."

So i ask if they replaced the gas tank with a improved design and the answer is "No they havent, but there is a year warranty"

Secondly.... It's been reported that many Jeep Owners have complained to the NTHSA about their gas backsplashing when they fill up. However Jeep owners were not able to get anywhere as the complaint was attributed to the issue spreading through internet forums which further exasperated the problem.

Nonetheless has anyone thought about going to the NTHSA with this issue to force MBUSA to admit to the the problem?

I had the gas smell a year ago and after my car died on the freeway the fuel sender and filter pump units were replaced. My fuel tank was not replaced. I no longer have a gas smell even when I fill the tank up.

Mine went out about 6 months ago, the car smelled like gas, it was replaced under warranty.

Here's ainteresting article related to faulty fuel pumps in a honda civic
Of course there are a lot more civics on the road than the w211s

Just discovered I have the same problem.

Link is missing for some reason but i found the article on Autoblog

Anyone have the correct part numbers for the Driver side unit?

I have an '05 E55 and I have three different part numbers.

211 470 4594
211 470 4994
211 470 5194

Update:

I have second hand knowledge that an engineer from NHTSA is looking into this situation. I have his contact information and will be putting together my docs to send him. Stay tuned. Our car is now in the shop yet again and when I pulled into the service drive it smelled up the entire shop. They now understand this is serious.

NHTSA
 

I think it's great that they are looking into this issue. We need to get some sort of a list going with all the people that have been affected by this. I think that's the only way for them to realize the severity of the problem. Let me know if you would like my info for the NHTSA as I too had 4 visits to the dealer within a 1 1/2 month period to have both fuel sender units plus the gas tank replaced due to gas leaks. Sometimes I can still smell gas if my car sits for a few days. The gas smell comes in when the ac kicks on.

Well i hope this makes MB go w/a full recall campaign again. I just spent $989 out of my pocket to cover this (fuel sending unit DS). No goodwill at all.

Part for DS that i received was
211-470-51-94
211-771-05-79 same # for seal.

Filled up the tank all the way yesterday and no smell emanating from my garage at all this morning. Which is a good sign.

I hope what they do is not a "remedy" like Volvo did with their cars. The electronic throttle module (ETM) was a poor design and failed, stranding drivers on the road without warning. When they were forced to do a recall all they did was guarantee a replacement part (same design.) Owners were left with knowing they'd get a free fix, but still knowing that it could (and would) happen again.

Same thing with BMW's HPFP problem. They didn't redesign, but just offered to constantly replace the failed pump.

That would mean a free fix from MBUSA but continually having to do repeat fixes for the life of the car.

Unless the system can be re-designed with a new tank, etc.. But that would cost MB tons of money to replace in all the cars on the road (there are cases of it happening on all 2003-2006 E Class models, not just E55s.)

Is there any case of it happening in the post 2006 cars? If the E63 has a different system, then it shouldn't be too hard to just use the E63 units and tank as a remedy.

Edit: and I wonder why it doesn't just happen in all E55s. Someone has mentioned ethanol as a possible part of the problem. They now know that ethanol destroys plastic and rubber parts over time.

Update x 2

Diagnosis from dropping the car off on Monday?

Gas leak: Replace everything...gas tank, senders, fuel pumps. I was happy with the plan until today.

Brakes: Replace SBC accumulator. I told them it was bad last year.

Fast forward to today. After installing everything new including the new gas tank...it leaked from the level sensor at start up. This makes for 6 level sensors in just under 3 years and less than 20k miles.

I was told..."MB is having a problem with a parts supplier"

Well my friends...MB is having a big problem and its getting bigger by the day. The last time I checked the car says MB. The last time I checked the parts box says MB.

My data and story is going to the NHTSA engineer this weekend.

I'm not a happy camper and have 0% confidence in the long term repair of this problem.

I also have a question. If this gas tank is so fragile...what happens if we get rear ended in the car? I guess we are coming to the end of the AMG experience.

Could you please share this engineer's contact info with us so we can also let him know of the troubles we all have/had?

We had our sending unit replaced a couple months ago and it appears to be leaking again. :wall:
Thanks.

+1, I want his info aswell. I filed a claim at the NHTSA and nothing so far.
still leaking too.:rolleyes:

Smelled like fuel outside of the car today when standing next to it. Just checked mine, pulled the inspection cover off of the driver's side. There is a puddle of fuel and actually squirting out between the hose and the plastic fitting it fits to. This is all bad.

DAMN, this is insane to hear this stuff. I've cancelled my (started to get pretty into the idea) possible plans of eventually picking up an E55 to have on the side due to hearing all this.

Geez...... MB really needs to spend a buck to fix this

I have a 07 E63 cpo...after 3 mos I noticed the gas smell in garage only after complete fill ups. First trip to dealer they had it for 3 days and said the head mechanic checked everything and found nothing. So I thought it only smells right after fill up and after I drive a bit to reduce the tank level, the smell is gone...no big deal. Then I bring the car back for free oil change offer and tell them I still have the gas smell. Advisor says they found a leak within 4 hrs and I need a gasket replaced. Next day advisor calls and said something was still leaking and now they need to replace the fuel tank. I'm not too sure what's really happening since he was leaving vm's and I haven't spoke to him directly...Just wanted to let people know this happened in my 2007. I read earlier on this post that 07 had different fuel tank...?

Must have been the fuel sending unit....like mine.....Hopefully it will last for more than 2yrs... paid $900 over for mine

I have the same problem!!!!! I have a 2005 E55 which drives great and last month, I drove it to reserve tank. So I filled up and topped off then I went home 10 mns later and smelled gas all in my garage. NO LEAKs, NO puddles!. I drove it to the gym and I came out after an hour and I can smell it around my car also a little bit inside. I had this happen 3 times, but for some reason I havent had this issue come back and its my daily driver. I had no leaks anywhere, but I did not check under the rear seat by the pump. But this is definitely a problem. I am worried that it will come back. My buddy is a Master Mechanic at Benz, so I will have him take a look at it. I have been hearing all kinds of issues for the problems. Sucks

Welcome on the crazy train. It takes 3 minutes to take the lower rear seat out and remove the 8mm bolts that hold the inspection cover. Two covers... 1 on pass and 1 on driver side which are about 10 inches round. Fill the car up and go home for the inspection. I trust you will find the gas pooling on top of the sending units.

Submit to NHTSA asap if you have this leak.

dropping it off at the dealer in the morning....lets see if they will fix it free of charge.

I suspect this will become more common as time passes. I do not see any major fuel system design changes in the E63 that addressed this problem.

So.. I dropped it off at Mercedes Benz of Oxnard, CA. They had it back to me the next day, all fixed, no charge. My car has no warranty and 75,000 miles on it. The replaced the fuel sending unit. All better

Fuel pooling....
 

Up in drivers side sending unit this am....this blows! Hopefully warranty company will cover the sending unit???!

I checked the database and counted 8 people with 03-04's have filed complaints about the fuel leak issue on the E55. Will need to get a couple of hundred more to make waves and get something done. MBUSA said my leaks are past warranty @ 68K I asked if it was covered under the Evap emissions (8-80) and got a hmmm. Guess I'll see what they do for me.

File your NHTSA complaint asap. Ask to be forwarded to the engineer looking into this matter.

I am fed up with issues such as this and their irresponsible behavior that I am now buying 2 japanese or korean cars for the price of one nightmare starhell brand.

Let me guess now. So you are just off the warranty and you have this safety major malfunction and you are stuck with the whole bill? Did you try asking if they were out of their mind first? Now seriously, you guys should ask them to have at least the parts covered if not more under a goodwill waranty extension?.
As for me, I decided not to buy the nightmare brand anymore. They seem to be getting worst. WOW....:smash:

If I had this issue out of warranty, I would definitely pusue the repairs as a failure of the emissions control system. Auto manufacturers spend a lot of time ( as required by law) designing systems that completely capture fuel vapors. A full-on fuel leak is certainly NOT capturing all the vapors, and is therefore non-compliant.

The manufacturers warranty for emissions equipment is substantially longer than a conventional warranty, so you should be covered even if your regular warranty expired.

-G

Just filed mine.

Thank you for filing your safety-related complaint via our Web site or our Vehicle Safety Hotline. The ODI Number listed below will be a direct link to your complaint as soon as it is ready to view. Please allow at least two business days for approval and processing before trying to view your complaint online. You will then be able to view it and search any associated documents.
Your Confirmation number (ODI Number) is: 10395388 <http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints/results.cfm?odi_ids=10395388&SearchType=QuickSearc h&summary=true&refurl=email>

Just filed my complaint with nhtsa online....hopefully if enough sound off they will pay attention! On the upside...my Indy called today and the warranty company will be covering the new unit!

Ryan

Add me to the list.....same description as others but this is 2007 E63. 48,000 miles. Will take it next week for official diagnosis but it wreaks of fuel after fill up and goes away when the level comes down. I took the driver side cover off and found fuel.

Is the 2007 fuel sending unit the same part as the 03-06 units?

I never followed up on my post, but I had the same problem on my 07 E63 and the 1st attempt was to replace the fuel sending gasket which did not work...then after many days in the shop, the dealer decided to replace the whole gas tank. I have had no fuel smell issues at all since this and it's been 2 months now.

My dilemma now is whether to buy factory extended warranty or not, since my ends in Nov 2011...

This isn't specific to AMGs, but to all W211s. I was reading some info on the MBCA forum/website and they said that the "real fix" is a complete tank replacement and that all the other attempts won't work in the end. I guess the trick is to get the dealer and MBUSA to go along with the tank replacement. It seems like MBUSA is simply going to address this issue only on an individual and car by car basis. It will all come down to how loudly the owner can bark and convince the dealer to do a full tank and sending unit replacement even if still under warranty.

I wouldn't own one of these cars out of warranty.

I was hoping this statement would not come true. It seems we are onto the next stage of leakers in the E63s.

The gas tank fix mentioned above may play a role in long term seal but only time will tell. If the cars with replaced gas tanks hold tight for a couple years then we may have a solution.

Ughh... i found this thread about two days ago. Got in my car yesterday and am smelling gas. Not sure if it was my mind playing tricks on me so I had my buddy sit in my car and he smelled the same. So how do I remove the rear seat and cover and check myself? Please help.

Seat cushion comes out and you will see two coverplates with 7-8 10mm screws holding them in place. you want to inspect the one behind the driver, but check the passenger side as well.
The seat can be tricky but it comes out.

You will see gas puddling up at the base of the sending unit.

Yep...pulled the seat out then the inspection units. The drivers side was ok but the passenger side had some fuel pooled at the bottom. I purchased a warranty for this a week ago so I am lucky. taking it down to my indy dealer and having him do the fix on it on Monday. Will keep you updated. Thanks to the forum for this info. I would have never even guessed what it was or where to look.

Update- Took it to the indy dealer yesterday, he looked at it ordered a gasket for it. Took it in this morning, picked it up this afternoon, all fixed, no gas smell. Total cost under $84.00. All-in-all not a total train smash:y

Unfortunately the "gasket fix" will not resolve the issue, so be prepared for it to return.

btw, does the VMI for your car state that the fuel sending unit recall was already done previously?

This guy is correct. Also you probably haven't filled your tank up full. Be careful when you fill up. I would remove the covers above the senders on driver and passensger side and watch them as you fill the tank. I think you will find the gas smell comes back. Inevitable unless you replace the senders. Be prepared for $300+ part cost (each side) + install. Don't mean to be a pessimist but many of us have been down this road!

*update* missed the bit on warranty ... I decided to get warranty after this incident ... well worth it! :)

Would either of you be so kind as to PM me where you got the warrany and how much it cost?
I want to get this pre-existing condition fixed

Well I am going to stay positive and hope that I dont see any issues.

Gauge off ?
 

Has anyone also had a problem with their gauge not reading full ? The top two lines of mine never come on. The VMI for my 04 E55 shows that the recall was performed.

Mine always reads full

Alright, I have just joined the gas leaking E55 group. Filled it up and after getting home, dad informed that the garage smells like gas and I just had a quick flash of this thread in front my eyes.

I will be taking the car to the dealer tomorrow to see what they say. I am out of the factory warranty period (84k miles) but I do have aftermarket warranty. I have filled a complaint with NHTSA.

I'll be using my E55 tonight and prob have to fill it up tomorrow. I noticed when I first got it that after filling it up and parking it in my driveway that has a slight incline I smelt some gas after getting out. I backed out of the driveway and noticed what appeared to be 2 small drops. The driveway was wet and it smelt like gas.

Does anyone have any pics of how to remove everything and where those inspections plates are ? Pics of the gas on top of the sender and the seals would be a plus too.

Like I said I'm going to fill it up tomorrow and then try to have a look at it. I know that when I took it to the dealer to have the SBC changed out the tech said that the recall was performed. I mentioned that I smelt the gas before and he did a leak test on it for me. I have the print out at home still. I'm wondering if it is intermident with heat or a warm tank from the exhaust.

Honestly its pretty self explanatory here in my Post #254.
Just take out your rear seat as you would out of any other car.
No pictures needed.

The cover plates are in plain sight

Actually, there is some black padding underneath the seat that you will have to lift up.:)

I just checked mine yesterday and yes, it is pretty easy. Takes about 2-3 minutes.

So I called the MB dealer today and was told that there is no such recall for this...!!! Anybody has any recall number? I will be checking out my VMI in detail later today to see if I find anything.

Thanks. I haven't take the back seat out yet. Once the inspection plates are off is it possible to take the sender out of the tank ?

When they replaced the seal, they probably bent the sender arm a little. It's a bit of a pain to get that thing in and out.

See attached pdf with my post here:https://mbworld.org/forums/4452371-post11.html

SPVFD47: do a search here and/or on Google. There are several posts/threads with pics of pulling the units and various DIYs. I know there are some here and on Benzworld. (btw, Smelt is a small silvery fish and also a way to extract ore. But if you're a Brit or an Aussie, then you get a free pass to use "smelt" instead of "smelled.". :D)

btw, this is not only on E55s. It's happening on all W211s. The answer (according to some MBCA members) is a fuel tank replacement along with the new senders and gaskets, etc.. That seems to be solving it permanently. It appears that MBUSA doesn't want to go that route because of the expense, so they are doing quick temporary fixes that range from gaskets to sending units only. But it all depends on the knowledge and willingness of each individual dealer.

well, it seems it was done on my car and the problem has returned again..

Partial extract from the VMI for my car. Notice the 3rd line, it matches the number in your PDF.
http://i52.tinypic.com/10n6mxf.jpg

Now I am getting pissed! My car is smelling of gas again. Neither of the senders is leaking. Is there a particular area on the fuel tank that leaks? Looks like I am going to have to replace the tank too! Grrr!

03 e55 amg leak
 

I guess im joing this post that you guys have alot. I have a 03 e55 amg and its leaking also from sending unit. But my pump side on passenger is melting the cap. Now my car doesnt start at all Do i need to change out the sending unit to get the car to pump fuel to fuel pump? Can somone tell me if they have a similar prob?

Add me to the group of leakers....:eek:, I tried to fix it myself and the tip broke off...LOL. I called MBUSA since it states that fletcher Jones closed the recal but really did not do any replacement of part. Dealer said to come in they will check on saturday, if they dont replace it I will have to pay for it myself out of pocket.

I have not seen it cause non-starting. The only non-starting issue I had was after putting the fuel pumps back into the tank ... I did not seat the feed lines properly inside the tank from the fuel pump and it was leaking. A leaking SENDER should not affect starting. Leaks on the fuel pump side would.

LOL which part did you break off? The nipple at the top? I imagine that is common since it is a plastic piece. I recommend slicing off the fuel line and replacing it with new hose.

Well I got the chance to take the seat out and take the inspection covers off today. I didn't notice anything but the car was at a quarter of a take. I went and filled it up and here is what I found after driving 10 miles.

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphot..._5859965_n.jpg

If you look to the upper right you can see where the black plastic (which I'm guessing is part of the tank ) is getting wet with fuel. You can also see where the fuel is sitting in the base of the unit to the inside on the right side, which is the low part of the unit due to the way it sits.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphot..._6492415_n.jpg

Camera angled back to get a better view of the tank.

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphot..._1133383_n.jpg

View of the pool of gas on unit on the rear side. It looks like its leaking from that plastic piece on the left side of the photo which I'm guessing is the sending unit. This could be the cause of the whole problem. Hard to tell if its 2 pieces or not but it looks like theres a seal there.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphot..._8087198_n.jpg

Just another shot of the above with better lighting.

Now until today I never smelt gas on the inside of the cab. I'm hoping it's only due to the fact the covers where off. I have smelt it on the outside after filling up. I also noticed that while driving and moving air was coming thru the inspection holes while moving. So if a sufficent amount of fuel leaked there is the possibility of the fuel running down the tank to where ever.

I had the SBC Pump replaced on 28 June and mentioned to the SA that I smelt fuel after filling it up. I have the print of the leak test which says it passed. Guess I'll have to show him the photos.

UPDATE- Fuel Sending Unit
 

I took the car to the dealer and had it looked out, got good info to post up.

They diagnosed fuel sending unit and will be replacing it and the fuel pump at no charge (whew!) Parts alone are $1100 and with labor would be over $1500.

The tech and service manager say that if it is the unit then gas will be on top of it as many pictures in other posts clearly show. The car will smell of gas after filling up. If the problem is the evaporator hose issue then the car will throw CEL code and smell like gas. They had a few tanks to be discarded and I got a couple pictures.

First pic shows the hole where the sending unit goes and where the seal to the evaporator hole connects. It is the white(ish) nozzle to the right of the unit hole. Remember the unit is under the drivers side and the pump is under the passenger side.

The next picture is the seal that leaks if your problem is the evaporator hose connection. This thing would be under the middle of the rear seat and can not be seen directly with the eye. Apparently techs use a light and mirror to see the seal and along with whether the car is throwing codes, diagnose the issue. If this seal is bad then the tank has to be replaced.

They say that since the tank is under pressure that if its the seal leak it will loose fuel pressure and throw the CEL code. Of course a car could have both problems at the same time but they seem to put a lot of emphasis on the codes or not. The sending unit in my car had fuel on the top and around where it fits into the tank so I thought I may have had both issues, tech said probably not. I never saw him use a mirror and I looked under the cover before taking it in so I'm not quite sure how they use a mirror and light but whatever. The codes or no codes makes sense.

Also talked about if this issue is due to ethanol, probably so but do not use any additive like is used in marine application.

Apparently the design of the fuel sending unit has been updated too. I will take a picture of it after its fixed.:zoom:

IMHO the tank will leak again. It may take 6 months...it may take 12 months but it will leak again.

The only real fix is to replace everything...tank, senders, fill tube and all hardware.

I went thru 5 sending units and even more seals in 3 years before MB finally replaced everything. Been fine since.

If you have any info on updated sending units please post the source. Is the pn different? What build date is updated?

I do not see how a vapor pressure leak inside the tank would change the fuel pressure at all. The fuel pumps and regulator are sealed and the bypass just dumps into the tank.

What an awesome thread. 12 pages and over 14,000 page views. Nice job MB.

211-470-51-94 sending unit DS
211-771-05-79 same # for seal.

Had this replaced back in march 2011.

It sucks that this is even happening and for so many years now is rediculous.

Was your car giving codes?

no codes, just gas vapors every time i filled up. Would last until a 1/4 tank went down and fumes went away. It started happening when i had an 9month old in the back seat and didnt want him to breathe it in.

Thats very similar to mine. Our girl just turned one on the 23rd.

Have you had trouble with it since then?

Since the repair, no issues so far.

This seems to be the "real" fix (and as I mentioned in a previous post here.) I was in today to see my dealer for some unrelated service and had a quick chat about the issue. The initial "fixes" were not solving anything (as you well know) but a tank replacement along with everything else is doing the trick. One reason why dealers hesitate doing the tank is because of the labor involved (sub frame drop.) And getting the labor charge rebated from MBUSA isn't as easy as they'd like. So a lot will depend on one's relationship with their dealer. btw, he said the parts aren't new but have been "adapted" for the issue (whatever that really means.)

What's unusual is that not all cars will develop the issue. They've seen W211s with high mileage and no problems, and the population with issues is relatively small compared to all registered W211s on the road. It's almost like luck of the draw.

But here's a good one: my dealership said they just did a fuel sending unit fix on a leaking car the other day...... the car: a W212.

You have got to be kidding- a new model same issue:X

Now that you mention "adapter," I remember that is exactly what my tech said about the new unit.

The service manager mentioned that there is a high cost of disposing the tanks too. They cant just throw them in the dumpster, some one has to come by and pick them up for disposal. The pictures that I got were from 2 that were lying outside for 6 months he said.

Anyway, I am dropping the car tomorrow morning for replacement so I will update as we go

What if you just don't fill the tank all the way up?? That should alleviate the majority of the problem.... right?

You mean treat the symptom , NOT the cause. Makes no sense to me :crazy:

I guess you could do that pending repair, BUT I would certainly hope that IF you had the problem, you'd get it fixed.

Anyone know the cost if MB does not step up and pay the parts and/or labor?? I've seen $3000 plus?? :eek:

yup i have heard this, i think mb usa not taking this seriously http://imagemines.co.cc/potter/34/g/mad2.gif

I talked to a tech that I know. He works for the dealer that did the sending unit campaign on my 04 E55. He's going to talk to his service manager about replacing whatever needs to be done on my vehicle since they preformed the work and he knows that I take good care of the car. He would hate to see it burn up.

same thing just happened to me yesterday i got the smell.. i checked under the inspection cover to find a pool of gas. i was driving on the highway right after i filled up only to about a quarter tank. mercedes says they wont fix it. i dont know if i was part of the recall in 2008 because i just bought the car last year. but it is listed under the hood on the recall campaign sticker. im pissed. any suggestions as to what i should replace??
https://mbworld.org/forums/members/k...-img-1202.html

UPDATE-
 

The car is fixed and no gas smell. They even left a full tank of gas in it. Here are the part numbers.

211-470-36-94 Auxiliary PU I guess this is the fuel pump
211-470-38-94 Sender Unit
211-471-05-79 Seal ring (x2)

Thats a different number than you have for the sender unit.

How much $$$$ did this come out to?

$$$$ = none
 

The dealer covered it for me.

I used the information from this forum to talk to the service manager. I took the approach of that I knew they could not just fix stuff without going through proper channels. I relayed to them that I knew there was a recall on the sending units for earlier model years and that my car seemed like it was doing the same thing. I took it to them for verification, the tech opened the cover and saw fuel, no CEL codes and supposedly checked the seal at the evaporator inlet. SM agreed to replace fuel pump and sending unit on the spot. They had to order parts, offered me a loaner which I declined and took the car home to sit in my garage until parts came in. I took it back, got the loaner for the day and picked up my car after work.

And to boot, they even had a full tank of gas in for me.:)

And the story goes on....
 

Well, new fuel sending unit in place but the fuel gauge was not reading properly. I put a few hundred miles on it and noticed the gauge still over 3/4 tank. Filled it and it took 10.25 gallons.

Back to the dealer today, said the unit was bad and replaced it again, and I got another full tank of gas:rolf:

This is crazy

2005 E55 - Stock, 55k Miles

Hopefully I can get some help.....

Recap of what's been done so far (see below)... As well, the dealer is now stumped. The only thing they can come up with is the type of fuel I use (Costco) may have additives that are causing excess pressure to build in conjunction with the Arizona heat???? MB noted to use Shell and or Chevron. Just filled up with Chevron, I'll see how this goes. Any HELP would be greatly appricated!!!

What's been done so far:
- Pressure test tank, both via Star and smoke test (both negative)
- Both fuel pumps are great, no leaks or signs of leaking
- New charcoal canister via MB dealer (free as this was not the problem), canister was "soaked" with fuel per tech.
- Smell comes when tank is any any level, but when it's hot outside and lots of stop and go driving.
- Smell comes from passenger side wheel well and in the cabin
- No puddles or any sign of fuel anywhere only the smell of it

Never top off a Mercedes, if your canister was soaked you are over filling the tank. Your canister is most likely soaked again and as the tank heats durring the day and the air in the tank expands, it vents through the gas "soaked" canister producing the smell.

When fueling, stop when it clicks off the first time, do not put any more fuel in. This is very very common and yes the canister is in the pass wheel well.
I am surprised the dealer did not tell you how canisters become soaked, speaks volumes as to their lack of expertise.

Agreed. I've never topped off. That's the strange thing, the smell happens at all levels i.e. full or 1/4 tank. As well,it could smell after a fuel fill up or a week later. The only common piece is the outside temp being hot.

I have the same exact issue. Leaking from the little plastic part of the unit.. I just ordered a new unit.

Attachment 380991

How funny that on the main page of the forum, you have the recall for diesels where the fuel filter is failing and causing leaks. But wont acknowledge this on the W211 where its happening as well.

What year cars or how old are they?

I've read about recalls on other brands of cars due to minute amounts of fuel vapour leaking out through fuel lines that weren't sufficiently impermeable. Geesh...

All,

I had this issue with mine and thanks to my extended warranty the dealer replaced the entire gas tank and the drivers side (which was leaking) fuel sending unit.

My co-pay/dectuable was $75.

Dodged a bullet there!

Alex

is the TSB from 2008 still active? i've started smelling fuel in my car randomly... i dont have warranty and I'm at about 48,000miles...

Has anybody in the NJ has success with a dealer on this ? I've spoke with 2 service centers. The one that performed the campaign hasn't heard anything about this and the other said they'd have to charge a diagnostic fee and can't guarantee they'll get MB USA to pay for it or warranty it. I think the dealer that performed the campaign should pay for it.

Talked to MB USA today and they were no help either. All they said was to talk to the dealer service manager directly. I'm going to start researching about changing all the o-rings and seals and possibily the sending unit/pump. Does anyone have the procedure from the WIS they can send me ?

+1 I called my dealer today and they told me to kick rocks. I even called MBUSA and they told me they couldn't do anything about the issue until I had the dealer diagnose it for a fee and even then there would be no guarantee of them covering the job to fix it.

I too have the gas flooded driver side unit. The passenger side seems un-affected.

Everyone having problems needs to file a NHTSA report. They take this seriously they just need enough complaints to follow up on this. I'd stress the heavy smell of leaking fuel and even liquid fuel spilling out onto the ground.

Wonder if we can light a fire under the right EPA ass about all this fuel evaporating into the atmosphere and killing all the poor trees or whatever gets those nutjobs riled up.

fuel smell
 

add me to the list as well. I have an 06 e55 with about 67K miles. Came out to the car on Monday and it wreaked of fuel. My 6 year old complained of the smell. I took the rear seat out and low and behold the drives side unit has a puddle of raw fuel on top. I called my service advisor today to see what they had to say. They basically told me that they have never heard of this issue before and that I would need to bring the car in for a diagnosis. Of course they charge a fee for that. I also asked them to check the recall history on my VIN to see if the 2008 recall campaign was ever performed on my car. they told me that there was only one recall that applied to my VIN and that it had already been done. The recall had nothing to due with the Emissions/fuel system. Is the sending unit replacement straightforward? Is it something I can do myself?

I did submit a complaint with the NHTSA as well.

Well after a month with no gas smell after repacing the sending unit and the seals ..It's returned on the drivers side after filling the car up today. I pulled the seat up and sure enough gas was puddled up. My only problem is it's not coming from the seal or the sending unit. After drying everything up. The gas was draining downward out from the body of the car down to the seal. I know I quit pumping gas on the first click at the gas station which we've done since we replaced everything. So I don't think we over filled the tank. Any ideas what might cause this and where it might be coming from?
__________________

i don't remember if i posted my experience with my e55 but i too had the gas leak and went into the dealer knowing about the recall. they performed the recall which was that tiny metal sleeve inserted into the fuel pump and i went straight to the gas station to fill up and it puddled up with fuel again. back to the dealer and they said they couldn't do anything else. i reminded them that the recall stated if the pump was already cracked then replacement would be neccesary under recall. dealer said they searched high and low but my vin does not fall into the window. i had no choice but to pay for a new fuel pump and fuel filter. i called mbusa and had them send me the actual recall notice. i took it back down to the dealer and talked to the main tech boss and had him read it for himself. they refunded me all my money after a few weeks of reminding them. as for my car, it still leaks. i have now discovered that the leak is coming from a vent connection that is on top of the tank and in between both pumps. i only put in 3/4's of a tank and its been fine with no smell. waiting to see if it becomes a recall. hope this helps anyone.

Add me to the list.

2004 E500 w/ 120k miles, daily beater. Filled up last night, and my garage had a very strong fuel odor this morning. So much so, that I pulled it outside and was afraid to drive it today. I'll pull the rear seat when I get a chance and see what's what. Times like this I'm very happy to have options in the driveway....

Add My Car to The List
 

Let me preface this post by stating that I am normally a lurker and not a poster, however the issue I describe below alarmed me, as most of you know "gasoline vapors and heat don't mix well". Whether this issue is a time bomb or merely an annoyance can be discussed ad nauseum and to be frank I don't want to be part of that discussion. Below is my story so far for what it is worth.

I purchased a new to me E55 on Tuesday this week, last night I filled it with gas, later that evening I got an extremely strong smell of gas from rear drivers side wheel arch. I arrived home, checked online and discovered this thread.

That evening I called MB USA I suggested that the issue may be related to the fuel sender under the rear seat and should be covered under their recall, I was advised by them that my VIN is not part of their voluntary emissions recall campaign (# 2008-029991) even though my model year (2006), my model (E55) and my engine family (6mbxv05.5lbi) are ALL listed in their 2008 filing with the EPA for their voluntary service campaign for this vehicle.
They suggested I bring the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostics.

I did so this morning. The dealer advised that the fuel sender part number that I had in my vehicle did not match that for the recall. The issue was a leaking O ring in the fuel sender, the dealer replaced the O ring at a cost of $305 ($250 labor, the balance tax and O ring). Also the dealer very graciously said they will proactively attend to the "nipple" on the fuel sender by inserting the metal grommet free of charge next week (they did not have the part(s) in stock).
I later today called MB USA again advised them that I felt this issue should be covered under their recall notice, they have escalated my concerns to a case manager who will call me within 24 hours.

I will update as I have news.

Thank you for your post. Interested to see how MBUSA treats this matter in your case.

Everyone needs to keep calling and complaining, but MOST IMPORTANTLY FILE COMPLAINTS WITH NHTSA/EPA. This is who can force Mercedes to actually fix this for us.

Funny how companies try to fix recalls with .02 cent pieces of metal and send you on your way. Just like Mercedes is doing here, and like Toyota did for sticky gas pedals. Its BS and emissions is a huge deal on a federal level. Some of you people in California need to start calling the crazies in your state. They'll have Mercedes buy us all a new E63 or something crazy the way that state works. lol

Just tore into mine to see what's what. As fuel level decreased, so did the smell. Passenger side is bone dry but driver side looked like this! Notice the pool of fuel on top? There was also a pool that you couldn't see, collected at the top of that picture, but outside of the assembly. Also, that large black retaining collar that keeps the unit in place was loose. I put all my might into tightening it as much as I could, and got a good 1/4 full rotation. Hopefully, that loose collar was my source.

Now, it off to the gas station to fill her back up and look to see where the leak is coming from. Will report back...

Attachment 380438

Wow.. If you could move it with your hands..then it was pretty loose. Probably because your seal has broken down and allowed it to come loose. As dirty as everything is there it looks like your whole unit is being submerged in gas. You might want to get a extra big size of channel locks and see if you can tighten it just a little more for safety sakes. This ended up being the same problem I had in my earlier post. After I replaced my sending unit I didn't get the ring back on quite tight enough and it finally loosened up enough to start leaking again.

If you do end up having to replace the seal. Be extremely careful removing the fuel line . It's hard to come off and you can break the plastic nipple off really easy. Go ahead and buy a new hose clamp too. Be sure and pay attention exactly how your sending unit is set in place. If you put it back in a different position ( even a 1/2 inch) It can cause your fuel gauge switch(Float) to hang on the wiring in the tank.

Ok, so mine is leaking still. From what I can tell, it's coming from the seal, of whatever that unit is in my pic, with the blue dot on it, and the connector. I guess that's the fuel sending unit? Where the the two pieces of plastic join, the appears to be a gasket there that's leaking. It's hard to tell since, it's not shooting out, but I dried that area and that's where it's getting wet again.

If so, can just that part be replaced, or does that whole fuel pump need to come out and replaced as a whole? I'm not quite sure what I'm looking at here.

Here's a close up pic, of where I believe it's leaking from. I dried that white plastic area pretty well, but you can see it glistening again after a minute or so...

Attachment 380437

Only way to know for sure is to do a smoke test. Cost me $80 at a indi shop.
I know its my fuel filter but my tech dont bother with the part and live with the Check Engine Light. I only fill mine up 3/4 full now and cleared the code.

I'll fix it when i feel like saving up $ 386

Add me to the list, mine though back when the car had about 50k miles on it. Many seals, Many different pickups and it still leaked. At the end of of the day, mercedes paid the dealer to replace the fuel tank as long as I paid for the part (car was not under warranty) After they got the factory tank out, close inspection found that there was a tank molding issue up by where the threads and pump mount to the plastic tank.

How much did paying for the tank set you back?

I was monkeying around with this again today and now I'm starting to believe that the problem with mine is the gasket beneath the large black hold-down collar. I sopped up all the fuel again and dried everything as much as possible. I then started the car and watched, and watched, and watched, and rev'd and watched, and rev'd, and watched...you get the point. It didn't leak at all, nothing, zippy, nada. The fuel line and nipple are dry, and without cracking or dry rotting, so I don't think it's that. My working theory is that with the tank full, or near full, fuel is sloshing around in the tank and leaking out at that gasket. Since it's not leaking at idle, and the fuel smell is greatly increased after a fill-up, I think (hope) that I'm correct. This would also be the reason that as I burn off fuel, the smell seems to dissipate. I'm assuming it's because the fuel level isn't high enough to reach that egress, when sloshing around.

So, I'm going to go ahead and order a gasket, for both sides. And for now, try to run the car with no more than 1/2 tank.


Guys, since checking is such an easy thing to do, I suggest EVERYONE take 10 minutes and do so, if you haven't already. It takes 30 seconds to remove the seat, 10 seconds to lift up the sound deadening material, and another 45 seconds to remove the 6 or 7 screws holding the caps on, with a cordless screw gun. As you can see, there are 2 wiring harnesses down there on the driver side, so all it would take is one of those to short, and arc, and it's boom city.

Were you trying to tighten the ring by hand? Not sure what kinda angle you can get at it but use a wide flat tip screw driver or pry bar or similar and a hammer and go around the ring giving it light/moderate taps to tighten it up more if you feel that you want it tightened more. Trick is to keep going around in circles with where you hammer it to spread the load around. Took off and replaced many of these rings in this fashion.

May wanna just throw a new seal at it if there's one under the assembly as its easy enough to replace since you have an access port and don't have to drop the tank. Unscrew the ring, lift out the assembly, slip on the new seal and put it back together. You've been in there enough times you can do the whole job in probably a half hour being careful and for only a few dollars. Would also give you a chance to examine the molding of the tank for the imperfections people have mentioned.

The green gasket is like $25
I replaced mine but that did not solve the problem

Here are the part numbers that solved my gas leak smell.

Not surprisingly MB USA called me on Friday and restated that my VIN was not covered and they would not pay for any necessary repairs.

Boy after reading through this thread, and not expericencing this issue myself (knock on wood)...and after asking my certified MB Indy how many of these he has seen (low)...maybe it would be nice to see a Poll to see how many have ahd the issues, vs. those that have not??

I don't know how to do that...anybody want to set one up? Worth it?

Talked to my MB tech and had him take a peek at it. We're still not 100% on where the leak is coming from. Might be the gasket, might be a crack in the unit, both of which are common. That pump/sender/filter is a maintenance item, that's supposed to be swapped at 65k miles, which I did not do. So, I think I'm just gonna swap it for a new unit to be safe. Since the filter is part of that unit, probably not a bad idea. The R/R on it, shouldn't be too bad.

The filter is built into the assembly and not replaceable on its own? :eek::crazy: The Germans do a lot of things right, but some things very, very wrong. The filter and pump should have been made to be independently replaceable in my opinion.

Yessur....

All one peice. Really guys, check yours. Even if you don't smell fuel. I promise you, if it takes more than 7 minutes, you need to turn in your man card.

Those of you who had the tank replaced under extended warranty...which warranty companies did you have? I have NAC and they've already paid to replace the sending unit, but the dealer just called to inform me the whole tank needs replacing and they're just waiting on NAC approval.

Ok...really? How many cars do you guys know off (especially of the 100k variety) that have to have a complete friggin gas tank replaced?:mad:

This sucks...Come on MB...Man Up!

I replaced mine at my own expense of $1K at the dealer. No assistance whatsoever despite my having been a loyal customer. I even removed the seat for them and showed them how it was leaking fuel around the plastic sending unit. I kept my old part, thinking I could JB weld it and possibly sell it cheaply to someone who is in a bind. Really a poor design, and an even poorer job at my local dealer. They knew I was upset and as a result did not even send me the post repair survey.

Dealer called, NAC adjuster came out and they've authorized my gas tank replacement. Will be interested to see the final invoice.

mine is a 2007 e63 with 117k miles. Just had tank and sending units changed... 3116.76

Just filled the car with gas (first time since the "repair"), the smell is back, now I am pissed, I spent $300 for a new O ring to fix the issue?

By O Ring, I hope you dont mean the Green rubber thing?

By O ring I mean Part Number 211-471-05-79 SEAL RING, which is described as Fuel Sending Unit Seal. I don't know what the "Green rubber thing" is.

Well, I've noticed that my garage smelled of fuel after I filled up, but it would eventually go away. I'm also having a hesitation issue that came up within the last week or so. Maybe the fuel sender is responsible for both?

so i been throwing a p0456 code in my 320

i have that intense gas smell at fill up, most likely i assume this is what it would be? are the parts the same for sending unit in all w211? i would assume that the fuel setup might be more intense to compensate for the difference in power plants between the two cars.

but would this cause me to throw this code?

read below.....
http://www.obd-codes.com/p0456

Urge.....a 3rd time
 

I had my fuel pump replaced the first time when gas was leaking under my backseat. I had the fuel pump AND the gas tank replaced months again for a second time when gas was leaking under my car on the drivers side. Yesterday, My car dies on me while I am on the highway....luckily traffic was not bad and there was a big pullover area. I had it towed to an indy shop.....the shop showed me that it was the fuel pump and the pump break area. They think it was from the pump not properly installed or seated, which is why once in a awhile I would smell gas. I have an extended warranty and the warranty would not pay for a new pump unless the work was done at the dealer. Well, I don't trust the dealer and I want the work done right. So I had the work done at the indy and I paid it myself. I have my kids in the backseat and it pisses me off that I continue to have this problem.

Another reason why I did not want it done at the dealer is because EVERY time I take my car to the dealer the same problem that brought me to dealer comes back a few weeks later. However, this does not happen when I bring it to the Indy shop.

I'll beat the horse again and say FILE A NHTSA REPORT. The fed can and WILL force Mercedes arm on this with enough complaints.

Both the right and left side fuel sender units are bad on my cls55. My friend who is a Mercedes tech is changing them for me. The part numbers that I was told were 2114705194 and 2114701794.

Does anyone know of an online source to purchase these parts? Even with a discount, the dealership seems expensive.

Thank you

I appreciate it.

haha..

I just googled "mercedes 2114701794" and clicked a few times.


I have no experience with that parts seller at all.

Look at what i found
I think the recall is coming to fruition???

Attachment 380262

Heres the link...
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/defects/index.cfm

Do a search for MB E55 with your year and you will see in the pull down menu there is a investigation for the fuel tank and fuel pump assembly.
Ive been told by a reliable source that Mercedes is stocking up on these parts big time
Ive also heard that people who had paid out of pocket before hand will get reimbursed by MBUSA.

Note that NHTSA has not completed their investiagtion yet. So no freebies till they come to a conclusion.
Can anyone else verify this? Or am i dreaming?
This is the one reason I'm contemplating selling my car. I dont want a bomb LOL

I would have thought this would have made bigger news? Should my post be made in its own thread?

good catch! new thread?

I wonder how much will cost fix it in your own pocket ?

New Gas Tank, fuel pump,
and fuel sender plus install. At least two to three grand.

The NHTSA Action Number is:

PE12001


...in case you can't get the website to show the pulldown menus. Looks like a number of complaints are related to this research. It would make sense for anyone who has dealt with this issue to file a formal complaint against this number. The more cases they have to review, the more likely it seems that they will be able to force MBZ to take action.

Good research!!

-G

ouch....

This is good news as I've had both repalced at the cost of the extended warranty but I've noticed the last few weeks on startup I get a gas smell and it goes away after a while. I guess I need to pull my seat and check under the covers for pooling fuel again.

check your codes as well. my car was throwing a faulty purge valve code in the charcoal canister which would cause a gas smell sometimes. my car is currently at the dealership having a diapragm replaced for gas smell as well

No CEL for any emissions or fuel related issues.

Date Investigation Opened : January 23, 2012
Date Investigation Closed : Open

This is what we have been waiting for! Everyone that has had this problem and hasn't reported it yet PLEASE REPORT IT!!!! They are looking at this issue and the more cases shown the better. You may even be able to get some money refunded on previous repairs you had to come out of pocket on.

REPORT YOUR PROBLEMS, THEY ARE LISTENING!!!!

I went ahead and made another thread as well as I feel many regulars may not check this thread often at all anymore as its the same old issues being discussed over and over again.

COMPLAINTS CAN BE FILED HERE: https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/

I sent an email to the NHTSA with a link to this thread informing them of the wealth of information and detailed pictures on the problem they are currently investigating. I should have an email response by end of the following business day according to the website. I'll post up what they send me.

Hopefully they see these pics and stories and will see that these fuel lines are coming off spraying fuel all over in some cases or pissing all over the garage after being parked. Talk about a fire and explosion hazard! Also good to have confirmation that they were made aware of this information if god forbid something terrible were to happen if and they did not take action.

this problem is not only on W211 E Classes btw
the CLS and one C55 I know of have this problem too

Your Complaint Information has been successfully submitted.

Your Confirmation Number (ODI Number) is: 10450027

Hopefully those like me who paid out of pocket will be refunded. Now my 4matic is starting to get this gas smell after fill up. At least i have CPO through 2013 on this car and will be covered by MB.

I just filled my complaint

Here's the summary of the ongoing investigation:

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/pr...&model_yr=2006

Read this nine page letter to the General Manager of Engineering Services for MBUSA from the NHTSA.

Looks pretty formal
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs...2001-50231.pdf

As of Feb14, 20 AMG Complaints were filed and 50 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire were received from E Class Owners in general
All 2003-2008 W211 E Classes are involved in this report.
Potentially 8,130 AMG vehicles could be affected.

So acc to the letter MBUSA has to produce the following documentation:
Production Report: The number of Subject Vehicles MB has manufactured in the USA.
Verify if the vehicle was included in the emissions campaign back in 2008 (notice they use the word emissions?)

Request #2 Data Report All reports/claims received by MBUSA regarding this issue incl lawsuits, property damage, fires, etc...

Warranty Data Total count of claims paid by Mercedes incl emissions recall in 2008.

Mercedes also has to submit Search Criteria used to determine to fix the problem in warranty data report.
They also have to issue a draft letter they are planning to send out to the dealer network to address this problem.
They also have to produce a detailed list of modifications to remedy the problem.

March 16,2012 is the deadline Mercedes has to produce this report to the Office of Defects Division. They can request a extension five (5) days beforehand but still have to provide a partial response.

Only 50 complaints??? We need to get every member on the board that has this happened to, to file a complaint as well!!! Wonder if i should forward the letter to my service mgr where i got the fuel sending unit fixed on my dime!

Gotta remember only a percentage of people that have this issue actually take the time/know how to/and actually go through with filing a complaint. 50 reports probably means this is happening to hundreds and hundreds of cars.

I do like that the AMG models are specifically mentioned and seems they actually do understand what is going on here. I'm pretty happy with what I am seeing from NHTSA. If your reading this keep up the good work people! :y

Your Complaint Information has been successfully submitted.
Your Confirmation Number (ODI Number) is: 10450105.

I just got my response email from NHTSA from my email last night directing them to this thread in case they were not aware of it.

Notification of Case Change (All times are GMT-0500)

Workspace: NHTSA Hotline Center Case: Detailed info about ongoing safety investigation. NHTSA ACTION NUMBER PE12001 Case Number: 429296
Date: 03/02/2012 Time: 17:21:42 Creation Date: 03/01/2012 Creation Time: 21:34:31
Description:
Entered on 03/02/2012 at 17:21:41 EST (GMT-0500) by TBent:
Thank you for contacting the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Vehicle Safety Hotline Information Center.

We have received your email and it has been forwarded to the appropriate NHTSA subject matter expert. However, if you need additional information on our services please feel free to contact us at 1-888-327-4236.

Thank you,

NHTSA.dot.gov Response Team

Disclaimer: "This response is for information purposes only and does not constitute an official communication of the U.S. Department of Transportation. For an official response, please write U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE, West Building, Washington, DC 20590.

Entered on 03/01/2012 at 21:34:30 EST (GMT-0500) by nhtsa.webmaster@dot.gov:
Sender Name: <edited out>
Sender Email: <edited out>
Subject: Detailed info about ongoing safety investigation. NHTSA ACTION NUMBER PE12001
Comments: Regarding: NHTSA ACTION NUMBER PE12001 Date Investigation Opened : January 23, 2012 Date Investigation Closed : Open I'm a member of an online forum that has learned that an investigation has been opened regarding fuel system leaks on the 2003-2006 Mercedes E55. I would like to pass along a very large wealth of information with detailed accounts and detailed pictures of the problem currently being investigated. This has been a great concern of the community of enthusiasts that own these cars as MANY have found puddles of fuel under their vehicles after being parked as well as a garage full of gasoline fumes that appear suddenly. The ongoing discussion about this issue can be found at: https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...all-bombs.html Can I please have confirmation of receipt of this information and the confirmation that this information will be passed onto those investigating this problem currently emailed to me at <email edited out> I thank you for your assistance in this safety concerning matter. <my contact info edited out>
Contact Information:
Contact Source: Owner