I'm looking at a 04 e46 SULEV 325i w/145k miles. Great price. (Under $2k) Is there a work around for the dreaded fuel pump failure sure to come, or should I walk away?
I wouldn't walk away - I would jog.
I'm from Europe so I had no idea what SULEV is, but after a quick round of Google to find out what it is I'm pretty sure I wouldn't buy one. So many horror stories came up 😂
Personally I wouldn't buy it. Having to replace the fuel tank when the pump stops working is a bit rediculous.
SULEV=super low emissions vehicle. It was BMW’s effort to produce a very clean car. Dismal failure IMHO. As noted the entire fuel tank must be replaced when (and not if) the fuel pump goes. Run away from this car. Really.
run as fast as you can.
I had a customer that needed a pump and was out of warranty. Ended up swapping the motor and system to non-SULEV as it was cheaper then replacing the tank, also made future maintenance and servicing much easier and cheaper.
Last edited by legoman67; 11-18-2018 at 01:53 PM.
Current:
- 09 335i MSport, FBO.
- 98 Euro M3, Estoril Blue
- 04 M3, Carbon Black, 6 Speed Coupe
- 06 M5, Black on Black, Full Leather.
- 73 3.0CS, Tagia Green, 5 speed M30b35 converted
Ex's: 1984 325e, 1988 325IX, 1992 525I, 1995 540i/6, 2002 330i, 2005 330xi, 1992 850i, 2003 330i #1, 2003 330i #2, 2002 330ci, 2004 330ci, 2007 328CI, 2007 335i, 2001 M3, 2006 M5 6 speed
you can just install a non sulev tank and pump. there are some emission hoses that need to be modified. but it works.
the purpose of the system was to eleminate the evaporative emissions from the vehicle.
there is really not alot difference than a reg e46, valve cover and related parts, gas tank.
Level 1 Certified BMW tech.
I have a 2004 325Ci M56 SULEV 129,000 miles. Recently swapped out DISA valve, upper/lower intake boots, cleaned out idle control valve. Replaced oil filter housing gasket. Replaced bushings awaiting now alignment. I'll say this car rides great. It gets up in speed on the highway. Great city driving. Cold starts without a hiccup since said replacements. Paid $3000 for the car four months ago (August). So far no regrets
2004 BMW 325i sulev fuel pump - Replaced sulev tank with 50,000 miles 325i, the complete car is up for sale if anyone needs parts, selling only complete car, clean title, trans just went out, car starts and motor is strong. Please message me if anyone is interested. FYI..the tank will take the whole day to replace. Thanks
I just did My 2002 325i fuel pump, replaced today in about 22 degree's...Sorry for the cussin if u could all hear me?
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