Sylvie Willis
The fuel filter on a 1998 Mercedes ML320 is located on top of the chassis, just behind the left rear wheel. It is fairly easy to replace, but you will need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well. Getting the lines off the fuel filter can be tricky, and it is recommended to use the correct tool to avoid damaging the fragile plastic fittings. The fuel filter is a cartridge with a type of paper that screens out dirt, rust, and other particles before they enter the fuel lines. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged, leading to difficulty in starting the vehicle and reduced engine performance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location of the fuel filter | On top of the chassis, just behind the left rear wheel |
| Fuel filter replacement | Available |
| Fuel filter symptoms | Misfires, stalling, or overall decreases in power and acceleration |
| Fuel filter replacement cost | $233 to $288 |
| Fuel filter replacement frequency | Every 30,000 miles or every two years |
| Fuel filter replacement tool | Mercedes tool, 3/4 inch hose pliers, fuel line connector removal tool |
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What You'll Learn
- The fuel filter is located on top of the chassis, behind the left rear wheel
- You need to remove the rear wheel and liner around the wheel well
- It's fairly easy, but removing the lines from the filter can be tricky
- You can use a special fuel line connector removal tool or push the connector towards the filter and pull out
- If you have the original short filter, you'll need to buy a new long filter and three new fuel lines
The fuel filter is located on top of the chassis, behind the left rear wheel
The fuel filter on a 1998 Mercedes ML320 is located on top of the chassis, behind the left rear wheel. To access it, you will need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well. It is fairly easy to access, but removing the fuel lines from the filter can be a little tricky.
One method is to push in the release buttons (one button on one connector and two on the other) and push the connector in towards the filter, then pull out. Alternatively, you can purchase a special fuel line connector removal tool. If you do not have the correct tool, you may damage the lines and have to replace them along with the filter.
Let the fuel pressure out of the lines first by starting the engine and pulling the #38 fuel pump fuse. Be prepared for about a cup of fuel to run out of the filter and lines during the change, and be sure to have an oil pan, safety glasses, latex gloves, and good ventilation.
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You need to remove the rear wheel and liner around the wheel well
To remove the rear wheel on a 1998 Mercedes ML320, you will first need to loosen the lug nuts, raise the car, and put jack stands under the car for safety. Then, you can remove the rear wheel.
To access the fuel filter on a 1998 Mercedes ML320, you will also need to remove the liner around the rear wheel well. This process will involve removing the wheel well liner clips, which are fasteners that hold the liner in place. They are usually made of plastic and can come in different sizes and forms depending on the car make and model. To remove the clips without damaging them or the surrounding area, use a flathead screwdriver or a trim removal tool. Place the tool beneath the clip's head and gently press it outward. Once all the clips have been unfastened, carefully remove the liner.
It is important to note that removing the liner may expose delicate parts of the car, such as the suspension and brakes, to potential damage from salt, moisture, and road debris. Driving without a wheel well liner can negatively impact the vehicle's performance and increase road noise and vibrations. Therefore, it is recommended to replace the liner after accessing the fuel filter.
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It's fairly easy, but removing the lines from the filter can be tricky
The fuel filter on the 1998 ML320 is on top of the chassis, just behind the left rear wheel. To access it, you'll need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well. This part of the process is fairly straightforward. However, removing the lines from the filter can be a little tricky.
The lines have fragile plastic fittings, so you must be careful not to break them or mash the release tabs too hard, or you'll need to replace them along with the filter. Some people have managed to remove the lines by pushing in the release buttons (one button on one connector and two on the other) and pushing the connector in towards the filter before pulling out. However, others have purchased a special fuel line connector removal tool for this purpose.
If you're switching from the original shorter fuel filter to the longer version, you'll definitely need new fuel lines. You'll also need to access the top of the fuel pump to change the fuel lines. To do this, you may need to remove the left rear seat and the access cover to the fuel pump.
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You can use a special fuel line connector removal tool or push the connector towards the filter and pull out
The fuel filter on the 1998 Mercedes ML320 is located on top of the chassis, just behind the left rear wheel. To access the fuel filter, you will need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well.
Now, removing the fuel line connector on a 1998 Mercedes ML320 can be a little tricky. It is important to note that the fuel lines have fragile plastic fittings, so it is recommended to use the right tool to avoid any damage.
One method is to use a special fuel line connector removal tool, which can be placed over the filter, pushed into the end of the line, and then pulled off. This tool is designed to open the clip inside the end of the line, making it easier to detach.
Alternatively, if you don't have access to the special tool, you can try using your hands. First, push the connector towards the filter and then pull it out. This method may require more force, but it is possible to do without the specialized tool.
Another approach suggested by some ML320 owners is to use pliers. Before using the pliers, it is recommended to spray the entire connector with canned air to remove any debris and then cover it with a rag. Apply Liquid Wrench between the connector and the filter nipple. Holding the connector in one hand, rotate the filter back and forth, reapplying Liquid Wrench as needed. Then, place the tips of the pliers on the green pads, squeeze the handles, and push the pliers in one direction while pulling the filter in the opposite direction.
It is important to note that the connector on the fuel filter may look different from the connectors at the fuel pump, so be sure to identify the correct connector before attempting removal. Additionally, always exercise caution and wear the necessary safety equipment when working with fuel lines and connectors.
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If you have the original short filter, you'll need to buy a new long filter and three new fuel lines
If you have the original short fuel filter on your 1998 Mercedes ML320, you will need to replace it with a new long filter. This is because the old, short filter is no longer available.
Upgrading to a long filter will require you to also replace the fuel lines. This is because the upgraded filter is much larger than the original, and the lines to the tank are short. You will need to buy three new fuel lines: one 163 470 28 64 fuel line, one 163 470 29 64 fuel line, and one 163 470 37 64 fuel line.
To replace the fuel filter and lines, you will need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well. You will also need to relieve the fuel pressure from the lines. This can be done by starting the engine and pulling the #38 fuel pump fuse. You should also have an oil pan to catch the fuel that will run out of the filter and lines during the change.
It is important to note that the lines have fragile plastic fittings. To avoid breaking them, it is recommended to use the Mercedes tool or a similar device with wider tips, such as 3/4 inch hose pliers.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel filter on the 1998 ML320 is on top of the chassis, just behind the left rear wheel.
You will need to remove the rear wheel and the liner around the wheel well. You will also need to remove the fuel lines from the filter. This can be tricky, and a special fuel line connector removal tool can be purchased.
The cost of the fuel filter itself can vary. One source lists the price of a fuel filter for a 1998 ML320 as $85.26.
In general, fuel filters can last from 20,000 to 40,000 miles or more. It is recommended to replace the filter every 30,000 miles in an older vehicle, or about every two years.
A failing fuel filter can cause difficulty starting the vehicle, especially with a cold engine. It can also trigger the "Check Engine" light. Engine performance may be affected, with potential misfires, stalling, or decreases in power and acceleration.
