Replacing the Fuel Pump in 5 Minutes! | BMW E46 323i

Today I’m swapping the fuel pump on a 2000 BMW 323i. The vehicle has been experiencing fuel starvation, engine stumbling, and even some instances in which the engine has died. This is the factory fuel pump and has seen over 200,000 miles over 20 years, so I'm impressed it has lasted this long. Expect to pay between $300 - $400 for parts, with the OEM fuel pump being the big ticket item for this repair. There are cheaper aftermarket fuel pump options, but I cannot vouch for the quality of these products. Not to say that the aftermarket alternatives won't work, I just recommend that you do your research before purchasing so you avoid a premature failure that leaves you stranded.

This procedure is for a 2000 BMW 323i, but it will essentially be the same for all late 1990's and early 2000's 3 series (E46) BMWs. The fuel pump is located under the rear seat on the passenger side, and is covered by rubber and a metal plate secured by 4 10mm nuts.

E46 Models:
316i / 316ci (1999 - 2005)
318i / 318ci (1998 - 2006)
320i / 320ci (1998 - 2006)
323i / 323ci (1998 - 2000)
325i / 325ci (2001 - 2006)
328i / 328ci (1998 - 2006)
330i / 330ci (2000 - 2006)
M3 (2000 - 2006)

In my case, there was a non-removable hose clamp that secured the rubber fuel line to the fuel pump housing. I had to cut this off and replace it with a new hose clamp, but newer E46s should have a snap fitting that pinches off of the pump housing. If this is the case with your vehicle, you will not need the small hose clamp but I recommend that you pick one up just in case as they're very cheap and will save you time if you do end up needing it (link below).

Overall, this is an easy repair that will take less than an hour to complete. Please leave a comment if you have any questions, thanks for watching!

Parts:
1. BMW Fuel Pump
- 323i/ci, 325i/ci, 328i/ci, 330i/ci PN: 16146766942
- https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-b...
- M3 PN: 16142229684
- https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-b...
2. Fuel Pump Gasket (PN: 16111184084)
- https://www.ecstuning.com/b-victor-re...
3. Small hose clamp
- https://www.autozone.com/collision-bo...

Tools:
1. 10 mm Socket + Ratchet / Impact
2. Large Flat Head Screw Driver
3. Mallet
4. Cutters (for non-removable hose clamp)

Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Tire Kickers, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Tire Kickers assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Tire Kickers recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Tire Kickers, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Tire Kickers.