Jonn investigated a fuel leak on our 2000 BMW Z3. The vehicle was raised on the ramp for inspection; while the tank was dry, staining indicated fuel had previously run down from the top. The car was lowered, and access was gained to the fuel sender behind the driver’s seat. Upon removing the panel, fuel was found sitting on top of the sender unit. The area was dried, and the ignition was cycled to check for leaks, but nothing was immediately apparent.
Fuel was then added to the tank, and after 7 litres, a leak became visible around the sender seal, making a road test unnecessary. A hose was connected to the outlet, and the in-tank pump was used to transfer the fuel into a container. While attempting to remove the securing ring for the sender unit, it was found to be loose. The sender was removed, and the seal was found to have hardened. A new seal has been ordered.
