How to remove and install the fuel tank on BMW M3?

Fuel tanks in BMW E30 and E36 models are located under the car, either behind the trunk or below the back seat area, where the tank on these models is partitioned into two parts to accommodate the driveshaft. Fuel movement between these sections is facilitated by a jet action pump and fuel pressure regulator driven back by the fuel returns it through a venturi effect which obviates need for a mechanical pump. The procedures for removing and installing fuel tanks are model-specific as shown in this example: For E30 models, these steps include draining of all fuel from it; removing rear seat bottom cushion and related components; disconnecting hoses and electrical connections; releasing entire fuel tank etc. Finally, reassemble all parts. While for E36 (except Z3), they entail draining all fuel; taking off rear seat bottom cushion; disconnecting hoses & electric connections; blocking off fuelling lines; detaching heat shield & parking brake cables followed by taking out filler hose then lowering tank with installation being done in reverse order. In relation to Z3, removal process usually includes emptying it of any remaining gas; doing away with rear axle assembly from vehicle's underside; breaking earth straps including ventilation lines attached thereto besides other measures as might be necessary while lowering down as well as raising up tank so that finally it can come off after dropping completely down . Once installed, hoses must be reconnected correctly avoiding kinking or sharp bends in addition to ensuring proper routing of electrical items among them. Trying to start your car without filling up gasoline could lead to bad effects on its pump.

Genuine BMW M3 Fuel Tank

Gas Tank

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8 Fuel Tanks found

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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16111182490
$845.32 MSRP: $1042.83
You Save: $197.51 (19%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Replaces: 16-11-1-182-501, 16-11-1-181-363
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1995-1996 BMW M3 | Coupe(E36)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16119503055
$977.06 MSRP: $1259.33
You Save: $282.27 (23%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2021-2025 BMW M3 | 6 Cyl 3.0 L GAS
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BMW M3 Metal Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16111177983
$1650.16 MSRP: $2035.73
You Save: $385.57 (19%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1988-1991 BMW M3 | Coupe(E30)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16112283493
$1105.03 MSRP: $1424.27
You Save: $319.24 (23%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2008-2013 BMW M3 | Convertible(E93), Coupe(E92), Sedan(E90)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16111183062
$845.32 MSRP: $1042.83
You Save: $197.51 (19%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1997-1999 BMW M3 | Convertible(E36), Coupe(E36), Sedan(E36)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16111182501
$845.32 MSRP: $1042.83
You Save: $197.51 (19%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Replaced by: 16111182490
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1995-1996 BMW M3 | Coupe(E36)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank
Part Number: 16117294608
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2015-2018 BMW M3 | Sedan(F80)
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BMW M3 Plastic Fuel Tank With Left Sensor
Part Number: 16112229736
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Fuel Tank
- Position: Driver Side
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2001-2006 BMW M3 | Convertible(E46), Coupe(E46)

BMW M3 Fuel Tank

The BMW M3 Fuel Tank is the safe storehouse that makes performance driving possible by storing fuel and ensuring a regular supply to the engine. Inside the Fuel Tank, an electric pump and gauge sender are completely submerged to maintain pressure for the rev-happy M3 engine and to indicate fuel level on the dashboard. During intense cornering, internal baffles control the slosh, keeping the pickup submerged and minimizing noise. Meanwhile, the tank seals vented to the EVAP system capture vapors. Over the years, the BMW Fuel Tank was refined for every M3, offering stamped steel tanks or lighter HDPE plastic ones. Steel components are tough but can rust and leak. BMW plastic components are resistant to corrosion but can crack due to heat and road impacts. As you can see, each option has its own durability compromises. However, both types ride their way under the rear floor and are secured by sturdy tying straps to face rain, salt, and debris. Each factory-tested Fuel Tank comes with a brand-new locking ring and seal to ensure a tight fit. The Fuel Tank ensures that every BMW M3 has uninterrupted fuel flow for quiet operation and enhanced safety on the street and on the track.

If you are looking for OEM BMW M3 Fuel Tank, we highly recommend to shop with us. Not only do we offer budget friendly prices, but we also provide fast delivery. In addition, we have a hassle-free return policy on all genuine BMW M3 Fuel Tank that come backed by the manufacturer's warranty.

BMW M3 Fuel Tank Parts Questions & Experts Answers

Plastic Fuel Tank
16111182490
Q:
How to remove and install the fuel tank on BMW M3?
Posted by Luisu U.
A:
Fuel tanks in BMW E30 and E36 models are located under the car, either behind the trunk or below the back seat area, where the tank on these models is partitioned into two parts to accommodate the driveshaft. Fuel movement between these sections is facilitated by a jet action pump and Fuel Pressure Regulator driven back by the fuel returns it through a venturi effect which obviates need for a mechanical pump. The procedures for removing and installing fuel tanks are model-specific as shown in this example: For E30 models, these steps include draining of all fuel from it; removing rear seat bottom cushion and related components; disconnecting hoses and electrical connections; releasing entire fuel tank etc. Finally, reassemble all parts. While for E36 (except Z3), they entail draining all fuel; taking off rear seat bottom cushion; disconnecting hoses & electric connections; blocking off fuelling lines; detaching heat shield & parking brake cables followed by taking out filler hose then lowering tank with installation being done in reverse order. In relation to Z3, removal process usually includes emptying it of any remaining gas; doing away with rear axle assembly from vehicle's underside; breaking earth straps including ventilation lines attached thereto besides other measures as might be necessary while lowering down as well as raising up tank so that finally it can come off after dropping completely down . Once installed, hoses must be reconnected correctly avoiding kinking or sharp bends in addition to ensuring proper routing of electrical items among them. Trying to start your car without filling up gasoline could lead to bad effects on its pump.
Answered by BMW Parts Specialist Armando / Apr 18, 2022