FixVault

Fuel Tank

The fuel tank is made of high density polyethylene (reduced weight) layers which is manufactured to meet safety requirements.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 70 litres (18.5 gal), including a reserve capacity of 10 litres. 

A mid-chassis mounted "saddle" type tank (1) is used providing a tunnel for the driveshaft but creates two separate lower chambers.

Fig 1: Identifying Fuel Tank
G03388688Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The E60 fuel tank design reduces the potential evaporative emissions. This design reduces the number of external connections and openings by increasing the amount of "in tank" or integral components including molding the filler pipe to the tank.

The fuel tank is held in place by 2 retaining bands. The tank is secured in the middle by a plastic lug formed into the tank. All body contact points are insulated with foam or rubber.

The service access caps are located at the top of the fuel tank. The following components can be accessed from the vehicle interior:

Fig 2: Identifying Fuel Tank
G03388689Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  1. Remove towards front of vehicle

The six pin wiring harness connector is located on the right service cap. The six pin wiring harness connector has 2 wires for the fuel pump power supply and 2 wires for both fuel level sensors. The fuel feed line is connected to the left service cap with a quick release coupling.