Slow fuel filling
 

Hey guys,

Ever since I got it, my 2005 X5 3.0lt diesel has this issue. It is impossible to fill it up, with the pump set at anything more than the minimum. It takes for ever to fill it up. And please do not tell me to try another pump, it has happened in every gas station I've visited in two countries! LoRL

What are some common causes of this problem? What should I look for?

Many thanks

Almost 60 views and no one can point me to where the breather is for the tank? Or give me any idea on what could cause such a slow fill up?!?!

Come on guys, I need to fix that, I can't spend 10 minutes at the pump, every time I want to fill it up.

Since it wasn't mentioned as something to rule out...have you tried not inserting the fuel pump as deep into the fuel fill pipe?

If the problem is that the fuel pump keeps kicking off...back it out some and see if that works.

I think I've tried every possible position, but I'll try it again next time I fill up. Thanks!

It sounds to be like somehow your fuel tank has built back pressure inside that is causing the fuel pumps / nozzles to cut off or only allow you to fill like you are just topping off.

I unfortunately don't know enough about the X5 yet to point you to the tank breather. However, in most BMW's I have encountered it is behind the rear fender / wheel liner. I would start by looking under the car where the filler tube is located.

Here is a link that might help point you in the right direction - just click on the images:

Fuel supply

I have the same issue once in a while. It happens when the tank is almost empty and I push the nozzle in as far as it will go. To correct the problem I take the nozzle back out for 10 or 15 seconds and then per JCL I back the nozzle out so that air can air/vapor can escape an pump that way for 15-30 seconds and then can push the nozzle in all the way and set the contro at 1 stop less fastest fill point and all is well. Usually after I have pumped a few gallons I can move to the fastest stop.

Thanks guys, I'll try all these things!

Since this has never been resolved, I am reviving this thread.

I spend some time looking in realoem.com drawings, and I can't find any ventilation pipe, from the fuel tank.

Does anybody know, if there is a ventilation pipe, and if there is one, where can I find it?

Many thanks.

Although the fuel tank is "vented"...it is not expelled to the exterior of the vehicle...modern technology and universal emission laws (OBD II) prevents that from happening.

Fumes generated from fuel are accumulated, then pumped back into the engine to be burned (usually when idling).

You'll find the fuel tank "venting" hoses and expansion tank in this diagram from realoem.com: RealOEM.com * Diagram Selection

And I believe #16 (and possibly #17, too...tubing & outlet pipe)...that are attached to the fuel filler neck (#15) which allows air into the neck and prevents a vacuum...note that if you purchase #15...based on the bracket in the diagram...#15 comes with #16 & #17:

I suggest checking for codes. The problem may be the fuel vent valve. What doesn't match up is that you have not had SES light on. I wouldn't expect the lines to clog but if that was a concern I would disconnect them at both ends and try blowing them clear first.