DIY Fuel Filter B6 A4

[aalipio]

I changed my filter with the hengst brand. Now it making a loud odd buzzer sound every now n then. Anyone help me out on this? Does it go away after awhile?! Shoulda went oem -____-

Tia

A heads-up on Hengst vs. OEM. In my post #61 above I replaced my OEM with a Hengst H199WK. It fit well, had the proper number of ports etc.... however it made a hollow sounding noise every time I started the car. It was all good once up and running but that drumming sound on start-up was annoying to say the least.

So, I ordered the OEM filter 8E0-201-511-J and installed it today. All back to normal. I don't know if it was a faulty pressure regulator on the Hengst but I am pleased that my car now sounds normal on start-up again.

My advise is to stick with OEM filters for this since there is really zero difference in price anyway.

[crizo]

I appreciate the effort on the writeup, but the poster forgot to add that you MUST push the plug in(towards) the filter, press clips, and only then try to pull off the plug. Others have noted this...but this is extremely important and not in the original post.
1) push plug towards filter
2) press clips
3) pull plug off

I f'd around with this part for 20mns...gave up and brought it to the shop. I had almost destroyed the clips to the point where I needed new lines. Hope this helps someone..

[Charles.waite]

First off, Frey, awesome writeup! Between this and the bentley manual, I was able to do this swap no problem in only about an hour. Anyway props man, huge help! The fuel that came out of my filter was NASTY!

Regrettably I got the Hengst filter though and while my car started up and didn't seem to make any noise anymore, yay I thought, I get in this morning and the hollow "sea otter" sorta noise is back! My question is, should I try getting an Audi filter? I bought my Hengst one from AutohausAZ because the price was right. Should I wait it out and see if it goes away? Or is my fuel pump just screaming its dying breath?

Rowlands, I saw you had the same issue, anyone else have this problem and have it be solved by the Audi filter? I dont want to have to do this again, since its supposed to be raining all week, but I will if it will fix this problem...

[Snow White]

I appreciate the effort on the writeup, but the poster forgot to add that you MUST push the plug in(towards) the filter, press clips, and only then try to pull off the plug. Others have noted this...but this is extremely important and not in the original post.
1) push plug towards filter
2) press clips
3) pull plug off

I f'd around with this part for 20mns...gave up and brought it to the shop. I had almost destroyed the clips to the point where I needed new lines. Hope this helps someone..

Ugh, wish i would have seen this post yesterday when we were replacing mine (thought we read through the thread in it's entirety, but apparently not). Would have saved us an hour, not to mention we messed up the clips pretty bad (not to the point of needing replacement, but still pretty bad). Just thought i'd quote this so theres more of a chance that someone will read it and not make the same mistakes

[rowlands57]

30,000 miles later on the Audi filter and no problems. The Hengst never did quiet down for me and I am glad I went back to the genuine Audi filter. That noise was just too annoying for me to live with.

[Charles.waite]

30,000 miles later on the Audi filter and no problems. The Hengst never did quiet down for me and I am glad I went back to the genuine Audi filter. That noise was just too annoying for me to live with.

FFFFUUUUUU!!!!

Not what I wanted to hear, but thanks. And to think I finally got the gas smell out of my laundry room....

[Charles.waite]

Curiouser and curiouser. So get in my car to get some lunch and no noise. Start it up at the store, no noise. Get back to work and turn off and start it up a few more times, no noise. The noise was always worse in the AM, though my first start this afternoon was cold. I'll wait until tomorrow morning until I declare the problem solved though...

[dunggah]

How do you disconnect the second set of lines? I got the clips off but the set of lines going into the engine don't appear to have clips. I can't seem to pull them off either. I'm not sure if i want to try to pry it off with a flathead

Edit: N/m I figured it out. Just need to apply a little pressure with some pliers and pull. Thanks for great great DIY

[Charles.waite]

So a little update. My hengst filter is making noise again on cold starts. I'm not sure if its the filter or the fuel pump at this point, but its making the damn noise again. I might try an OEM audi filter at some point.

I need to figure out a way to do this without getting gas all over myself...

[waldo1324]

OEM all the way. From what I understand it's your pump whining.

[ringsroc]

Hey guys.
I just wanted to add my experience today with the fuel filter.
Car is an 2006 S4 with the 4.2 V8.

I called my Audi dealer and gave them my VIN to go and pick up the new filter. They gave me part # 4F0201511D... With Three outlets.
I got to my tech to install it, and found I had 4 outlets... The VW shop where I got my work done entered the VIN as well, and came up with the same 3 outlet part number....

I called the AUDI parts dept back, told them what I found, and asked what the price was for the 4 outlet one. He said they had no way of telling me without a VIN for a car that took one...
So I went to the ECS site, and found the 4 outlet part number # 8E0201511J. Then we pulled the bracket off the old one and found that was the correct number from the old one.

SO , the moral of the story is,: Even with the VIN, you may get the wrong filter. It is probably worth the time to get under the car and remove the plastic shield and bracket to read the part number off the one that is installed on the car.

Crappy cell phone pic.

[dasHotrod]

Thanks for this writeup Frey7190. Changed my fuel filter today and used this thread as a guide. Got my filter at the dealer; 3lines; $41; they looked it up with the VIN.

I couldn't figure out how to remove that plastic plug thing on the cover. After pushing and prying, I just broke it off.

Eventually left the filter in the black plastic clasp/holder thing so it wouldn't move which gave me more leverage to take the 2 lines off - had no problem with the single line. Push in on tab with a flathead screwdriver and placed a second one under the line to gently pry it off the filter simultaneously. Was a little hesistant to use pliers.

Opened up my old filter. Didn't see any sediment like others but it seemed kinda dark to me.

A couple pics if I may:










54000 miles

[ringsroc]

I couldn't figure out how to remove that plastic plug thing on the cover. After pushing and prying, I just broke it off.

These work much like a drywall anchor. The center plastic "Pin" expands the outer plastic to lock the plug in place.

So you pry the center pin out about 1/2" or so and then pry the larger ring out to remove the whole thing.
(you can pull the center pin all the way out, but it is not usually necessary, and they can be tough to get back together.)
To replace them, Keep the center pin half out, so the expansion aria is as small as possible. Then place it in the hole, and push the pin in to expand the lower part to lock it in place.

At least they are cheep if they break like yours.

[Samulis]

I did this today and it was really easy, just wanted to thank everyone for the tips and tricks. I used the 2 screw driver method and it worked like a charm. The only thing that i had trouble with was the plastic anchor/Drywall clip thing that holds the cover on. It broke apart, but it was fairly brittle. You probably don't even really need it but I'll end up ordering it since it's only like 30 cents anyway.

[sa_seahawker]

good write-up, OP...I tend to appreciate these seemingly "minor" fix DIYs. While everybody is interested in the BT builds, cosmetic upgrades, or complex electrical mods (they do excellent DIYs on those), it's the everyday things that 95% of us do that are rarely addressed.

[JK01.4.2A6]

Great writeup. Just did my daughter's '04 A4 1.8T. This saved me a lot of time and probably broken connectors. Thanks everybody!!

[amkmeco]

how often should the one replace the fuel filter?

[CrazyCal]

I think Audi claims it as a "lifetime filter". I would replace it every 60-80K. Depends on how dirty your local gas is.

Don't know why everyone makes a big deal out of those clips... they were super easy to remove. Did two of them a couple weeks ago. My 2004 1.8T, 91K on the clock and my friend's 2002 3.0, IIRC 129K. No broken clips.

Push clip toward filter, push button, pull off. No pliers needed.

^
This applies to just about any other clip on the 1.8T, electrical or otherwise.

[polishdupa]

this helped with the clips

[Charles.waite]

Yes! See finally someone was just smart enough to make a video. I'm with Cal, the connectors aren't hard, once you get the hang of it and learn to finesse them. Jeremy Clarkson would not have a single functioning connector if he owned an Audi.

[amkmeco]

I think Audi claims it as a "lifetime filter". I would replace it every 60-80K. Depends on how dirty your local gas is.

Don't know why everyone makes a big deal out of those clips... they were super easy to remove. Did two of them a couple weeks ago. My 2004 1.8T, 91K on the clock and my friend's 2002 3.0, IIRC 129K. No broken clips.

Push clip toward filter, push button, pull off. No pliers needed.

^
This applies to just about any other clip on the 1.8T, electrical or otherwise.

thx. but how do i know the amount of dirtiness of my local gas supplier?

[Paulrd27]

Well I changed my filter and put one of the inlets on the wrong side. Car started up after a couple turns and then died right after it started with a noise then gas pissing out near the front passenger tire. What do you guys think happened? I switched them back and now it won't start. I've must of F'ed something up, anyone have a clue what I've done?

[daihashi]

I'd have to say it's your EVAP canister if it's leaking by the front passenger tire.

[Stig's_Cousin]

Thanks for the writeup, OP.

I had someone explain the process to me when I bought the filter, and he told me to remember which lines went where, but I didn't... Your pics were quite handy in helping me get it hooked back up.

[blownb6]

followed this write up the other day ! thanks daim filters aint cheap :)

[MrA4Rider]

Is it me or does 85.63 for a filter from the dealer steep? I have been having starting issues when warm so I am going to start with the filter. The car has just 78K on it.

[big_c]

Did this last night on a 03 Quattro 3.0.

I had only one input and output.

I agree with the previous poster on how the picture is misleading, and the fuel filter is more accurately described as directly in front of the rear passenger tire.

The clips were a piece of cake, press up on the lighter colored piece, press the fitting toward the filter, then remove.

I used a purolator premium plus filter from Advance auto. No noises so far, and appears to be very nice build quality. Made in israel.

Cutting the OEM filter open showed a lot of particles and black colored debris.

[B6A4Dave]

Question.........


How often would you guys suggest replacing these?

I did one about 20k ago...curious if I should do it again. I replaced with an OEM Audi Filter

[vhstejskal]

Question.........


How often would you guys suggest replacing these?

I did one about 20k ago...curious if I should do it again. I replaced with an OEM Audi Filter

Filter change is every 50k but if you run your tank low I would say maybe more frequently. 20 k may be too frequent but its better than replacing the fuel pump because of sediment from the tank....

[Lornnn]

Thanks for the DIY. Helped me out but this thing is a fucking waste.

Cut a huge gash in my thumb while trying to rip it out with a flathead screwdriver. After some electrical tape to stop the bleeding I just ripped that piece of shit out with some vise grips. What do you know the panel is still secure underneath without it.

I do not understand why Audi feels the need to include random fasteners like this, and those that hold in the belly pan...

[daneo]

Hey everyone. Thanks for your contributions. Did this last weekend. At my pace (verrry slow... I like to clean things up while I'm under there too) it took two hours because I ran into a little issue. One of the tabs on the black connector had broken off. Tried to get the deal off using small channel locks and just broke the other tab. It's terrible that Audi uses these plastic connectors unprotected on the bottom side of the car where they get pummeled with dirt, water, and salt.

DON'T USE PLIERS TO COMPRESS THE TABS!

That being said, if the tabs to break off, I was able to get the sucker off using curved needle nose pliers to go in from the "top" of the connector. I rocked the connector to the side and disengaged one tab, then rocked the connector to the other side and disengaged the clip. Whew. It seems to be holding alright.

My fuel had a few flecks of dirt in it, but nothing like the OP's pile of sediment.

Dirt in the ears, gas down my arm. I feel like a man again.

PS: Yeah, the filter is under the rear passenger door, not the back of the car.

PPS: Eff that plastic connector. I'm not worried about replacing it one bit haha.

[Toolaa]

That being said, if the tabs to break off, I was able to get the sucker off using curved needle nose pliers to go in from the "top" of the connector. I rocked the connector to the side and disengaged one tab, then rocked the connector to the other side and disengaged the clip. Whew. It seems to be holding alright.

I had a similar problem I easily removed three of the fittings but the fitting on the tank side with the two black clips was stuck. Nothing I could do to get it off. I tried every shaped pliers and then tried to use some small curved picks to reach under and spread the locking clips. After about an hr of wasting time, I decided to use a hacksaw blade and simply cut off the aluminum pipe stem at the base of the filter. It took 30 sec to cut through by hand. Then with the filter out of the way I used my needle nose pliers and two small picks to spread apart the 4 retaining clips. The aluminum pipe nipple pulled right out.


I know the previous owner replaced the filter at the dealer in 2010, but I was surprised to see how butchered the fitting was. It's obvious that a tech had trouble before.

When I replace this again in two years, I'm going to order two new fittings at the same time.

PS: Be safe when doing this. Even if you are careful you will spill about 4oz of gasoline. I was working at night and had a halogen spot light under the car. Just as I was about to disconnect the lines, the little safety voice in my head reminded me to shut off the big light and grab a sealed fluorescent drop light.


Good luck this is a fairly easy DIY.

[Toolaa]

Here is a picture of the filter cut open with 59k miles on it.




I didn't get any serious crud or particles coming out when I drained it out. So I figured i would cut it open to have a look inside. The silver specs are from using a hacksaw to cut the outer body. I couldn't really see any evidence of any excessive debris or clogging.

[vtwinjunkie]

Can anyone recommend a place to purchase the retaining clips if broken? I have the 3 port filter design.

[BlazinB5]

how does one remove that dumbass plastic expanding "bolt" that holds the plastic cover on? the f*cking thing won't come out for any damn reason, unless i break it. how did you guys not break that fucking thing?

[Charles.waite]

Just break it. It's the stupidest thing ever.

[Spike00513]

Just break it. It's the stupidest thing ever.

I wonder if age is the culprit...Maybe drying out, and what not, over time...Or if its really just the typical cost-cutting cheap crap in random spots on the car...

Has anybody found a solution? For me, I simply broke these off/cut them with a set of cutters/dikes, and I guess I will figure out how to use zip-ties in their place...I mean, yeah, I can order replacements (probably $$) to go through this again...I will look in hardware stores to find a better part...

[BlazinB5]

Just break it. It's the stupidest thing ever.

done, lol

I wonder if age is the culprit...Maybe drying out, and what not, over time...Or if its really just the typical cost-cutting cheap crap in random spots on the car...

Has anybody found a solution? For me, I simply broke these off/cut them with a set of cutters/dikes, and I guess I will figure out how to use zip-ties in their place...I mean, yeah, I can order replacements (probably $$) to go through this again...I will look in hardware stores to find a better part...

as long as that ziptie is easy to remove, i think it's pefect.

[caluma4x4]

I have to change the fuel filter soon, I had bought one and when I went to chage it I noticed that the one supplied had three ports but the one on the car has four, so I had to return it. The torx screw has corroded so badly that there's no way of getting it out other than grinding the head off it.
I had a little trouble with the plastic clip for the plastic guard/undertray, one method is to slide a flat screwdriver under each side and lever it out or even use an old fork and slide it under there and lever it out.
I'm going to get a filter tomorrow and get the filter changed, christmas and new year got in the way as well as the rain and freezing weather (Scotland)