[saad12]

I had the schedule B service done 3-4 months ago and I was advised on replacing the spark/fuel filter since the car > 4 years old but mileage wise it only has 48000 miles and it is recommended to get it at 60,000 and I had deferred it to the next service.
My car is at the dealer again for the window regulator and I was again advised to have these replaced - the cost of replacing spark plugs + fuel filter + air filter is $700 - is it easy to do this myself - will it impact the star mark warranty ( that I have until 2006) - should I take it independent mechanic - or should I wait for the car to reach 60,000 miles for the spark plugs and fuel filter replacement.
Please advise. BTW how many spark plugs are there - 6 or 12

 

[E Wagon]

You can do all that your self. Spark plugs are easy to do. Don't buy them from the dealer. My dealer wanted $16/plug. Multiply that by 12 for the V6 engine...well. I got mine online for ~$5 ea. I have seen post about people having trouble with Bosch Platinum +2 and +4. Might want to stay clear of these. Air filter is very simple. Fuel filter is a bit more complicated but is still a DIY job. There are previous post on how to do everything you are asking. Just use the search. You could also get an alldatadiy subscription, about $25/year. well worth it.

All Dealers want you to think that taking your car somewhere else, or doing your own maintaince will void the warranty, but if you use OEM recomended parts and use them properly no warranty will be voided.

 

[saad12]

Thanks a lot for your prompt response.
Could you kindly send me instructions on doing the spark plugs and fuel filter - I searched for the spark plugs couldn't find detailed instructions.
Your help is appreciated.
I guess I can easily handly the air filter myself.
What spark plugs should I go with.

Thanks.

 

[dnewman]

I have an 01 and used the Bosch +4's. The car runs great, very smooth. I had PepBoys replace them. It cost me $180.00. I tried to do it myself but found it very difficult to get the wires off of the plugs and it is a very tight fit in the engine compartment. I also replaced my own fuel filter. It is located under the rear door on the drivers side. Just remove the cover and it is right there. Very easy... Good luck

 

[saad12]

Thanks !!
Could you please send me instructions to replace the fuel filter

 

[dnewman]

I don't have instructions. Just look underneath the car under the driverside rear door. You will see a cover that unbolts from the car. The rest is easy.

 

[saad12]

Does anyone know of any reputable mechanics in San Diego who can do this but are less expensive than the dealer??
Please advise

 

[skyking]

I changed the plugs and fuel filter on my wife's 2000 E320 before the 60K mark but at the 4 year make while still under Starmark. I used Bosch F8 DPP332 platinum plugs and a Bosch fuel filter. The filter was located under the driver side rear seat. A cover is removed by removing about four plastic nuts. Before removing the fuel filter you need to remove the gas gap to help depresurize the system. You may need to get some small hoze clamps since the existing clamps broke off during removal due to the use of a special tool to put them on. To replace the plugs allow the engine to cool down, remove the air intake and the plastic cover on top of the motor by lifting up on it at each corner(it will snap off in 4 places). Removing the wires is difficult due to them being on for so long. Using an 15 or 17mm opened end wrench with offset end wedged on the valve cover will help. The most difficult to access is the driver side rear. Removing the coils on top of the valve cover eases access. It is best to replace each wire in its original position (they are not all the same). Use a plug socket with a rubber retainer to hold each plug and attache a short extension. You need a torque wrench to properly tighten the new plugs. You will save and learn alot. Keep your old plugs for future inspection (they will help diagnose potential problems by cylinder). Allow a couple hours if this is your first time.