Noisy fuel pump

[Justino]

Have noticed a ticking noise from the inside car - at first thought it was valve clearances given all the recent posts about cam wear, but on closer listening I think it is the fuel pump as the noise is coming from the rear. Its a mechanical ticking noise. At speed I can hear a higher pitched noise, I thought this was the rear diif, but thinking it may be the pump also.

Anyone had a similar issue? I am wondering whether to put a new fuel filter in first to see if its an obstruction, or running some injector cleaning through - any recommendations on the best type?

Car is 2008 with 34,000 miles, have only done 2,000 miles in last 12 months, so wondering whether the fuel may have degraded at some stage?

 

[Adam D]

Fuel pumps tend to whine as they spin fairly quick; ruled out a stone/nail in the tyre?

 

[AndyBeech]

Sure it's not just the injectors ticking, are quite noisy!
New fuel filter is not an easy job at all, it's built into the tank so will cost you a fair whack to get it replaced!

 

[Justino]

Its the fuel pump for sure, its at the back, and can hear the ticking when stationary from this area, so rules out a nail in the tyre, injectors and tappets etc. It hasn't always been this way - I listen for changes as that is a more reliable indication of something happening.

Was wondering why the fuel filter wasn't on Insp I or II list, guess that is why if it is difficult to do.

 

[Justino]

Sure it's not just the injectors ticking, are quite noisy!
New fuel filter is not an easy job at all, it's built into the tank so will cost you a fair whack to get it replaced!

Seems the pump and filter are all in the same area, inboard of the tank.Exhaust off job to access.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BT12-EUR---E85-BMW-Z4+2.2i&diagId=16_0541

My thoughts were I had a blockage, dirty injectors causing the pump to work harder, hence noisier. I only did 1500 miles last year, so perhaps some of the fuel has gummed something up, apparently a problem on low mileage cars. I have read good things about Seam Foam fuel line cleaner, a US product so ordered some from ebay.