Fuel Filter Replacement Facts and Tips

Fuel filter replacement is essential to keep your car running well. A fuel filter is an object that protects your gas tank from debris and particles. If not protected well, the gas tank would be rusted and hold moisture, leading to fuel contamination and a damaged engine. If you’re worried about fuel filter replacement cost, don’t. Replacing a filter is not very expensive compared to a car repair if you put it off until the damage occurs and exacerbates. Below are tips and facts associated with fuel filter replacement:

How To Replace a Fuel Filter

1. Park your car on a solid spot.
2. Relieve the fuel tank pressure by loosening the cap on the gas tank.
3. Remove the fuel pump fuse.
4. Disconnect the negative battery cable and battery.
5. Disconnect fuel lines and fuel filter.
6. Remove fuel filter.
7. Put in new fuel filter.
8. Secure fuel filter lines and put the fuel pump fuse back into place.
9. Reconnect the battery cables.
10. Check for leaks, and test drive the car.

(Note: Car engine may not run on the first attempt because of lacking fuel, but it should start when pressure increases and when the fuel reaches the injectors. Also, in some cars made after 2005, it’s impossible to replace the fuel filter because it’s part of the fuel pump.) It’s recommended that you have this done every couple of years.

Common Symptoms That Indicate a Need of Fuel Filter Replacement Include:

• No power
• Car refuses to start
• Gas mileage is poor
• Engine light being on

The Importance of Fuel Filter Replacement

Fuel Filter maintenance is not something to take lightly. If you neglect to replace your fuel filter on a proper schedule, it won’t be able to filter the gas from contaminants. Then, it would damage the engine and require costly repairs. Don’t wait until it gets that bad!

Fuel Filter Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a fuel filter varies since it depends on the makeup of your car and what the auto repair shop charges. For example, if you drive a 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350, it could cost about $370 or more. Other replacement jobs could cost more or less. If this is out of your budget, you may be better off following the fuel filter replacement instructions above to save money.