A fuel filter is designed to remove partials and contaminants from the fuel before they enter the fuel injection system. Most cars have one or two filters, the primary filter is located in the fuel tank attached to the inlet of the fuel pump and can sometimes be called a strainer. The secondary filter is located on the fuel pressure line headed from the tank to the engine and more specifically the fuel rail.
As with any filter when the capacity of the membrane is exceeded it diminishes flow capabilities. Restricted fuel pressure/flow equates to engine runnability problems such as low power, hesitation and hard starting.
Fuel filter
The strainer or primary fuel filter is located the fuel tank attached to the inlet of the fuel pump. Some manufactures design a tap door to access the filter while others designed require the fuel tank to be removed. This filter is considered to be lifetime although it rarely makes it that long. Secondary filters have gone by the wayside in most cars and some trucks. If your car has one it will be located by the engine compartment or under the car on the frame or sub frame rail on the driver's side, or near the fuel tank. Diesel powered vehicles have multiple filters which act as a water separator that must be changed regularly. (Need to know where a filter is ask us).
The cost of a fuel filter will range from $15.00 to $35.00 in most cases, diesel fuel filters can run a little more. Labor for the job can vary greatly depending on the filter location.
Release or remove the fuel lines, fuel may drip out be ready with a small container or shop towel.
Remove the fuel filter mount.
Once released pull the fuel line away from the filter, small amount of fuel will leak when line is removed, match and reinstall the new filter.
Diesel fuel filters and water separator replacement
Primary filter/strainer replacement
Inline fuel filter replacement
Fuel filter removal tool
What's inside a fuel filter?
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