Where is the fuel filter located?

Tiny
ISRALOP
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 HONDA CIVIC
  • 1.7L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 140,000 MILES
I am trying to replace my fuel filter for my car listed above LX. I don't know where it is and would like to know. Please let me know, thank you.
Tuesday, February 9th, 2021 AT 1:00 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,950 POSTS
The fuel filter is attached to the fuel pump inside the tank. Replacing it means you need to access the in tank unit and remove it, then take it apart to replace the filter and strainer that is attached to the pump.
The unit is accessed by removing the rear seat bottom cushion. Then there is an access plate that gets removed. Next you need to remove any fuel pressure from the system. To do that you remove fuse 17 from the under dash fuse panel. Then start the engine and it will run a bit and shut down. Try to start it again, it shouldn't start. The pressure is now relieved.

Next go to the pump module and disconnect the electrical connector and the fuel line quick connector. Tuck the line out of the way. Now use a lock ring tool to loosen and remove the module lock ring. Next you will need to lift the pump assembly out of the tank, I usually put absorbent mats around them because they do retain fuel and it stinks if spilled onto the carpet.
Once you have the unit out you will need to dump and extra fuel out of it and move it to a better place to work. I like to use a plastic tub to set the pump in and move it. Now with the pump out you need to remove the lower shroud assembly to access the strainer. The upper filter is part of the pump assembly and not available except as part of the complete module but the suction filter does most of the work and is replaceable. Once the shroud is off the strainer gets removed and the strainer replaced. Then you reverse the process to reinstall the unit.
However unless you have a fuel related issue like low fuel pressure there is no real reason to change them out. Honda has a pressure specification of 40-47 psi as the operating pressure and recommends filter replacement only if that pressure isn't met.
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Tuesday, February 9th, 2021 AT 3:08 PM
Tiny
ISRALOP
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you very much for this detailed information. I will be changing it shortly because the car stalls sometimes and it cranks and won't turn on. I changed the battery and the spark plugs so im guessing it is the fuel filter. Thank you once again.
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Wednesday, February 10th, 2021 AT 6:02 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 12,950 POSTS
That shouldn't be the filter. A bad filter would be a constant issue, with low power and poor acceleration. However it could be the pump itself that is failing. The process to change it is the same as changing the filter though. What you can do would be to get a fuel pressure gauge and test the pump to be sure before you replace it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Gives a break down of the testing process. You can usually find the gauges as loaner tools at many of the parts stores. I would also do a simple audio test, go to the fuel filler and listen while someone turns on the key, normally you can hear the pump turn on at that point. Try it a few times and then when it won't start listen for the sound and test the pressure. No sound and no or very low pressure and it's likely a failing pump. If you hear it and you have 40-47 PSI on the gauge while you try to start it, that isn't the pump or filter but something else.
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Wednesday, February 10th, 2021 AT 6:49 AM

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