How to change the fuel filter on your car [AUTODOC TUTORIAL]

How to change fuel filter on a car – replacement tutorial

Required Tools:

                      Phillips screwdriver
                    
                      Torx wrench
                    
                      Torx bit

Buy tools

The main reasons for replacing the fuel filter:

the engine running rough
difficulty starting the engine
engine power loss

1.

The fuel filter location depends on the car design and the engine type
2.

The fuel filter can be found: on the underside of the car (near the fuel tank or closer to the engine)
3.

In the engine compartment near the engine
4.

On the engine
5.

Inside the fuel tank
6.

If the fuel filter is located in the tank, a cover is provided under the rear seat or in the luggage compartment floor for easy access to it
7.

In some cases, it might be necessary to remove the fuel tank
8.

An in-tank fuel filter can form a single unit with the pump and fuel level sensor. Often all these components are changed together as an assembly

Important!
Observe all safety precautions while working: fuel is highly flammableAvoid sparks
9.

Clean the working area

Caution!
Prevent dirt from entering the system
10.

Fuel filter hoses are usually fastened with quick connectors
11.

They can be detached simply by unclipping them
12.

In some cars, the fuel hoses are secured with clamps

Please note:
The system is open while the work is being carried outThis means that you will need to perform additional steps to remove air from the fuel system
13.

To prime the fuel system of a petrol car, turn on the ignition and try to start the engine several times
14.

The fuel pump will fill the system with fuel, and the engine will start

Please note!
The engine will not start at the first attempt
15.

To prime the fuel system of a diesel car, special equipment is required
16.

A built-in primer pump
17.

Аn electric pump that is activated when the ignition is switched on or by means of additional equipment
18.

A fuel primer bulb
19.

These devices force feed fuel to the system
20.

Prime the system until it is completely free of air
21.

Unscrew all fasteners of the fuel filter cover
22.

Prepare a container for the used filter
23.

Carefully pry off the fuel filter cover using a suitable tool
24.

Remove the cover and extract the filter element

Important!
While working, take care to not cause any sparks: fuel is highly flammable
25.

Remove the fuel filter housing and pour out the remaining fuel
26.

Clean the housing and reinstall it
27.

Remove the old O-rings from the filter cover
28.

Clean their mounting seats
29.

Install new O-rings
30.

Install a new fuel filter

AUTODOC recommends:
Check that all elements are installed correctly
31.

Tighten the fasteners one after another in a criss-cross pattern
32.

Use a torque wrench and apply the manufacturer's recommended torque
33.

Prime the system in the way that is best for your car
34.

Make sure there are no fuel leaks in the connection areas and start the engine

Comments – 1

@user_1614989

18.05.2023 07:18

Member

I own a 2003 petrol 1.8 litre Ford Maxi Van & want to know where the fuel filter & sensor is located.
Thank You