How to Replace a Fuel Line Filter

A fuel filter is a simple and inexpensive part of your car's engine. It's used to prevent dust, dirt and other particles from contaminating your vehicle's carburetor or fuel injection system. Without a clean and functioning fuel filter, your engine can experience a variety of operational difficulties. Thankfully, it's relatively easy to replace old fuel line filters to keep your car running as smoothly as possible.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• New fuel filter
• Washers
• Wrench
• Towel

1. Start your car's engine by turning the key.
2. Locate the fuse responsible for controlling the fuel pump. If your car doesn't have a fuel pump fuse, you'll need to locate the relay responsible for controlling the fuel pump.
3. Remove the fuse or relay responsible for your car's fuel pump. The car's engine should stop running. This will help to release any pressure that has collected within your fuel lines.
4. Pop your car's hood and secure it in place. Affix a light to the hood if you're having trouble seeing inside.
5. Remove the "banjo fitting" from your old fuel pump with a wrench. This is a unique bolt that connects the filter to the fuel lines. Depending on your vehicle's specifics, you may need to remove two banjo fittings.
6. Remove the clamp that holds your old fuel filter in place. The method through which your fuel filter is held in place may differ between car makes and models, so you should consult your owner's manual to find out how yours is installed.
7. Remove the metal washer from your old filter's banjo fitting. Replace the old washers with new ones.
8. Install your new fuel line filter. Secure the banjo fittings and replace the clamp to hold your new fuel filter in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Most experts agree that you should change your fuel line filter at least once a year.
• Your old fuel line filter may still have gas in it. Take care when you attempt to remove an old fuel filter to replace it with a new one.
• Certain makes and models of vehicles have special directions for replacing a fuel filter. You may need a fuel line wrench to disconnect your fuel filter. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for any unique directions.
• It's important that you relieve any of the pressure that's collected within your fuel lines before you attempt to change an old fuel filter. If you fail to release the pressure, you increase the risk of a gas explosion.