How to Remove Car Parts to Reach the Fuel Filter

There are a few things you must do before changing your fuel filter. In today's day and age, cars are fuel injected. If your car has fuel injection, you will have anywhere from 32 to 60 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.) of pressure in the fuel lines.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Generally, there are no parts to remove to replace the fuel filter. The fuel filter is generally located underneath the car. It could be towards the rear of the car or the middle of the car. It could be on the left or the right. The easiest way to find it is to follow the fuel lines from the fuel tank to the filter. If you do not see the fuel filter under the car, you will need to look for it near the firewall in the engine compartment.

2. Once you have located the fuel filter and you have determined that you have the correct fuel filter, you will need to ensure that you have the proper tools to remove the fuel filter. Most fuel filters have locks on them that require a special tool (a fuel filter disconnect) to get them off. They come in different sizes. Be sure you have the correct size before you start.

3. You should now know that you have the correct filter and the correct tools to do the job. You need to release the fuel pressue in the fuel line. There are three ways to do this, depending on your car. Look for a schrader valve on the fuel line in the engine compartment. Take the cap off, and using a screwdriver, gently push the schrader in. Doing this will spray gasoline all over the place. It is advised that you have a rag ready to catch some of the spray.If your car does not have a schrader valve, you can losen a nut on one of the fuel lines. Again, because of the pressure in the fuel lines, you will get sprayed with gas. Have a rag ready to catch some of the spray.The third way can be the easiest way or the most difficult way. It would be to unplug the fuel pump from its power source. If you have a fuel pump access under the rear seat, this is the method you should use. Disconnect the wires going into the fuel pump. Be sure not to touch them to each other or ground them out by touching both to metal. Once the fuel pump is disconnected, turn the engine over a few times.

4. After you release the pressre in the fuel lines, you are now ready to change your fuel filter. Place a "catch bucket" under the fuel filter. When you remove the filter, it will be full of gas. Using the disconnect, remove the filter. Replace the new filter, making sure the flow is going in the right direction. Look for the arrow on the filter - the arrow should be pointing towards the front of the car.

5. Reconnect the hoses, making sure you have a good connection. If you unhooked your fuel pump, hook it back up (make sure the key is off before you do this!)To save some wear and tear on your starter, prime the fuel lines by turning the key on for two seconds and turn it off for 5 seconds. Repeat three times.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when releasing the pressure from the fuel lines that the fuel does not spray in your face.
• Do not re-use the rags you used to catch the fuel. Dispose of them properly. Putting them into the washer and dryer may cause a fire.
• If disconnecting the fuel pump to release the pressure, be sure the key is OFF before disconnecting and reconnecting.