How to Replace a Fuel Filter in a 1990 Honda Civic Si

If you have noticed that your car is sometimes hard to start, sputters occasionally, or that your gas mileage is suffering, a dirty fuel filter may be the culprit.

The Honda Owner's Manual states that the fuel filter "should be replaced every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months whichever comes first, or any time you suspect contaminated gas may have clogged it".

If it is time for a new filter, here are instructions for doing it yourself:

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fuel Filter (I used a Purolator F54638)
• Socket wrench with extension
• 10, 12, and 17 mm sockets
• 10 mm nut driver
• Adjustable Wrench

1. Unscrew the fuel filler cap to relieve any pressure in the fuel system.

2. Detach the cable from the negative battery terminal.

3. 
    
   Fuel Filter Loacation

   Locate the fuel filter in the engine compartment (on the back left side of the fire wall as you look at the engine from the front of the car).

4. 
    
   Relieve the Fuel Pressure

   Place a shop towel or rag around the filter and relieve the pressure in the fuel line by loosing (one turn) the 12 mm "service" bolt on top of the 17 mm "banjo" bolt (on the right side of the filter when viewed from the front of the car). Some fuel will leak out as the pressure is relieved. Retighten the 12 mm "service" bolt

5. Remove the two 17 mm "banjo" bolts from the fuel filter (You may need to grip the nuts that are welded on the top of the filter with an adjustable wrench in order to remove stubborn bolts). Make sure you keep track of the several metal washers and remember where they are located so you can install the new filter properly. Some new filters will come with a packet including a variety of washers to replace the old ones (the packet that I used had several extra washers that I did not use when I reinstalled the new filter).

6. Remove the 10 mm bolt holding the fuel filter retaining clamp with the nut driver and remove the old filter.

7. Reinstall the retaining clamp around the new filter.

8. Install the two "banjo" bolts making sure to grip the welded-on nuts with the adjustable wrench in order to properly torque the bolts for a tight connection.

9. Reconnect the battery connection and have someone turn the ignition on (but do not start the car). Check carefully for leaks.

10. 
     
    Fuel Filter Gunk

    For giggles and grins - pour the dregs of the old filter into a clear container and marvel at the gunk that was trapped inside. HAPPY MOTORING!

Tips & Warnings

• These instructions are for a 1990 Honda Civic Si. Other Honda cars with fuel injected engines may be very similar.
• Make sure that the ignition is turned off before beginning.
• This job should be done with the engine cold (after sitting at least three hours).
• Gasoline is extremely flammable, so take extra precautions. Don't smoke or allow open flames or bare lights bulbs near the work area. Never work in a garage where natural gas appliances (such as a water heater or clothes dryer) with a pilot light are present.
• Wear safety goggles.
• Keep a Class B fire extinguisher handy.

Resources

• Honda Civic Hybrid