DIY: How to Replace a Fuel Filter on a Vehicle

Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• standard/flat screwdriver
• 3/8" drive 8mm socket
• 3/8" drive 10mm socket
• 3/8" drive 3" extension
• cup or pan
• safety glasses
• latex gloves
• rags
• new fuel filter

Procedure:

• first start by locating the filter which can be found in various locations such as under the hood, inside a fender well, by the fuel tank, under the floor, in a frame rail, etc
• determine if the vehicle needs to be elevated off the ground or not
• first cut back the fuel pressure so it doesn't spray out once the fuel lines are disconnected
• do this by pulling the fuse for the fuel pump, then start the engine which will only run for a couple seconds until the pressurized fuel has been used up
• for this vehicle, the fuse panel is located in the glove box and we will want to remove fuse number 31
• remove any covers if required to gain access to the fuel filter
• unbolt or disconnect the clamp holding on the fuel filter
• remove the gear clamps if equipped or disconnect the fuel fittings
• twist the filter if possible to help break free the rubber lines or o-rings in the fittings
• have a cup or pan handy to drain the access fuel in the lines or filter
• take the filter out completely
• now compared the old filter and new filter
• ensure that they are similar so it will fit correctly on your vehicle
• determine the flow orientation, there will either be an in/out imprinted on the ends of the filter or a flow arrow
• install the new filter and fasten all the items back up except a cover if equipped
• start the vehicle
• it may take a minute to turn over to bleed the fuel pressure from the system
• DO NOT overwork the starter as you can burn it out, allow it to cool down in between usage
• once the vehicle is running, inspect for leaks
• that the appropriate actions if you do find a leak
• if not, reinstall the rest of the components in reverse of removal

Video tutorial on how to replace the fuel filter on your vehicle. This is a generic video, not all vehicles are equipped with a replaceable style fuel filter. Some have a filter built into the pump assembly, therefore they are not usually serviceable without replacing the whole unit. Maintenance intervals are dependant on manufacturers but a generic specification is 40,000km or 25,000 miles. Plugged fuel filters can cause poor fuel economy, a drop in performance, rough engine idling, and added strain on your fuel pump. A This particular tutorial was done on a 1997 BMW 540i and the steps are included for a direct replacement on this vehicle.