Celica Fuel Filter Change: Cost And Process Explained

The fuel filter in a Toyota Celica is located inside the fuel tank, under the rear seat. While some owners claim that the fuel filter does not need to be changed, Toyota recommends changing it every 5 years/50,000 miles. The cost of changing a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207, including parts and labor.

The fuel filter plays an important role in the engine's performance by filtering the fuel that the fuel pump pumps. A clogged fuel filter can lead to problems with starting the car, stalling, excessive vibration while driving, and rough slow-speed cruising.

To replace the fuel filter in a Celica, it is important to follow proper steps and procedures due to the high pressure in the fuel system. This includes relieving fuel pressure, disconnecting the battery, and catching any excess fuel that leaks during the process.

Fuel filter replacement cost

The fuel filter in a Toyota Celica is located inside the engine bay, mounted to the firewall and strapped into a mounting bracket. The average cost to change a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207, including parts and labor.

The fuel filter should be replaced every 5 years/50,000 miles for good day-to-day performance. Older cars may need their filters replaced as often as every two years and 30,000 miles, while newer vehicles could go as long as 50,000 miles before needing a change.

The fuel filter plays an important role in the engine: it filters the fuel that the fuel pump pumps. If the fuel filter isn't doing its job, fuel can't get to the engine in sufficient quantities, leading to a loss in performance and potential damage to the cylinder lining.

Some signs that your fuel filter needs changing include problems with starting, stalling, excessive vibration while driving, and rough slow-speed cruising.

• Remove the fuse for the fuel pump. The fuse compartment is located near the bottom of the dash next to the cigarette lighter behind a pullout cover.
• Start the car with the fuse removed and allow the engine to idle until it runs out of fuel and dies. This should take less than a minute.
• Remove the negative battery lead from the car battery to prevent inadvertent starts or electrical shocks.
• Locate the fuel filter inside the engine bay.
• Place a catch pan or drip pan beneath the fuel filter to catch any excess fuel that will leak from the inlet fuel line when the fitting is loosened.
• Place a shop rag or old towel over the top of the fuel filter to eliminate any fuel spray that may be trapped under pressure.
• Loosen the banjo nut using a 17mm wrench slowly to allow fuel to bleed and drain out of the system. Once all fuel has drained, continue to back out the bolt to remove the fitting from the filter.
• Remove the outlet fuel line from the filter using the 17mm wrench by loosening the swivel fitting slowly and backing it off the fuel filter fitting. Plug both fuel lines or wrap and tape inside a small plastic bag.
• Remove the four 10-millimeter bolts that attach the fuel filter to the firewall using a 10mm wrench.
• Lift the old filter out of the engine compartment and insert the new fuel filter. Attach it to the firewall in the same orientation as the old filter and install the four 10mm bolts.
• Screw on the swivel compression fitting onto the filter fitting and tighten with the 17mm wrench.
• Place new washers onto the banjo fitting and install the fitting onto the new fuel filter. Start the banjo fitting bolt and make it up hand tight. Torque the banjo fitting to 22 ft. lbs. with the torque wrench.
• Reinstall the negative battery lead to the car battery and tighten the terminal connection. Reinsert the fuel pump fuse into the fuse panel and start the car. The engine will turn over several times until fuel pressure is regained before the engine fires. This process should take 10 to 20 seconds.
• Inspect the fuel filter installation for any signs of fuel leaks while the engine is at idle.

How often to change fuel filter

The fuel filter in a Toyota Celica is located inside the fuel tank. Some sources state that it does not need to be changed, while others recommend changing it around 45,000 to 60,000 miles, or every two years.

The fuel filter plays a crucial role in your car's engine by filtering the fuel that the fuel pump pumps. If the fuel filter becomes clogged, your car may experience problems with starting, stalling, excessive vibration while driving, and rough slow-speed cruising.

To maintain optimal performance, it is recommended to change the fuel filter every five years or 50,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and conditions. However, it is always best to refer to your owner's manual for specific maintenance intervals and procedures for your particular vehicle.

The cost of changing the fuel filter can vary depending on whether you take it to a dealer or an independent service center. The average cost nationwide is between $90 and $207, including parts and labor.

Where is the fuel filter located

The fuel filter on a Toyota Celica is located inside the fuel tank, under the rear passenger seat. To access it, you will need to remove the back seat and the fuel tank cover. The fuel pump is also located under the rear seat, and the fuel filter is part of the fuel pump assembly.

Some sources suggest that there is a second fuel filter located in the engine bay, near the master brake cylinder, on the driver's side strut tower. This is described as a black metal can with a fuel line coming out from the top. However, other sources claim that there is only one fuel filter, located inside the fuel tank.

It is recommended to consult a certified mechanic or a Toyota dealership for specific information regarding the location and replacement of the fuel filter in your Toyota Celica.

Signs of a bad fuel filter

The fuel filter plays a crucial role in your car's performance by ensuring that contaminants do not enter the engine. A clogged fuel filter can lead to a host of problems, including a decrease in fuel efficiency and even engine failure. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to replace your fuel filter:

• Problems with Starting: You may experience difficulty starting your car, or it may take multiple attempts to get it running.
• Stalling: A clogged fuel filter can cause your car to stall, especially while idling at a stop sign or red light.
• Excessive Vibration While Driving: A rough idle or lurching forward sensation while driving could be due to a clogged fuel filter restricting fuel flow.
• Rough Slow-Speed Cruising: While highway cruising may be fine, you might experience struggles and poor performance at slower speeds.
• Power Loss When Under Load: A blocked fuel filter may not be able to maintain sufficient fuel pressure when the demand for fuel is high, such as during acceleration or when pulling a load.
• Check Engine Light: A clogged fuel filter can trigger the Check Engine Light by causing a 'P0171 System Too Lean' code, indicating that the injectors are not receiving enough pressurized fuel.
• Engine Runs Rough or Stalls: Insufficient fuel supply due to a clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to stumble or stall while driving or idling.
• Engine Won't Start: A clogged fuel filter may prevent the fuel from pressurizing properly, resulting in the engine failing to start or starting briefly and then dying.
• Decreased Fuel Economy: Interestingly, a blocked fuel filter can lead to higher fuel consumption as the engine compensates for the perceived lean air-fuel mixture by commanding more fuel to be injected.
• Loud Noises from the Fuel Pump: Unusual noises coming from the fuel pump could indicate that it is working harder than usual to push fuel through a dirty fuel filter.
• Fuel System Component Failure: Electric fuel pumps can fail prematurely due to the increased strain of trying to push fuel through a clogged filter.

It is important to note that the fuel filter maintenance interval can vary depending on the age and type of your vehicle. Older cars may need their filters replaced every two years or 30,000 miles, while newer vehicles can go up to 50,000 miles between changes. Some newer cars even have "lifetime" filters that are built into the fuel pump and do not require regular replacement. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

How to replace the fuel filter

Step 1: Relieve the Pressure in the Fuel System

First, locate your vehicle’s fuse box. You will need to run the vehicle without the fuel pump functioning for a short time. To do this, find the fuse box that contains the fuel pump fuse. This could be in the interior of the car or under the hood. Remove the fuse for the fuel pump using a pair of needle-nose pliers or plastic tweezers.

Next, ensure the vehicle is not in gear. Start the engine and let it run for a minute or two before shutting it off. Re-insert the fuel pump fuse and make sure the vehicle is off before replacing the fuse.

Step 2: Remove the Old Fuel Filter

Disconnect the battery. Locate the fuel filter, which is likely to be along the fuel line on the bottom of the car, just past the fuel pump, or in the engine bay on the line that leads to the fuel rail. Jack up the car if necessary and place a bowl or bucket beneath the fuel filter to catch any fuel that spills out.

Remove the clips holding the fuel filter in place using a flat-head screwdriver. Then, slide the fuel lines away from the filter and tip them towards the bowl or bucket to catch any spilled gasoline. Finally, slide the fuel filter out of its bracket.

Step 3: Install a New Fuel Filter

Compare the new filter to the old one. Slide the new fuel filter into the bracket and fasten it to the fuel line. Make sure the fuel lines are snug on the nozzles of the fuel filter before sliding the clips into place.

Step 4: Lower the Vehicle

Lower the vehicle off of the jack stands and reconnect the battery.

Frequently asked questions