Regan Brown
The fuel filter in a 2003 Durango is positioned in the line leading from the gas tank to the engine. It prevents contaminants from getting inside the engine, which could lead to a loss in performance and potential damage to the cylinder lining. Many car companies recommend changing the fuel filter every 5 years/50,000 miles, but this may vary depending on where you live and your driving habits. The average cost to change a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207 (including parts and labour). However, it's worth noting that there is no fuel filter to change on a 2003 Durango, as the fuel filter was eliminated in 1995 on Dodge trucks. The only filter is located on the fuel pump housing in the fuel tank, which can be accessed by dropping the fuel tank.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Warning signs of a bad fuel pump | Engine "chokes" or struggles to maintain speed, whirring sound coming from the fuel tank |
| How to access the fuel pump | Through the top of the fuel tank via an access panel in the passenger compartment or by removing the tank from the vehicle |
| How to replace the fuel pump | Install the new fuel pump using the items included in the kit, especially the rubber gasket for the fuel tank. Rotate the fuel pump until the alignment arrow points toward the alignment mark. Be sure the fitting on top of the fuel pump faces towards the driver's side. Tighten the lock ring with tool 9340 until all seven notches engage. |
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What You'll Learn
Warning signs of a bad fuel pump
To replace a fuel pump in a 2003 Durango, a mechanic will need to access the failed pump through the top of the fuel tank via an access panel in the passenger compartment or by removing the tank from the vehicle. This is a moderately complicated job, so it's best to take your car to a service centre that works on Dodge vehicles. If you're a DIYer, you can install a new fuel pump in a few hours by disconnecting the fuel filler hose and lowering the tank to access the pump. Then, disconnect the fuel lines and electricals to the pump, unscrew the nut and lift it out.
A failing fuel pump can manifest in many ways, and recognising these symptoms can save you from costly repairs or dangerous situations. It's essential to pay attention to any changes in your vehicle's performance, such as increased engine temperature, sputtering at high speeds, power loss, unusual noises, and poor fuel efficiency. More severe signs like the car not starting, engine misfires, stalling at high temperatures, sudden surges, acceleration issues, and failure to meet emission standards should not be ignored. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's recommended that you consult a professional mechanic immediately.
One of the first signs of a failing fuel pump is an increase in the engine's temperature. If your vehicle's temperature gauge shows higher than normal readings regularly, it might indicate a problem with the fuel pump. Intermittent operation, especially when the engine is hot, can also be a warning sign. For example, if your vehicle starts fine but begins to sputter after a few miles of driving, the fuel pump could be going bad. This may only occur when the engine is hot, so let the engine idle for at least 20 minutes before checking.
A slow or no-start vehicle is another early warning sign of a bad fuel pump. If your vehicle starts slowly or won't start at all, and you know the starter and battery are good, the fuel pump could be the problem. Starting and acceleration depend heavily on the amount of fuel supplied. A whirring or whining sound from under the vehicle, even if it doesn't seem to come from the tank area, can also indicate a bad pump.
A complete failure of the fuel pump means you won't have fuel at the engine to start it. Other symptoms are less severe and can include lack of acceleration, sputtering or stalling as you drive, decreased fuel efficiency, and a high-pitched whining noise from the back of your vehicle.
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How to access the fuel pump
To access the fuel pump in a 2003 Durango, you will need to remove the tank. This can be done by siphoning the tank and then removing it, or by using a jack to drop the tank.
If the retention ring has rusted, it may need to be sanded before attempting to remove the tank. It is also possible to empty the tank for removal using one of two methods outlined in the FSM.
Once the tank is removed, the fuel pump can be accessed and replaced.
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How to install a new fuel pump
If you're a DIYer, you can install a new fuel pump in your 2003 Dodge Durango in only a few hours. However, this is a moderately complicated job and it is recommended that you take your car to a service centre that works on Dodge vehicles.
The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank. To access it, you will need to disconnect the fuel filler hose and lower the tank. Disconnect the fuel lines and electrical to the pump, then unscrew the nut and lift it out. Install your new fuel pump, being careful to avoid getting debris in the tank, then mount it under your SUV again.
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How to align the fuel pump
To align the fuel pump in a 2003 Durango, you will need to first disconnect the fuel lines and electricals to the pump, then unscrew the nut and lift it out. When installing the new fuel pump, be careful to avoid getting debris in the tank. Rotate the fuel pump until the alignment arrow points towards the alignment mark.
The fuel pump is mounted in the fuel tank, so you will need to disconnect the fuel filler hose and lower the tank to access it. This can be done through an access panel in the passenger compartment or by removing the tank from the vehicle. It is a moderately complicated job, so it may be best to have it done at your dealership’s service department.
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When to take your car to a service centre
If you're experiencing issues with your 2003 Durango's fuel system, it's important to know when to take your car to a service centre. Here are some detailed instructions and guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
Firstly, it's important to understand that the 2003 Durango does not have a fuel filter that requires regular replacement. The fuel filter was eliminated in 1995 on Dodge trucks, so there is no need to replace it. However, if you're experiencing fuel-related issues, it's likely due to a problem with the fuel pump.
The fuel pump is responsible for delivering or "pumping" gas or diesel into the combustion chamber of your Durango. While it is designed to be long-lasting, it can sometimes fail. Warning signs of a bad fuel pump include an engine that "chokes" or struggles to maintain speed. If left unattended for too long, the engine may eventually fail to start. Therefore, it is recommended to see a mechanic as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms.
To access the fuel pump, a mechanic will need to remove the fuel tank or gain access through an access panel in the passenger compartment. This is a moderately complicated job, so it is best performed at a dealership's service department or by an experienced mechanic.
If you suspect that your fuel pump is failing or if you're experiencing any fuel-related issues with your 2003 Durango, it's important to take your car to a service centre as soon as possible. A qualified mechanic will be able to diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to ensure your vehicle's fuel system is functioning properly.
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Frequently asked questions
Signs of failure are a car that won't start or stalls once it has started. Other times, the fuel flow can slowly become starved, causing the check engine light to come on. You might also hear a whirring or high-pitched whining noise coming from your fuel tank.
Disconnect the fuel lines and electricals to the pump, then unscrew the nut and lift it out. Install your new fuel pump, being careful to avoid getting debris in the tank, then mount it under your SUV again. You'll need to disconnect the fuel filler hose and lower the tank to access it.
It is a moderately complicated job, so it's best to take your car to a service centre that works on Dodge vehicles and have them diagnose the problem.
