Maxima Fuel Filter: Changing It In 5 Easy Steps

The fuel filter in a 2000 Nissan Maxima is located inside the fuel tank, and can be accessed by removing the rear seat. The fuel filter is an important component of the car's engine, ensuring that fuel can get to the engine in sufficient quantities. While Nissan states that the 5th Gen Maxima has a lifetime filter, many disagree and recommend changing the filter every 50-60k miles. Changing the fuel filter is a relatively straightforward process and should take no longer than an hour.

Remove the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box under the steering wheel

To remove the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box under the steering wheel of a 2000 Nissan Maxima, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuse box under the steering wheel. The fuse box is typically located in the area beneath and to the side of the steering wheel. It is usually a rectangular box with a lid that can be opened to access the fuses.

Once you have located the fuse box, open the lid and look for the fuel pump fuse. The fuel pump fuse is typically labeled as such, or it may be labeled as "Fuel Injector" or "Fuel System." It is often blue in colour and has a rating of 15 amps. In a 2000 Nissan Maxima, it is the fourth fuse from the right on the bottom row.

When you have identified the fuel pump fuse, remove it from the fuse box. You may need to use a small screwdriver or fuse puller to gently pry it out. Be careful not to damage the fuse or the fuse box.

Removing the fuel pump fuse will disable the fuel pump, preventing fuel from being pumped to the engine. This is an important step when working on the fuel system, as it helps to reduce the risk of fire or fuel leakage.

Remember to reinstall the fuel pump fuse when you have finished your work, as the vehicle will not run properly without it. Also, be sure to dispose of the old fuse properly, as it may still contain residual electricity.

Attempt to start the car to release fuel pressure

To attempt to start a car and release the fuel pressure, there are several steps you should follow to ensure your safety and that of your vehicle. These include:

Firstly, disconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery to prevent potential shocks and sparks that could lead to a fire. This is a crucial step to ensure safety.

Next, put on appropriate safety gear. This includes safety glasses, gloves, a mechanic's apron, and a face mask. These will protect your eyes, nose, mouth, and skin from any splashes of fuel or other fluids.

Now, locate the fuel pump fuse and start the car. Once the car has started, pull the fuse. The car will die, so crank it a few times.

At this point, you should open the cigarette box and remove any cigarettes. It is not a good idea to smoke while changing the filter.

The next step is to locate the fuel filter. It is usually found on the firewall in front of the driver's side. You will need to attempt to unscrew the bottom clamp. This can be tricky, as you may get your hand stuck, so be careful not to yank your hand out and cause injury.

Once the bottom clamp is unscrewed, you can yank on the filter to remove it. Be prepared for any remaining fuel to spill out.

It is important to note that attempting to start your car to release fuel pressure comes with some risks. If you are not careful, you could damage the fuel pump, cause fuel leakage, or experience power loss. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Remove the back seat by pulling towards the front of the car

To remove the back seat of a 2000 Nissan Maxima, first locate the two clips that are under the front of the back seat. Then, pull the seat towards the front of the car to release it from these clips.

This will give you access to the fuel pump, which is located inside the fuel tank. The fuel filter is part of the fuel pump module.

Remove the three nuts using a 10mm socket or a Phillips screwdriver

To remove the three nuts, you will need a 10mm socket or a Phillips screwdriver. If you are using a 10mm socket, attach it to your socket wrench and fit it over the nut. Twist the wrench in a clockwise direction to loosen the nut. Repeat this process for the remaining two nuts. If you are using a Phillips screwdriver, place the tip of the screwdriver into the cross-head indentation on the nut. Twist the screwdriver in a clockwise direction to loosen the nut. Repeat this process for the remaining two nuts.

Remove the fuel line by squeezing the blue clips with needle-nose pliers

To remove the fuel line from your 2000 Nissan Maxima, you'll need a pair of needle-nose pliers.

First, locate the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box under the steering wheel. It's the blue 15-amp fuse, fourth from the right on the bottom row. Remove this fuse, then attempt to start the car to release the fuel pressure. If it starts, let it run until it dies. Then, try starting the car two more times, letting it crank for a few seconds. This will release the pressure in the fuel lines.

Now, you can remove the fuel line by squeezing the blue clips with your needle-nose pliers. Slowly pull the hose away from the housing. Keep a towel handy to soak up any fuel that leaks out, and be aware that some fuel may squirt out when the hose is removed since there may still be some pressure in the line.

This process is part of changing the fuel filter, which is recommended around every 50,000-60,000 miles.

Frequently asked questions