Replacing Cartridge Fuel Filters: Step-By-Step Guide For Diyers

Changing a fuel filter is a regular part of vehicle maintenance. It is important to keep your fuel system properly maintained by changing the fuel filter to prolong the life of the fuel pump. Dirt in the fuel is captured by the filter, which clogs over time, causing a reduction in fuel pressure and volume in the fuel system. This can lead to a loss of power in your vehicle. This guide will cover the steps to take in order to successfully change a cartridge fuel filter.

Relieve the pressure in the fuel system

To relieve the pressure in the fuel system, you must first locate your vehicle's fuse box. This is because, to relieve the pressure, you will need to run the vehicle without the fuel pump functioning for a short time. By accessing the fuse box, you can prevent the fuel pump from turning on with the engine. Most vehicles have a fuse box in the interior and under the hood. You can refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to locate the appropriate fuse box.

Once you have located the correct fuse box, use a pair of needle-nose pliers or plastic tweezers to remove the fuse for the fuel pump. With the fuse removed, the fuel pump will not function when you start the engine. Ensure that your vehicle is not in gear. Although there will still be fuel left in the lines for the engine to start and run briefly, it is important to make sure automatic vehicles are in park and vehicles with a standard transmission are in neutral with the parking brake engaged.

Now, start the engine. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to start the motor as you usually would. The engine should start easily as it expends the fuel remaining in the fuel system past the fuel pump. Allow the engine to run for a minute or two before shutting it off. Without the fuel pump functioning, the pressure will be relieved in the fuel lines relatively quickly. However, allowing the engine to run until it dies may make it difficult to start again, so this is not recommended.

Finally, re-insert the fuel pump fuse. With the pressure relieved and the engine off, place the cover back on the fuse box and return any pieces of the trim that you may have needed to remove to access it. Make sure the vehicle is off before replacing the fuse, and do not start the engine again after inserting the fuel pump fuse.

Disconnect the battery

Disconnecting the battery is an important step in changing a cartridge fuel filter. It ensures that the engine cannot be started accidentally while you work on the fuel filter. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to disconnect the battery:

Locate the battery: The battery is usually located in the engine bay of the vehicle. It is typically a rectangular or cuboidal unit with two terminals, one positive (+) and one negative (-).

Identify the negative terminal: The negative terminal is usually marked with a "-" symbol or a black cover. It is important to disconnect the negative terminal first to avoid any potential sparks or electrical shorts.

Loosen the nut on the negative terminal: Use a hand or socket wrench to loosen the nut that holds the cable onto the negative terminal. You will need to loosen the nut completely to disconnect the cable. Ensure you do not strip the threads on the nut while loosening it.

Disconnect the negative cable: Once the nut is loosened, carefully pull the cable away from the negative terminal. You may need to wiggle the cable gently to detach it completely. Ensure that the cable does not touch any metal parts of the vehicle to avoid accidental electrical connections.

Secure the negative cable: After disconnecting the cable, tuck it safely away from the battery to prevent accidental contact with the terminal. You can use a cable tie or tape to secure it in place. Ensure that the cable cannot move and touch the positive terminal, as this could cause a short circuit.

Verify the disconnection: To ensure the battery is completely disconnected, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage between the negative and positive terminals. The reading should be zero or close to zero if the battery is successfully disconnected.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect the battery before proceeding with the fuel filter replacement. Remember to reconnect the battery once you have completed the work by attaching the negative cable back to the negative terminal and tightening the nut securely.

Locate the fuel filter

Locating the fuel filter is the first step to changing a cartridge fuel filter. It is important to note that the fuel filter's location varies depending on the vehicle.

The fuel filter is typically located along the fuel line, either under the car or in the engine bay. It is placed between two sections of the fuel line, usually under the car near the fuel tank. It will look like a small cylinder.

For most modern vehicles, the fuel filter is located along the fuel line on the bottom of the car, just past the fuel pump. In some vehicles, the fuel filter is located in the engine bay on the line that leads to the fuel rail.

If you are unsure about the location of your vehicle's fuel filter, refer to the owner's manual or the auto maker's website. Some vehicles may place the fuel filter inside the cabin, in the fuel tank, or in a different location, so it is important to consult the appropriate resources to determine the specific location.

Additionally, some vehicles have a fuel filter in the fuel pump or a filter screen inside the fuel tank. In such cases, it is recommended to seek the help of a trained technician to replace the filter safely.

Place a bowl or bucket beneath the fuel filter

Once you have located the fuel filter, it is important to prepare the area for the removal of the old filter and the installation of the new one. Place a bowl or bucket directly underneath the fuel filter to catch any fuel that may drip or pour out. This step is important as, even after relieving the pressure in the fuel line, there may still be some fuel left in the line that can spill out when disconnected from the fuel filter.

Be cautious when selecting a container to catch the fuel. Do not use a container that previously held oil or coolant. Gasoline should be held in its own container until it can be dropped off at a recycling location. Additionally, be careful when using a plastic container to hold gasoline, as it may eat through some types of plastic and cause a leak.

Before placing the bowl or bucket, you may need to jack up the car to access the fuel filter if it is located on the underside of your vehicle. Slide the jack under the car at one of its designated jack points, then either pump or twist the handle to raise the vehicle. Once the vehicle is jacked up, place jack stands underneath it before working under the vehicle. Remember, never rely on a jack to support the weight of a vehicle that you are working under.

Remove the clips holding the fuel filter in place

To remove the clips holding the fuel filter in place, you will need to locate the clips on either side of the cylindrical fuel filter. These clips are usually made of thin plastic and tend to break easily, so purchasing replacement clips along with your new fuel filter is advised. If you are able to remove them without breaking them, they may be reused. You can buy replacement clips at your local auto parts store.

Once you have located the clips, use a flat-head screwdriver to pop them out of the holes they are in. This will require some force, so be sure to use a screwdriver that is in good condition and has a sturdy tip. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges on the clips or fuel filter.

With the clips removed, you can then slide the fuel lines away from the filter and remove them from the nozzles on either end. Be sure to tip the fuel lines toward the bowl or bucket you have placed underneath to catch any spilled gasoline.

Frequently asked questions