Changing Fuel Filter: 2005 Nissan Pathfinder Guide

Changing the fuel filter on a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is a relatively straightforward process. Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, a 10mm socket or wrench, and a #1 Phillips screwdriver. It is also important to relieve the pressure from the fuel system by removing the fuel pump fuse and allowing the engine to run until it stalls.

The fuel filter is located near the rear axle, above and in front of the rear differential. Once located, remove the filter from its bracket, being careful of any residual fuel that may leak out. Install the new filter, ensuring it is oriented in the correct direction, and reconnect the fuel lines. Finally, reinstall the fuel pump fuse, connect the negative battery cable, and start the engine to check for any leaks.

Relieve fuel line pressure

To relieve fuel line pressure in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove the fuel pump fuse

The fuel pump fuse can be found behind the coin drawer to the left of the steering wheel. Pull the fuse to cut power to the fuel pump.

Step 2: Start the vehicle

With the fuel pump fuse removed, start the vehicle. The engine will quickly use up the remaining fuel in the lines and stall.

Step 3: Crank the engine a few times

Crank the engine a few more times to ensure that all the fuel in the lines is consumed and the pressure is fully relieved.

Note: It is important to relieve the fuel line pressure before removing the fuel hoses from the filter. The fuel lines are under pressure, and removing the hoses without releasing the pressure will cause fuel to spray everywhere.

Locate the fuel filter

To locate the fuel filter in a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, follow these steps:

First, relieve the pressure from the fuel system by removing the fuel pump fuse in the panel. Then, start the engine and let it run until it stalls. Crank the engine a few more times to ensure all pressure is released.

Next, disconnect the negative battery cable and locate the fuel filter near the rear differential. It is usually found on the rear underside of the vehicle, above and in front of the rear differential. It is held in place by a bracket with a bolt.

Note the orientation of the filter, as fuel is designed to flow in a specific direction. The fuel flows from the driver's side to the passenger side. If there is an arrow on the new filter, ensure it points to the passenger side.

Before removing the filter, open the gas tank filler cap to relieve any residual pressure. The tank can become pressurised and cause fuel to stream out of the hose attached to the driver's side of the filter.

Now, you are ready to remove the fuel filter from its bracket. Have some rags ready to catch any leaking fuel.

Remove the filter from the bracket

To remove the filter from the bracket, you will need a 10mm socket or wrench. The filter is held in place by a bracket with a 10mm bolt. Remove the bolt and open the bracket. Since it's exposed and on the underside, it will probably be quite rusty, so take care when handling it.

If the hoses connected to the fuel filter are visibly cracked, you may want to use this opportunity to replace these hoses as well. It is important to note that since the fuel filter is part of the fuel system, you should not use a torch or other heat source to help loosen the bolt.

If the bolt is seized, you can try loosening it enough to bend the bracket open slightly and slip the old filter out. Alternatively, you can try clamping the two halves of the bracket together with vice-grips and then removing the bolt.

Remove clamps and hoses

To remove the clamps and hoses from your 2005 Nissan Pathfinder, follow these steps:

Step 1: Relieve the fuel line pressure

• Remove the fuel pump fuse, found behind the coin drawer to the left of the steering wheel.
• Start the vehicle. With no power to the fuel pump, it will quickly use up the fuel in the lines and then stall.
• Crank the vehicle a few times to make sure the fuel is consumed.

Step 2: Locate the fuel filter

The fuel filter is located on the rear underside of the vehicle, above and in front of the rear differential.

Step 3: Prepare for removal

• The hoses on either end are held on by a clamp with a #1 Phillips screw. Have some rags ready to catch any residual fuel that will leak out when you remove the hoses.
• If the hoses are visibly cracked, consider replacing them.

Step 4: Remove the clamps and hoses

• Loosen the Phillips screw with a #1 Phillips screwdriver.
• Pull off the hose by hand. Twisting it back and forth while pulling can help overcome resistance. Be careful not to use tools to remove the hose, as this may cause damage.

Now that you have removed the clamps and hoses, you can install your new fuel filter.

Attach the new filter

Now that you have removed the old fuel filter, it's time to attach the new one. Place the new fuel filter in the bracket, ensuring that it is in the same orientation as the old filter. The fuel flows from the driver's side to the passenger side. If your filter has an arrow on it, make sure it points to the passenger side.

The hoses on either end are held on by a clamp with a #1 Phillips screw. Tighten the screws on the clamps from 8.7 to 13.0 in-lb. If your bracket is damaged, you may need to use zip ties to hold the bracket closed.

Once the new filter is securely attached, reinstall the fuel pump fuse and reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the engine of your Nissan Pathfinder and check for any leaks. Repair any leaks you find.

Always let the pressure out of the fuel system before you disconnect the fuel lines. Do this carefully so as not to spray fuel on your skin or eyes. Before starting your vehicle, make sure to wipe up any fuel that may have spilled during the replacement process.

Frequently asked questions