Changing Fuel Filter On Chrysler Sebring: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel filter in a 2006 Chrysler Sebring is located in the fuel tank and is part of the fuel pump module. The fuel filter is always found between the fuel tank and the engine. In most vehicles, the fuel filter is located inside the top of the fuel tank, where it connects with the fuel line. However, according to one source, the 2006 Chrysler Sebring does not have a fuel filter. Instead, the pump draws fuel through a strainer.

Remove the fuel tank

To remove the fuel tank from a 2006 Chrysler Sebring, follow these steps:

First, ensure you start this job when your fuel tank is low. You will need to drain the fuel tank to replace the fuel filter.

Now, raise the hood and prop it open. Locate the power distribution center on the driver's side over the front wheel. Pull the fuel pump relay fuse (#28) out with your fingers. Then, turn the ignition and attempt to start the car; if it runs, allow it to stall. Turn off the ignition.

Next, relieve the pressure in the fuel tank by removing the gas cap. Remove the negative cable from the battery with an adjustable wrench.

Open the trunk and lift the left side of the floor mat. Now, locate the four-pin electrical connector of the fuel pump module and disconnect it from the harness. You should then be able to locate the rubber body grommet near the base of the rear seat. Push the grommet out and pass the wiring through the hole in the body.

Now, raise the rear of the car with a floor jack and lower the Sebring onto jack stands. Place a large fuel container under the fuel tank drain. Remove the plug and drain the fuel into the container. Replace the drain plug. Store the fuel away from sources of fire or sparks.

Position a transmission jack under the fuel tank and raise the jack so it supports the fuel tank. Disconnect the fuel tank strap on the driver's side by removing the bolts; loosen the strap on the passenger's side.

Finally, lower the transmission jack and the fuel tank will also be lowered.

Disconnect the fuel line

Disconnecting the fuel line on your 2006 Chrysler Sebring is a challenging but rewarding task. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

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Before beginning, ensure your safety by wearing protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and avoid any open flames or sparks. Start by raising the hood of your Sebring and locating the power distribution center on the driver's side, over the front wheel. Pull out the fuel pump relay fuse (#28) with your fingers. Then, turn the ignition and try to start the car. If it runs, let it stall and turn off the ignition. This step is crucial for relieving pressure in the fuel tank.

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Now, we'll move on to disconnecting the fuel line. First, open the trunk of your Sebring and lift the left side of the floor mat. Locate the four-pin electrical connector of the fuel pump module. This is where the fuel line connects to the pump. Disconnect the electrical connector from the harness by pushing down on the connector retainer and gently pulling it off. This step ensures that the fuel pump is no longer powered, making it safe to work on the fuel line.

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Next, locate the rubber body grommet near the base of the rear seat. This grommet provides a passage for the fuel line. Push the grommet out gently and carefully to avoid damaging it. You will now be able to access the fuel line more easily. Before proceeding, make sure to place a fuel container under the fuel tank to catch any fuel that may spill during the disconnection process.

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With the fuel container in place, carefully disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump module. This is usually done by depressing the quick connect retainers with your thumb and forefinger. Fuel may still be present in the line, so it is important to be cautious and have a rag ready to mop up any spills. Once the fuel line is disconnected, collect any leftover fuel in the container and ensure that the area is clean and free of fuel.

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After successfully disconnecting the fuel line, it is important to properly dispose of the collected fuel. Store it away from any sources of fire or sparks to prevent accidents. Additionally, ensure that you dispose of the fuel in an environmentally friendly manner by taking it to a designated disposal facility or recycling center.

By following these steps, you will have safely and effectively disconnected the fuel line on your 2006 Chrysler Sebring. Remember to work cautiously and always put your safety first when dealing with flammable liquids and vehicle repairs.

Disconnect the electrical connection

To disconnect the electrical connection of the fuel pump module, you must first open the trunk of your 2006 Chrysler Sebring. Once the trunk is open, lift the left side of the floor mat to expose the four-pin electrical connector of the fuel pump module. Next, disconnect the electrical connection by pulling the connector off the module.

Before disconnecting the electrical connection, you must relieve the pressure in the fuel tank by removing the gas cap. You should also remove the negative cable from the battery with an adjustable wrench.

Now, to access the fuel pump module, you will need to remove the rear seat cushion. First, remove the plastic cover, then clean the top of the tank to remove any loose dirt and debris. Once the area is clean, you can proceed to disconnect the electrical connection.

It is important to note that you should always work in a well-ventilated area when servicing your vehicle's fuel system. Avoid any sources of ignition, and never smoke while performing these tasks.

Remove the fuel pump and O-ring seal

To remove the fuel pump and O-ring seal, follow these steps:

First, release the fuel pressure. Next, remove the fuel tank. Caution: The fuel reservoir of the fuel pump module will not be empty when the tank is drained, so fuel will spill out when the module is removed. Then, disconnect the fuel line from the fuel pump module by depressing the quick-connect retainers with your thumb and forefinger. Now, slide the fuel pump module electrical connector lock to unlock it, then disconnect the electrical connection from the fuel pump module by pushing down on the connector retainer and pulling the connector off the module.

Next, mark the fuel pump location. Then, use a special tool (e.g. Spanner Wrench #9340) to remove the module lock ring. Finally, remove the fuel pump and O-ring seal from the tank. Discard the old seal.

Install a new fuel filter

Now that you have successfully removed the old fuel filter, it's time to install the new one. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Connect the new filter to the fuel lines: Start by connecting the new fuel filter to the fuel lines. Ensure that the filter is securely attached to the lines to prevent any leaks.
• Mount the new filter to the frame: Once the new filter is connected, mount it to the frame using the appropriate brackets or fasteners. Make sure it is securely mounted and won't move or vibrate during driving.
• Reattach the rubber body grommet and fuel pump module connector: After mounting the new filter, reattach the rubber body grommet and fuel pump module electrical connector into the body. These components ensure a secure and sealed connection for the fuel system.
• Raise the fuel tank back into place: Using a transmission jack, carefully raise the fuel tank back to its original position. Ensure that the tank is securely fastened and all connections are tight.
• Reattach the fuel tank straps and tighten the bolts: Secure the fuel tank in place by attaching the straps to the tank and tightening the bolts. Make sure the tank is stable and won't shift during driving.
• Reconnect the four-pin fuel pump module electrical connector: Locate the four-pin fuel pump module electrical connector in the trunk and reconnect it to the harness. Ensure that the connection is secure and correct.
• Replace the trunk mat: Put the trunk mat back in place. This helps to maintain a neat appearance and provides a layer of protection for the underlying components.
• Refill the fuel tank: Now, you can refill the fuel tank. Be careful not to overfill, and always follow safety precautions when handling fuel.
• Replace the fuel pump relay fuse under the hood: Go back to the engine compartment and replace the fuel pump relay fuse (#28) that you removed earlier. This fuse is typically located on the driver's side over the front wheel.
• Reconnect the negative clamp to the battery terminal: Finally, reconnect the negative clamp to the battery terminal. Ensure that the connection is secure and tight.
• Start the Sebring and test the system: With everything reconnected, start your Sebring to test the system. Ensure that the fuel system is functioning properly and there are no leaks.

Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about any steps, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Frequently asked questions