Changing The Fuel Filter On Your Mitsubishi Diesel

Changing the fuel filter is a part of regular car maintenance. It is important to keep your fuel system properly maintained by changing the fuel filter as it prolongs the life of the fuel pump. Dirt in the fuel is captured by the filter, which clogs over time, causing it to operate less efficiently. This results in reduced fuel pressure and volume in the fuel system, which can cause a loss of power in your vehicle.

While there are generic guidelines for changing a fuel filter, it is important to refer to specific instructions for your Mitsubishi model. Online forums and video tutorials can provide step-by-step guides for changing the fuel filter in Mitsubishi models such as the Mitsubishi Pajero, ASX, and Colt. It is recommended to consult these resources or refer to a repair specialist for detailed instructions on how to change the fuel filter in your Mitsubishi diesel vehicle.

Relieving the pressure in the fuel system

Before changing the fuel filter of your Mitsubishi diesel, it is important to relieve the pressure in the fuel system. This is because diesel engine fuel systems are under a lot of pressure, and accidentally releasing this pressure could result in injury. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Locate Your Vehicle's Fuse Box

To relieve the pressure in your fuel system, you will need to temporarily prevent the fuel pump from functioning. This can be done by locating and removing the fuel pump fuse. Most vehicles have a fuse box both in the interior and under the hood, so refer to your Mitsubishi's owner's manual to locate the correct fuse box.

Remove the Fuse for the Fuel Pump

Once you have located the correct fuse box, use the diagram provided on the fuse box cover or in the owner's manual to identify the fuse that powers the fuel pump. You can use a pair of needle-nose pliers or plastic tweezers to remove the fuse. With the fuse removed, the fuel pump will not function when you start the engine.

Ensure the Vehicle is Not in Gear

Although the engine will not receive fuel from the tank, there will still be some fuel left in the lines. Ensure that automatic vehicles are in park and vehicles with a standard transmission are in neutral with the parking brake engaged. This is to prevent the vehicle from moving when you start the engine.

Start the Engine

Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to start the engine. The engine should start easily as it expends the remaining fuel in the fuel system. Allow the engine to run for about a minute before shutting it off. Do not let it run until it dies, as this may make it difficult to start again.

Re-insert the Fuel Pump Fuse

With the engine off and the pressure relieved, you can now re-insert the fuse that powers the fuel pump. Make sure to replace the cover on the fuse box and return any pieces of trim that you removed to access it. Do not start the engine again after inserting the fuse.

Disconnecting the battery

Locate the battery: The battery is typically located in the engine bay, on the side or at the back. It is usually held in place by a metal bracket or clamp.

Gather the necessary tools: You will need a wrench or socket set to loosen the nut or bolt holding the battery cable in place. A pair of gloves can also be useful to protect your hands from dirt or any corrosive buildup on the battery terminals.

Identify the positive and negative terminals: The positive terminal is usually marked with a "+" sign, while the negative terminal is marked with a "-" sign. The positive terminal often has a red cover, while the negative terminal may have a black or green cover.

Loosen the nut or bolt holding the negative cable: Use your wrench or socket to loosen the connection. You may need to turn it clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the setup. Do not remove the nut or bolt completely; just loosen it enough so that the cable can be disconnected.

Disconnect the negative cable: Once the nut or bolt is loosened, carefully pull the cable away from the negative terminal. Ensure that the cable does not touch any metal parts of the car, as this could cause a short circuit.

Secure the negative cable: Tuck the disconnected cable away from the battery and any metal components to prevent accidental contact. You can use a cable tie or tape to secure it in place if needed.

Work safely: With the negative cable disconnected, your Mitsubishi's electrical system is now inactive, and the engine cannot be started. This ensures that you can work safely on other components without the risk of accidental engine startup.

Re-connect the battery: Once you have finished your repairs or maintenance, remember to reconnect the negative cable to the battery terminal and tighten the nut or bolt securely. Ensure that the cable is firmly connected before starting your Mitsubishi diesel.

By following these steps, you can safely disconnect and reconnect the battery in your Mitsubishi diesel, ensuring your safety during maintenance or repair work.

Locating the fuel filter

The fuel filter in modern vehicles is typically located along the fuel line at the bottom of the car, just past the fuel pump. Alternatively, it may be found in the engine bay, attached to the fuel line leading to the fuel rail. However, the exact location of the fuel filter can vary depending on the Mitsubishi model you own.

For Mitsubishi models like the Pajero, Shogun, Montero, Challenger, Raider, and EVO 4x4, the fuel filter is usually accessible from the underside of the vehicle. You may need to jack up the car to gain better access to this area. Always use jack stands and follow proper safety procedures when working underneath a vehicle.

On the other hand, if you own a Mitsubishi ASX, the fuel filter's location may differ. Refer to your vehicle's service manual or consult a Mitsubishi-specific online forum or a Mitsubishi specialist for exact locations and replacement procedures.

Additionally, some vehicles may have the fuel filter located inside the cabin, or it may be integrated into the fuel pump assembly, which is often situated inside the fuel tank. In such cases, it is recommended to seek assistance from a trained technician for the replacement.

Once you have located the fuel filter, place a bowl or bucket underneath it to catch any fuel that may spill during the removal process. It is important to take the necessary precautions and wear protective gear, including eye protection and gloves, when handling fuel.

Placing a container under the filter

To change the fuel filter on a Mitsubishi diesel vehicle, you must first relieve the pressure in the fuel system and disconnect the battery. You will then need to locate the fuel filter. In modern vehicles, the most common location is along the fuel line on the bottom of the car, just past the fuel pump. Place a bowl, bucket, or a large jar underneath the fuel filter to catch any fuel that drips or pours out when you disconnect the fuel lines.

It is important to use a container that is suitable for holding fuel. Do not mix the fuel with oil or coolant, and be careful when using plastic containers as the fuel may eat through some kinds of plastic and cause a leak.

Before placing the container, you will need to disconnect the wires from the water sensor and let them drop down. Depending on how tight the filter is, you may be able to spin it off by hand or use a chain wrench to loosen it. Once the filter is removed, you can pour the fuel into the container and inspect it for any water or residue.

These steps are crucial to ensure a safe and effective fuel filter change on your Mitsubishi diesel vehicle.

Removing the clips holding the fuel filter

To remove the clips holding the fuel filter in place, you will need a flat-head screwdriver. Most fuel filters are held in place by two plastic clips, which you will find on either side of the cylindrical fuel filter.

Use the flat-head screwdriver to pop the clips out of the holes they sit in. Take care when doing this, as the clips are made of thin plastic and tend to break easily. If you are able to remove them without breaking them, they may be reused. However, it is recommended that you purchase replacement clips along with your new fuel filter, in case they do break.

You can purchase replacement fuel filter clips at your local auto parts store.

Frequently asked questions