Replacing Fuel Filter: Step-By-Step Guide For Ve Commodores

The fuel filter on a Holden VE Commodore is located inside the fuel tank, and according to the manufacturer, it should last the lifetime of the pump. However, some Commodore owners have reported that the filter may need to be replaced sooner, and doing so can help improve performance and fuel economy while preventing drivability issues. Replacing the fuel filter can cost between $120 and $400, depending on the location of the filter. While it is possible to replace the filter yourself, it is important to exercise caution when working with fuel.

The fuel filter is located under the car, in front of the fuel tank

To change the fuel filter on a VE Commodore, you will first need to locate it. The fuel filter is located under the car, in front of the fuel tank. This will require you to get under the car, so it is recommended to use ramps to get the necessary access.

Once you have located the fuel filter, the next step is to release the pressure in the fuel lines before removing them. Start by removing the fuel cap to take the pressure off the tank. Then, open the bonnet and locate the "fuse and electrical centre" on the left wall. Remove the "fuel pump relay" by taking out the fuse. Try to start the engine and let it run until it dies. Then, turn the engine over for about 10 seconds.

At this point, you can proceed to remove the fuel lines from the fuel filter. Be cautious, as fuel may spill out under pressure. You can use a special tool to remove the fuel lines, or you may be able to use a standard pair of pliers by squeezing where the white circle is on the raised ridges. It is important to note the flow direction when disconnecting and reconnecting the fuel lines.

After removing the old fuel filter, install the new fuel filter by connecting it to the fuel lines. Ensure that the new filter is attached securely and that the flow direction is correct. You may also need to secure the fuel filter with a strap. Finally, replace the fuse and turn on the ignition to prime the fuel system.

Remove the fuel cap to release pressure from the tank

To change the fuel filter on a VE Commodore, the first step is to remove the fuel cap to release pressure from the tank. This is important for when you take off the fuel filter from the hoses. Removing the fuel cap will relieve the pressure in the fuel lines, which is necessary before removing the fuel filter.

Removing the fuel cap will cause the pressure to be released from the tank. This is an important step as it ensures that you do not get showered in fuel when you remove the fuel filter from the hoses. The fuel lines are under pressure, and without releasing it first, the fuel will pour out with force.

To do this, simply open the fuel filler door and unscrew the fuel cap. Once the cap is removed, set it aside in a safe place. With the fuel cap removed, the pressure in the tank will be released, and you can proceed to the next step of changing the fuel filter.

It is important to note that you are working with fuel, so take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Additionally, having a manual can be helpful for this process, providing step-by-step instructions specific to your car model.

Open the bonnet and find the 'fuse and electrical centre' on the left wall

To change the fuel filter on your VE Commodore, you'll first need to open the bonnet. Once the bonnet is open, you'll need to locate the fuse and electrical centre. This is usually located on the left wall, under the lid, you will find a map to the 'fuel pump relay'.

The fuse and electrical centre houses a variety of components related to the electrical system of your Commodore. It is important to familiarise yourself with this area before proceeding with any repairs or maintenance. The fuse box will contain a number of fuses that are responsible for protecting the electrical circuits in your vehicle. It is important to identify the correct fuse for the fuel pump before proceeding.

The electrical centre will also house a number of relays, including the fuel pump relay. Relays are switches that are controlled by electricity and are used to turn on and off various electrical components in your vehicle. The fuel pump relay is responsible for controlling the power to the fuel pump, so it is important to identify this relay before proceeding.

Once you have located the fuse and electrical centre, and identified the correct fuse and relay, you can proceed with the next steps in changing your fuel filter. Remember to exercise caution when working with any electrical components in your vehicle and always refer to a reputable repair manual for specific instructions pertaining to your vehicle.

Take out the 'fuel pump relay' and try to start the engine

To take out the fuel pump relay and try to start the engine of your VE Commodore, follow these steps:

First, remove the fuel cap to relieve pressure from the tank. This is important to prevent fuel from spraying out when you remove the fuel filter from the hoses. Then, open the bonnet and locate the "fuse and electrical centre". On a VT Commodore, this is on the left wall, under the lid, where you will find a map to the 'fuel pump relay'.

Take out the fuel pump relay and try to start the engine. The car will not start, but go ahead and turn the engine over for about 10 seconds.

Now, locate the fuel filter. It is towards the engine, in front of the fuel tank. You will need to get under the car to access it, so car ramps are recommended.

Next, remove the fuel filter from the hoses. Some forums suggest using a special tool from Holden to remove the fuel lines, but you can also use standard pliers by squeezing where the white circle is on the raised ridges. Be careful, as fuel will spill out.

At this point, you can install a new fuel filter. Make sure to secure it with the provided strap and test that it is attached properly by trying to pull the lines off. Finally, remember to put the fuel pump relay back in.

Turn the engine over for about 10 seconds

Now that you've removed the fuel cap and opened the bonnet to find the "fuse and electrical centre", it's time to turn your attention to the engine. Locate the engine and turn it over for about 10 seconds. This step is crucial and should not be skipped or rushed. It might be tempting to move on to the next step, but turning the engine over helps ensure that the fuel lines are depressurised, making the subsequent steps safer and less messy.

Once you've turned the engine over, you'll be ready to locate the fuel filter. It should be just in front of the fuel tank, towards the engine. This positioning is not a coincidence; Holden didn't want you fiddling with their cars, so they made it as difficult as possible to access the fuel filter. Now that you've found it, it's time to remove the fuel filter from the hoses. Be extremely careful during this step, as fuel will start pouring out.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try removing the fuel lines with a standard pair of pliers. Squeeze where the white circle is on the raised ridges. It might take some fiddling, but it's certainly possible to get them off without a special tool from Holden. Remember to work quickly during this step to minimise the amount of fuel that escapes.

Now that you've removed the fuel filter, you can install the new one. This process will involve some trial and error, as the pressure might cause the new filter to pop off a couple of times before it finally stays on. Don't be discouraged if this happens—just keep trying, and eventually, you'll get it to stay on. Remember to work quickly during this step as well, as you don't want fuel pouring down your arm or making a mess of your engine bay.

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