Replacing Fuel Filter In 2003 Chevy Impala: Step-By-Step Guide

how to replace 2003 chevy impala fuel filter

The fuel filter in a 2003 Chevy Impala is located under the car, near the rear, close to the fuel tank. It is held by a clamp collar attached to the car's body. To replace the fuel filter, you will need to remove the bolt holding the bracket using two wrenches (16mm and 20mm). Then, use a screwdriver to remove the filter from the pipeline, being careful as some fuel will drain out. Insert the new filter into the bracket, reattach the pipeline, and secure it back to the car by tightening the bolt. The average cost for this replacement is $175.87 - $194.08, with $4 for parts and $140 for labour.

Characteristics Values
Car Model 2003 Chevrolet Impala
Engine V6-3.4L
Shop/Dealer Price $175.87 - $194.08
Fuel Filter Location Underneath the car, in the rear, close to the fuel tank
Fuel Filter Holder Clamp collar attached to the car's body
Fuel Filter Replacement Interval Every 30,000 miles or according to manufacturer specifications
Tools Required Two wrenches (16 mm and 20 mm), screwdriver, connection removal tool, jack stands
Procedure Remove bolt holding bracket, remove filter from pipeline, insert new filter, reattach pipeline, tighten bolt, check for leaks

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The fuel filter is located under the car, near the rear and fuel tank

To replace the fuel filter on a 2003 Chevy Impala, you'll first need to locate it. The fuel filter is located under the car, near the rear and the fuel tank. Specifically, it's on the driver's side, underneath by the rear, in front of the rear tire.

Once you've located the fuel filter, you can start the process of replacing it. Here are the steps you can follow:

  • Take the fuel cap off and push the flapper in on the fill neck to reduce fuel pressure. This step is not necessary, but it will help prevent getting fuel everywhere. Alternatively, you can release the pressure with the release valve on the fuel pressure regulator under the hood.
  • Use a crescent wrench to remove the fuel filter. One side of the filter should have a nut, and the other side has a plastic clip with two prongs.
  • Install the new fuel filter. Use a small amount of oil on the O-rings to ease the re-installation of the quick-connect fittings.
  • Check the fuel system for leaks while the engine is running.

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You'll need to remove the bolt holding the bracket, using two wrenches

To remove the bolt holding the bracket, you will need two wrenches: a 16mm and a 20mm. With these two wrenches, you can get the bolt out. It is important to have the right size wrenches for this task to ensure that you can effectively loosen and remove the bolt.

Once you have the correct tools, position yourself so that you can access the bolt holding the bracket. Place one wrench on the bolt head and the other wrench on the nut. Hold the bolt with one wrench and turn the nut counter-clockwise with the other wrench to loosen it. Keep turning the nut with one wrench in a counter-clockwise direction while holding the bolt with the other wrench until the nut is fully loosened and can be removed by hand.

After removing the nut, you can now take out the bolt. Hold the bolt with one wrench and turn it counter-clockwise to unscrew it from the bracket. If the bolt is tight, you may need to apply some force to turn it. Once the bolt is loose, you can unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.

With the bolt removed, you can now separate the bracket and access the fuel filter for replacement. Be sure to have a replacement fuel filter ready and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.

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Remove the filter from the pipeline with a screwdriver

To remove the filter from the pipeline with a screwdriver, you will need to first locate the fuel filter. In the 2003 Chevy Impala, the fuel filter is located underneath the car, towards the rear, close to the fuel tank.

Now, to remove the filter from the pipeline, follow these steps:

  • Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamp collar attached to the car's body that holds the fuel filter in place.
  • Carefully, use your hands or a pair of pliers to wiggle the filter free from the pipeline. Some fuel might drain out, so be cautious and prepared for this.
  • Once the filter is free, set it aside and get ready to install the new one.

It is important to note that you should always wear proper eye protection during this process and ensure that you have relieved the fuel pressure before starting. Additionally, the new fuel filter will have an arrow indicating the direction in which it should be installed.

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Insert the new filter, reattach the pipeline, and tighten the bolt

Now that you have removed the old fuel filter, it's time to install the new one. Remember to check the signs on the new fuel filter. There should be an arrow drawn on it, indicating the direction in which it should be installed.

First, insert the new filter into the bracket. Next, reattach the pipeline. Be careful not to spill any fuel. Once the pipeline is back in place, attach it to the car by tightening the bolt. You will need two wrenches (16mm and 20mm) to tighten the bolt securely.

After the new filter is in place, you will need to check for leaks. Put the ignition on for a few seconds, then start the engine and look under the car for any signs of leakage. It is important to be cautious and wear proper eye protection during this process.

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Check for leaks by turning on the ignition and starting the engine

To check for leaks, turn the ignition on and off a couple of times for a few seconds each time. Then start the engine and look under the car for any signs of leakage.

It is important to check for leaks because there should be zero leakage of fuel, whether liquid or vapour, in the fuel system. If there is a leak, it is recommended to have it repaired before driving the car.

If clogging is suspected and potentially causing engine operating problems, have the cause investigated and resolved as soon as possible. In extreme cases, a very old filter that may be plugged could disintegrate, allowing trapped contaminants to reach the fuel injectors and causing additional problems.

Frequently asked questions

The fuel filter is located under the car, in the rear, close to the fuel tank.

The fuel filter should be changed according to the manufacturer's specifications or at least every 30,000 miles.

You will need two wrenches (16mm and 20mm) and a screwdriver. A connection removal tool can also be useful, and you can get one at your local parts store.

Always wear proper eye protection during the replacement. Remember to remove the fuel pressure before replacing the fuel filter.

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