Replacing Fuel Filter In Subaru Crosstrek: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel filter in a Subaru Crosstrek is located inside the fuel tank, which can be accessed by removing the rear seat bottom cushion. The filter is part of the fuel pump assembly, so the entire unit must be removed and replaced. While it is possible to replace the filter yourself, it is a complex process that may result in a strong fuel smell in your car for several days afterward. The average cost to change a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207, but the cost of parts and labor for a Subaru Crosstrek may be higher. It is recommended that you replace your fuel filter every 5 years/50,000 miles, or every 75,000 miles/75 months, depending on the source.

The fuel filter is in the fuel tank

To replace the fuel filter on a Subaru Crosstrek, you must first locate the fuel tank. The fuel tank can be accessed by removing the rear seat bottom cushion. There will be an access panel for the tank under the rear seat cushion.

Once the access panel is located, the next step is to remove the pump/filter assembly. This will involve pulling out the assembly and dealing with the resulting fuel smell for several days after buttoning everything back up. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use clear plastic to separate the front and rear areas of the car, preventing the fuel smell from permeating the interior materials.

It is also important to ensure that the fuel tank is less than a quarter full before beginning this process, as this will reduce the mess and potential safety hazards associated with fuel handling. Additionally, only use LED lighting or flashlights when working in this area to avoid the risk of fire from gasoline fumes.

The fuel filter is part of the fuel pump assembly, so the entire unit must be removed to access the filter. The replacement interval for the fuel filter is recommended by Subaru to be every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 75 months, whichever comes first. However, some owners have reported going well beyond this interval without issues.

The cost of replacing the fuel filter can vary depending on whether it is done at a dealership or by an independent mechanic. The parts alone can range from $250 to $465, while labour costs can add an additional $100 to $400. It is also worth noting that some owners have chosen to replace the entire fuel pump assembly instead of just the filter, which can further increase the cost.

Access the tank through the rear seat

To access the tank through the rear seat of your Subaru Crosstrek, you'll first need to pull out the rear seat bottom cushion. There is an access panel for the tank under the rear seat.

Before you begin, ensure your fuel tank is less than a quarter full to avoid spillage and mess. It's also recommended to use LED lighting/flashlight to illuminate the space, as incandescent light bulbs can cause fires due to gasoline fumes.

Once you've located the access panel, you'll need to pull the pump/filter assembly. This will likely result in a strong fuel smell for several days after you've completed the process and buttoned everything up.

To minimise the smell, you can try taping up clear plastic to separate the front and rear areas of the car, as some Crosstrek owners have done. This will help to keep the fuel smell out of the material.

Pull the pump/filter assembly

To replace the fuel filter on a Subaru Crosstrek, you will need to pull the pump/filter assembly. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, locate the pump/filter assembly. The fuel filter on a Subaru Crosstrek is located inside the fuel tank. To access it, you will need to remove the rear seat bottom cushion. There will be an access panel for the tank under the cushion. Make sure to run the tank low on fuel before attempting this, as it will make the process easier and help relieve pressure in the system.

Once you have located the access panel, open it and look for the pump/filter assembly. The assembly is attached to the fuel pump and level sensor unit inside the tank. Before proceeding, ensure that you are using LED lighting or a flashlight to illuminate the space, as incandescent light bulbs can cause fires due to gasoline fumes.

Now, carefully remove the pump/filter assembly. The fuel filter is part of the fuel pump assembly, so you will need to remove the entire unit. This may be a tight fit, so be careful not to spill any fuel inside the car. The filter should snap off the bottom of the pump. Once you have removed the old filter, you can attach the new one. Make sure to get a proper seal when you're done.

Finally, button everything up and be prepared for your car to smell of fuel for the next several days. To help mitigate this, you can tape up clear plastic to separate the front and rear areas and keep the fuel smell out of the material.

Replace the whole fuel pump assembly

To replace the whole fuel pump assembly on a Subaru Crosstrek, you will need to access the fuel tank by removing the rear seat bottom cushion. There is an access panel for the tank under the rear seat.

Before starting, ensure your fuel tank is less than a quarter full to avoid spillage and only use LED lighting to illuminate the area, as incandescent light bulbs can cause fires in the presence of gasoline fumes.

You will need to remove the existing fuel pump assembly, which includes the fuel filter. This process can be completed by following the steps outlined in the relevant service manual for your vehicle's make and model. It is recommended to refer to this manual for specific instructions, as they may vary depending on the year and model of your Subaru Crosstrek.

After removing the old assembly, install the new fuel pump assembly, ensuring that all components are securely connected. This process may require specialized tools and mechanical knowledge, so if you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the procedure, it is best to consult a professional mechanic.

Once the new assembly is in place, you can re-install the rear seat bottom cushion and enjoy your refreshed fuel system.

Signs of a bad fuel filter

The fuel filter in a Subaru Crosstrek is located in the fuel tank, and replacement is recommended at intervals of 60,000 to 75,000 miles, or 75 months, whichever comes first. While there is some variation in the cost of replacing the fuel filter, it is generally an expensive procedure.

• Engine Not Starting or Sputtering : A clogged fuel filter may be the reason your engine is struggling to start or sputtering when you turn the ignition. This is because a dirty filter can starve the engine of fuel, causing it to crank longer.
• Engine Idling and Stalling: A clogged fuel filter will cause your engine to stutter and stall at low speeds. You may also notice more intense bouncing while idling.
• Misfiring Engine: A clogged fuel filter can lead to uneven fuel distribution and low fuel pressure, resulting in engine misfires.
• Poor Engine Performance: You may experience issues with speed, handling, and turning at high speeds, on inclines, or while carrying heavy loads. The engine may also surge or sputter due to a clogged filter interfering with fuel intake.
• Damaged Fuel Pump: A dirty fuel filter can cause the fuel pump to work harder to compensate, leading to potential damage.
• Poor Fuel Economy and Acceleration: If your vehicle's fuel mileage decreases, it could be due to dirty or clogged fuel filters hindering fuel from reaching the engine efficiently.
• Trouble Starting: If your car is having difficulty starting or won't start at all, a clogged fuel filter could be the culprit, especially if your battery and alternator are functioning properly.
• Vehicle Stalling: Repeated stalling of your vehicle could be due to a clogged fuel filter preventing sufficient fuel from reaching the engine.
• Misfiring or Rough Idling: Clogged fuel filters can cause low fuel pressure, making your vehicle struggle to stay running, even at idle speed.

Frequently asked questions