Replacing Saturn Ion Fuel Filter: Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel filter in your Saturn Ion is a simple task that can be completed in under an hour. Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary parts: a new fuel filter, a 3/8 fuel line quick disconnect tool, a 10mm socket and ratchet, a drain pan, and safety glasses. It is also recommended that you wear gloves and old clothes, as you will get gasoline on your hands and clothes during the process. Once you have gathered your parts and tools, follow these steps:

1. Remove the kick panel to access the fuse box.

2. Remove the fuel pump fuse.

3. Start the car and let it run until it dies.

4. Undo the gas cap.

5. Jack up the passenger side of the car and secure it with a jack stand.

6. Locate the fuel filter under the rear suspension of the car, towards the passenger rear wheel.

7. Undo the 10mm bolt holding the fuel filter bracket.

8. Disconnect the two quick-disconnect plugs from the fuel filter by squeezing the colored sides and pulling them off. Aim them towards the ground to drain the fuel into your drain pan.

9. Use the 3/8 fuel line quick disconnect tool to release the fuel line from the fuel filter.

10. Remove the old fuel filter by pulling it off the fuel line.

11. Slide the new fuel filter onto the fuel line until you hear a snap or click.

12. Attach the two quick-connect lines to the new fuel filter.

13. Reattach the 10mm bolt that holds the fuel filter bracket in place.

14. Reinstall the fuel pump fuse and close the fuse box.

15. Start the car and check for any leaks.

By following these steps, you can replace the fuel filter in your Saturn Ion, helping to protect your car's engine and maintain optimal fuel efficiency.

Remove the fuel pump fuse

To remove the fuel pump fuse from a Saturn Ion, follow these steps:

• Remove the kick panel to access the fuse box. The fuse box is located on the driver's side of the central console, behind the panel.
• Loosen the screw on the cover and remove it to access the fuses.
• Locate the fuel pump fuse in the fuse box. It will be labelled and is usually located on the BCM (Body Control Module).
• Remove the fuel pump fuse.

It is important to note that removing the fuel pump fuse will cut off the fuel pump's power supply, so ensure you have depressurised the fuel system and drained the fuel before proceeding.

Depressurise the fuel system

Depressurising the fuel system is an important step in replacing the fuel filter in your Saturn ION. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this safely and effectively:

Firstly, locate the fuse box inside your car on the passenger side. Remove the kick panel to gain access to it. The fuse box cover has a diagram that shows the location of the fuel pump fuse. After locating the fuel pump fuse, remove it.

Now, start the car and let it run until the engine dies. This step is crucial for depressurising the fuel system as it allows the fuel to drain out of the system. Be cautious, as some gasoline may trickle out. It is recommended to wear safety glasses and rubber gloves to protect yourself, and to use a drain pan to catch any spilling fuel.

Once the engine has stalled, turn off the car, and re-secure the fuel pump fuse. At this point, your fuel system should be depressurised. Remember to put the fuel pump fuse back in the fuse box before starting the car again.

It is important to note that the above steps are part of a larger process for replacing the fuel filter in your Saturn ION. Ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment before attempting this procedure, and always refer to a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.

Locate the fuel filter

To locate the fuel filter of a Saturn ION, you need to first release the fuel pressure. Remove the kick panel to access the fuse box and then remove the fuel pump fuse. Next, start the car and let it run until it dies. Undo the gas cap. Jack up the passenger side of the car and support it with a jack stand to gain access under the rear of the passenger side.

The fuel filter is a small, round canister located under the rear suspension of the car towards the passenger rear wheel. Undo the 10mm bolt holding the fuel filter bracket. There are two Quick Disconnect plugs on one end of the fuel filter. One is light blue and the other is dark blue. Unplug them both by squeezing the coloured sides and pulling them off the fuel filter. Then, aim them down towards the ground to drain the fuel into a drain pan.

Disconnect the fuel lines

Disconnecting the fuel lines is a crucial step in replacing the fuel filter in your Saturn Ion. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools, including a 3/8" fuel line quick-disconnect tool and a 10mm socket and ratchet. It is also important to wear safety gear, such as safety glasses and rubber gloves, as you will be handling gasoline. Place a drain pan under the fuel filter to catch any spillage.

To start, locate the fuel filter. It is a small, round canister located under the rear suspension of the car, towards the passenger rear wheel. Once you have found it, follow these steps:

• Remove the kick panel to access the fuse box.
• Remove the Fuel Pump fuse.
• Start the car and let it run until it dies. This will release the fuel pressure and drain the fuel from the system.
• Jack up the passenger side of the car and secure it with a jack stand to gain access to the underside of the car.
• Locate the fuel filter and identify the two Quick Disconnect plugs on one end. One is light blue, and the other is dark blue.
• Unplug both connectors by squeezing the coloured sides and pulling them away from the fuel filter. Aim them towards the drain pan to catch any fuel spillage.
• Take the 3/8" fuel line quick disconnect tool and slide it onto the fuel line on the other side of the fuel filter.
• Insert the tool towards the filter to release the prongs holding the filter onto the fuel line.
• Pull the fuel filter off the fuel line. This may require a firm pull as it is held on tightly.

At this point, the fuel lines will be disconnected from the old fuel filter. You can now proceed to install the new fuel filter by following the reverse steps. Ensure that you securely attach the fuel lines to the new filter and that all connections are tight to prevent leaks.

Remember to work carefully and safely when handling gasoline and working underneath your vehicle.

Insert the new filter

Now that you have removed the old fuel filter, it's time to insert the new one.

First, if you are using an aftermarket filter, you will need to use the bracket from the old filter. Remove the old filter from its bracket, and slide the new filter into place.

Next, attach the bracket back in place by inserting the tubes onto the fuel filter.

Then, put back the two bolts that secure the fuel filter housing.

Finally, attach the bolt that holds the brake cable.

You are now ready to insert the fuel pump fuse and start the car.

Frequently asked questions