Replacing The Fuel Filter In A 2009 Accord: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel filter in a 2009 Honda Accord is located inside the top of the fuel tank, where it connects with the fuel line. While some sources suggest that the fuel filter in this model is a lifetime item that does not need to be replaced, others recommend changing it every 5 years/50,000 miles or every 40,000-80,000 miles. The cost of replacing a fuel filter in a Honda Accord is estimated to be between $292 and $319.

Disconnect the battery and relieve the fuel system pressure

To replace the fuel filter in a 2009 Honda Accord, you must first disconnect the battery and relieve the fuel system pressure. This is a crucial first step as it ensures your safety and makes it easier to remove or unplug the necessary parts.

Step 1: Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal

Locate the negative (black) terminal on your Honda Accord's battery. Use a wrench to loosen the nut securing the cable to the terminal. Once loose, carefully detach the cable from the battery terminal. Ensure that the cable does not touch any metal parts of the car to avoid short circuits.

Step 2: Relieve Fuel System Pressure

There are a few methods to relieve the fuel system pressure. One way is to simply remove the gas cap. This action allows gas pressure to escape from the fuel system. Another method is to loosen the gas pressure bolt at the end of the fuel rail. Remember to re-tighten the bolt once you're done with the job.

Alternatively, you can try the following method:

• Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
• Turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position.
• Ensure the HDS communicates with the ECM/PCM. If it doesn't, refer to the DLC circuit troubleshooting guide in your service manual.
• Turn the ignition switch to the "LOCK" position.
• Remove the fuel fill cap to relieve pressure in the fuel tank.
• Return the ignition switch to the "ON" position.
• From the HDS inspection menu, select "Fuel Pump OFF," then start the engine and let it idle until it stalls. Ensure the engine doesn't idle above 1,000 rpm, or the ECM/PCM will continue to operate the fuel pump.
• Turn the ignition switch back to the "LOCK" position.
• Perform the battery terminal disconnection procedure as outlined in your service manual.

By following these steps, you will successfully disconnect the battery and relieve the fuel system pressure in your 2009 Honda Accord, making it safe and ready for further maintenance or repairs.

Locate the fuel filter

The fuel filter in a 2009 Honda Accord is located between the fuel tank and the engine. In most vehicles, the fuel filter is located inside the top of the fuel tank, where it connects with the fuel line. However, in some cars, it might be located elsewhere along the fuel line.

For the 2008 Honda Accord, the fuel filter is integral to the fuel pump in the gas tank. It is located under the rear seat cushion, and to access it, you will need to remove the seat cushion and the fuel tank unit.

For the 8th generation Honda Accord, the fuel filter is not in-line like in most other cars. It is located under the trunk mat or the back seat, and it is not replaceable. When the fuel filter gets clogged, the fuel pump burns out, and you need to replace the pump and the filter as a unit.

Fuel filters are typically mounted to the undercarriage, on the main fuel line after the fuel pump. Some older vehicles may have the fuel filter mounted on the firewall, which is located on the passenger's side for the 1990-1994 Honda Accord models and at the rear of the engine for the 1995-2002 models.

Remove the lower fuel line and upper fuel line banjo bolt

To remove the lower fuel line and upper fuel line banjo bolt in a 2009 Honda Accord, follow these steps:

First, locate the fuel filter. In the 2009 Honda Accord, the fuel filter is located between the fuel tank and the engine. It is usually inside the top of the fuel tank, where it connects with the fuel line.

Once you have located the fuel filter, place a fluid catch pan underneath to catch any spilled gas. Then, use a 14mm wrench to loosen the nut on the lower fuel line by rotating it counterclockwise. Once loosened, pull the lower fuel line off and set it aside.

Next, use a 17mm flare nut wrench to loosen the banjo bolt on the upper fuel line. Again, rotate the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. After loosening, remove the upper fuel line by hand.

Now, you can proceed to replace the fuel filter and reattach the clamp. Remember to dispose of the old filter properly.

Before reconnecting the fuel lines, insert two new washers. Then, reconnect the upper fuel line and tighten the 17mm banjo bolt to a snug fit. Reconnect the lower fuel line and secure it with the 14mm bolt.

Finally, double-check that your fuel lines and bolts are properly secured. Ensure you have tightened all fittings securely before starting the engine.

Remove the clamp bolts

To remove the clamp bolts, locate the fuel filter. The fuel filter location is different depending on the model year of your Honda Accord. For models between 1990 and 1994, the fuel filter is located on the passenger's side firewall. For models between 1995 and 2002, the fuel filter is located at the rear of the engine, near the brake master cylinder.

Once you have located the fuel filter, use a 10 mm flare nut wrench to unfasten the two bolts from the clamp that hold the fuel filter in place. Rotate the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the bolts. Be sure to place a fluid catch pan under this area to catch any spilled gas.

After removing the clamp bolts, you can proceed to remove the fuel filter from the clamp and replace it with a new one.

Replace the fuel filter and reattach the clamp

Now that you have removed the old fuel filter, you can install the new one. First, unclip the alignment hole holding the top of the fuel filter in place, and then remove the fuel filter from the clamp. Dispose of the old filter responsibly and place the new fuel filter in the clamp. Then, insert the fuel filter clamp back to its original location and secure it with the two 10 mm bolts.

At this point, you should also inspect the washers on the upper fuel line and replace them if necessary. Your replacement filter may have come with replacement washers, so check the box if you haven't already installed them.

Now, reconnect the upper and lower fuel lines. Before reconnecting the upper fuel line, insert two new washers. Then, tighten the 17 mm Banjo bolt to a snug fit. Reconnect the lower fuel line, and secure it with the 14 mm bolt to a snug fit as well.

Double-check that your fuel lines and bolts are properly secured. You should have the following:

• One 14 mm bolt for the bottom fuel line
• One 17 mm Banjo bolt for the upper fuel line
• Two 10 mm bolts for the fuel filter bracket

Frequently asked questions