Fuel Filter Maintenance: Entourage Vehicle Care Tips

The fuel filter in your car plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal fuel flow to the engine. Located between the fuel tank and the engine, it is responsible for filtering the fuel pumped by the fuel pump. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged, leading to a reduction in fuel flow and subsequent performance issues. For the Hyundai Entourage, it is generally recommended to replace the fuel filter every 5 years or 50,000 miles, although this may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. Regular maintenance of the fuel filter is essential to maintain the performance and fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Fuel filter replacement cost

The cost of replacing a fuel filter will depend on the make and model of your car, as well as your location. The average cost to change a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207, with labour costs making up $91 to $114 of that amount.

For example, the fuel filter replacement cost for a 2012 Honda Civic is said to be anywhere from $75 to $200, with one user reporting a cost of $450 AUD.

For a 2008 Hyundai Entourage, the average cost to change the fuel filter is between $90 and $207 (including parts and labour).

It is recommended that you replace your fuel filter every 5 years/50,000 miles, but you may need to do it more often depending on your driving habits and environment.

If you are mechanically-minded, you may be able to replace the fuel filter yourself. Be sure to take the necessary safety precautions and refer to a reputable step-by-step guide.

Fuel filter location

The fuel filter in a Hyundai Entourage is located between the fuel tank and the engine. In most vehicles, the fuel filter is found 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.

The fuel tank air filter, on the other hand, is found inside the left rear wheel well of the Entourage van. This filter is not pressurized and is about as difficult to change as the oil.

It is recommended that the fuel tank air filter be changed every 30,000 miles or 30,000 km.

Signs of a bad fuel filter

The fuel filter plays an important role in your car's performance by screening large debris and preventing it from entering the fuel system. A clogged fuel filter can wreak havoc on an engine, so it's important to know the signs of a bad fuel filter. Here are some detailed symptoms that indicate it's time to replace your fuel filter:

• Difficulty Starting the Engine: When you turn the ignition, a clogged fuel filter restricts the flow of fuel from the tank to the engine, making it difficult for the engine to start. You may need to attempt multiple times before the engine finally turns over.
• Sluggish Acceleration and Poor Engine Performance: A clogged filter restricts the gas flow during acceleration, causing the engine to hesitate or stumble as it struggles to get enough fuel for increased power and speed. This can result in sluggish throttle response and decreased power, especially when driving at high speeds, on inclines, or when carrying heavy loads.
• Rough Idling: A clogged fuel filter can cause the fuel to not combust properly, leading to rough idling. You may experience more intense vibrations or lurching when accelerating, indicating a clogged fuel filter.
• Excessive Vibration While Driving: The engine may feel shaky and unstable, even when driving at low speeds, due to inconsistent fuel supply.
• Stalling: A severely clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to stall frequently, especially at idle. This can be dangerous if it occurs while you're driving.
• Poor Fuel Economy: An engine with a clogged fuel filter may not fully combust the fuel, leading to decreased power and increased fuel consumption.
• Whining and Unusual Sounds: The fuel pump motor has to work harder when the fuel filter is clogged, which can result in whining or buzzing sounds. The engine may also make unusual noises as if it's choking and about to stall.
• Unusual Odours: In some cases, a clogged fuel filter can cause unburnt fuel to escape through the exhaust, resulting in a strong gas odour inside the cabin.
• Check Engine Light: Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged fuel filter can trigger the check engine light to come on.

It's important to note that while these symptoms may indicate a bad fuel filter, they could also be caused by other issues. Therefore, it's always recommended to consult a professional mechanic or a specialist service centre to properly diagnose and address the problem.

How often to change the fuel filter

The fuel filter in your car plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal engine performance. It is responsible for filtering out impurities from the fuel before it enters the engine, similar to how an air filter purifies the air you breathe. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the fuel filter regularly to keep your car running smoothly.

On average, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter every 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, this interval may vary depending on several factors, such as the age of your car, your driving habits, and the conditions in which you drive. For newer vehicles, the interval can be longer, with some sources suggesting a replacement at around 60,000 miles. In contrast, older vehicles may require a filter change more frequently, approximately every 30,000 miles.

It is worth noting that the location of the fuel filter can vary between vehicles, so it is advisable to refer to your car's documentation to determine its exact position. The fuel filter is typically located between the fuel tank and the engine, often inside the top of the fuel tank where it connects to the fuel line.

To ensure optimal performance and avoid engine strain, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter regularly. A clogged filter can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, decreased engine power, and even engine failure in severe cases. Additionally, a dirty filter can cause problems with starting the car, stalling, excessive vibration while driving, and sluggish acceleration. Therefore, it is essential to keep track of the months or miles since the last replacement and schedule an appointment for a new one as needed.

Some car owners choose to change their fuel filters more frequently, such as every other oil change or every 10,000 miles, to ensure optimal performance and prevent any potential issues. This interval is especially recommended for diesel engines, as fuel filters are crucial to the proper functioning of these engines.

Steps to change the fuel filter

Step 1: Relieve the pressure in the fuel system

• Locate your vehicle's fuse box, which is usually found in the interior or under the hood.
• Remove the fuse for the fuel pump using needle-nose pliers or plastic tweezers.
• Ensure the vehicle is not in gear and the parking brake is engaged.
• Start the engine and let it run for a minute before shutting it off.
• Re-insert the fuel pump fuse.

Step 2: Remove the old fuel filter

• Disconnect the battery by loosening the nut holding the cable onto the negative terminal.
• Locate the fuel filter, which is commonly found along the fuel line on the bottom of the car or in the engine bay.
• Jack up the car if the fuel filter is located on the underside.
• Place a bowl or bucket under the fuel filter to catch any fuel drips.
• Remove the clips holding the fuel filter in place using a flat-head screwdriver.
• Remove the fuel lines from the filter by sliding them away and tipping them toward the bowl or bucket.
• Slide the fuel filter out of its bracket.

Step 3: Install a new fuel filter

• Compare the new filter to the old one to ensure they have the same outside diameter and nozzle size.
• Slide the new fuel filter into the bracket until it stops.
• Fasten the fuel filter to the fuel line by sliding the lines onto the nozzles and securing them with plastic clips.
• Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and reconnect the battery.

When to Change Fuel Filters

It is recommended to change the fuel filter every 5 years/50,000 miles, but this may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. Refer to the owner's manual for specific maintenance intervals.

Frequently asked questions