How to Change a Fuel Filter

Changing a vehicle fuel filter is a regular part of normal maintenance. Dirt in the fuel is captured in the filter and over time clogs the filter. The clogged filter reduces fuel pressure to the vehicle. A sign of a clogged filter is the vehicle stalls when climbing hills. Replace the filter at the manufacturer recommended interval.

Steps

Purchase the replacement filter.
Locate the old filter - it may be in the engine bar or under the car near the fuel tank.
If recommended by manufacturer follow procedure to remove fuel pressure.
Unscrew each hose clamp bolt until it nearly comes apart from the nut.
Push the clamp up the hose.
Remove the old filter and replace with new filter
Push clamps back down and tighten them.
Run the engine and check for leaks.

Tips

Check the rubber hoses for hardening and cracks. Replace the hoses if they are too stiff. Just loosen the clamps then cut the hose off, it’s much easier then trying to pull a stiff hose off the tube flange
Pull the old filter out and put the new one in as quick as possible. Can avoid having to clamp off the hose ends and loose fuel onto the ground

Warnings

WEAR EYE PROTECTION! You will likely be working over your head. Any dirt you may disturb will find its way into your eyes. What’s worse, however, is that there will likely still be fuel in the system and when you remove the filter, out it will come. You stand a good chance of being sprayed down, your EYES included. Getting fuel in your eyes is excruciating and can cause PERMANENT damage. If you do get fuel in your eyes, rinse your eyes with clean water for a minimum of 15 minutes and contact a doctor immediately.
Try not to breathe or get fuel on yourself. It may cause cancer, better be safe than sorry.

Things You’ll Need

Goggles, safety glasses or some other sort of eye protection
Replacement filter
Screwdriver to undo clamps
Container to catch fuel that leaks from hoses
Rags to clean up any spilled fuel, dispose of them if used.
Specialty tools. Some vehicles (most fuel injected Fords, for example) require the use of special tools to disconnect fuel fittings, including the fittings connecting the fuel filter. These tools should be available at the same parts store from which you purchased your fuel filter.