The fuel filter prevents dust from entering the vehicle's engine, and replacing or cleaning it regularly is essential. If the filter is nylon or hard, you just need to replace it with a new one. If the filter is metal and not too dirty, you can clean and reuse it. Before starting, release the pressure on the fuel system and remove the battery. Remove the filter from the fuel line, then spray it with cleaning fluid. Allow it to dry for about an hour, then reinstall the filter, insert the battery, and start the engine as usual.
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Method 1 of 3: Removing the Filter
Step 1. Release pressure on the fuel system
Check the user manual for the fuel pump fuse. Remove the object, then run the engine for 1 to 2 minutes. The machine may vibrate before the time is up. This indicates that the pressure has been released.
- Even if the engine vibrates, it is necessary to release the pressure. Turning it on for 1 to 2 minutes will trigger the vibration.
- Make sure your car is parked in a flat and well-ventilated area.
Step 2. Disconnect the negative terminal on the battery
Turn off the car, then open the hood. Look for the negative terminal on the car battery, then use a wrench to remove the wire. Tuck this wire to the side of the battery so that it doesn't accidentally touch the terminals.
- The negative terminal is marked with a minus sign (-), while the positive terminal has a plus sign (+). If the terminals are red and black, the negative terminal is the black one.
- If you do not unplug the battery, a spark can ignite gas vapors and residue that drips from the fuel line.
Step 3. Find the fuel filter
This location varies greatly, depending on the make and model of the car. So, check the user manual. The filter is generally in the fuel line, between the engine and the fuel tank. One of the most common places is under the car, right next to the fuel pump. On some car models, this object is placed in the engine bay.
Step 4. Lift the car with a jack if necessary
Slide the jack into the bottom of one of the car's jack points, then pump or turn the handle of the tool to lift the car. Place the jack holder near the jack, then lower it until the car is attached to it.
- Check the vehicle manual for jack points on your car.
- Do not rely on the jack alone to support the weight of the vehicle. Never work under a car that is not supported by a jack mount.
Step 5. Place a bucket or jar under the filter to collect the fuel
When removing the fuel line from the filter, the remaining fuel in the line will flow out. Place a bucket or jar under the filter area to collect the liquid.
Step 6. Remove the clamp that secures the fuel line to the filter
The design of the clamp that secures the fuel line to the filter varies greatly by model. Check your vehicle manual or search online for information based on your car's design. Usually, the object can be opened with a flat-head screwdriver or by hand.
Step 7. Remove the fuel line
Use a wrench or hose clamp to remove the fuel line from the filter. Remove the channels from the nozzles on both sides of the filter. When removing it, make sure you tilt the line toward the bucket or jar to catch any dripping fuel.
Wear gloves and eye protection when removing the fuel line
Step 8. Remove the filter from its bracket
Depending on the vehicle model, you will usually need to remove the filter from the bracket or remove the securing bolt. Look at your car's filter for the position of the retaining bolt or consult your vehicle's manual.
Before removing the filter, mark its initial position so you know how to put it back in properly
Method 2 of 3: Cleaning the Filter
Step 1. Remove the remaining fuel in the filter
There may be fuel residue in the filter. Gently tap the fuel nozzle in and out over the container you are using to collect any remaining fuel from the fuel line.
The two spouts are located at either end of the filter
Step 2. Spray the filter with a pressurized carburetor cleaner
Purchase cleaners that are sold in high-pressure cans with small applicator straws. Connect the straws to the filter nozzle, then spray the inside of each nozzle.
You can find high-pressure cleaners at your nearest auto store. Ask for recommendations from the staff there for products that are safe to use on fuel filters
Step 3. Remove the smudged dust, then dry the filter for one hour
Gently tap the filter against the side of the container you are using to collect the remaining fuel. Allow the cleaning fluid and smudged dust to fall from each spout. Spray the nozzle again, knock out the dust, then allow the filter to dry on its own for at least 1 hour.
Method 3 of 3: Replacing the Filter
Step 1. Insert the filter back into its bracket
Make sure you insert the filter back into the bracket in its original position. If necessary, replace the bolt you removed earlier.
Step 2. Replace the fuel line and clamp
Replace the fuel line on each filter nozzle. Make sure you screw it in tightly so there are no leaks. After that, replace the safety clip of the channel to its previous place.
Step 3. Lower the car if necessary, then reconnect the battery and fuse
If you are lifting the car with a jack, raise the jack to remove the mount, then lower it to the ground. Use a wrench to reattach the wire to the negative terminal of the battery and return the fuel pump fuse to its original position.
Step 4. Start the engine and check for fuel leaks
After replacing the battery and fuse, start the engine for a few minutes. Since the fuel pressure system has to be rebuilt, the engine usually needs to be started several times before it actually starts. When it's on, check the area under the car for fuel leaks.
- If there is a leak, you will need to remove the battery, jack up the car (if necessary), and tighten the fuel line.
- If the engine does not start after a few minutes, check the fuse again. If the lights on the dashboard and cab appear dim or won't turn on, the battery may need an electric shock. If the fuse and battery are still good, make sure you have installed the filter correctly and the fuel line is tight. Contact a mechanic if all the methods above don't work.
Step 5. Get rid of the old fuel residue
If the fuel collected from the fuel line and filter is not badly contaminated with dust, you can use it on a lawn mower or other gasoline powered equipment. If the liquid is full of dust and cannot be used, transfer it to a gas tank and take it to the nearest waste disposal center.
- To find a landfill, contact the waste management authority in your city or area. You can also contact the nearest repair shop and ask if they provide free waste fuel disposal services.
- It's best not to throw gasoline in the trash or into the sewer even a little bit because it's illegal in some areas.
- Keep the container sealed during the transfer process and never smoke or start a fire near gasoline.
