Engine repairs can be costly and could keep your vehicle in the shop for an extended period. Wouldn’t it be great if there was something easy and inexpensive you could do to help protect your engine and keep it running clean? Wait! There is! Pay a little extra attention to the fuel filter.
WHY IS THE FUEL FILTER SO IMPORTANT?
The fuel filter screens debris and keeps it from entering the fuel system.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU’RE DRIVING WITH A CLOGGED FUEL FILTER?
Here are five of the bad fuel filter symptoms to watch for:
- You have a hard time starting car. If the problem is the fuel filter, and it isn’t changed soon, you may find that your vehicle won’t start at all.
- Misfire or rough idle. A dirty fuel filter could prevent the engine from getting enough fuel.
- Vehicle stalling. No one wants to suddenly stop in traffic! But that’s what could happen if you’re driving with a filter that’s passed its prime.
- Fuel system component failure. electric fuel pumps can fail prematurely trying to push fuel through a dirty fuel filter.
- Loud noises from the fuel pump. Sudden, unusual noises could be your vehicle’s way of letting you know something is wrong.
DRIVE TOO LONG WITH A CLOGGED FUEL FILTER AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COULD COME ON
Many vehicles have sensors that monitor the fuel system. When the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or Check Engine Light comes on, it means the sensors have detected a problem.
These serious problems may have a simple, affordable solution: change the filter. Consistent, timely fuel filter maintenance is important to dependable drivability. A fresh filter reduces contaminants and helps prevent damage to your engine and fuel system.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE FUEL FILTER BE CHANGED?
It’s often recommended that the filter should be changed every 2 years or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first), but that’s a general suggestion. If you drive a great deal on unpaved roads, or through highway construction which can kick up a lot of dust and debris you may want to change your fuel filter more often. You should consult your vehicle owner’s manual for the recommended interval for your specific vehicle.