How To Change Your Petrol Fuel Filter

Your car’s fuel filter protects the engine, combustion chamber and the vehicles injectors from any impurities with the fuel. Petrol fuel filters eliminate the likes dust, and rust from the vehicles fuel.

Fuel filters should be changed based on your vehicles schedule, typically at over 30,000 miles. If you experience drops in performance or misfiring, it may be worth checking the fuel filter.

Parts and tools required

• Socket Set
• Oil Pan
• Narrow Pliers
• Jack and Axel Stand
• Penetrating Oil
• Disposable Gloves

Please Note: this process will vary vehicle by vehicle. This is a generic process, but you should consult your owner’s manual for exact instructions for your make and model. You’ll be working in and around fuel – be cautious at all times as it can be very dangerous.

Step 1 - De-pressurise the fuel system

Before you begin, you’ll need to relieve the pressure in the fuel lines to work safely.To do this:
Locate the car fuse box - Use your owner’s manual to find which fuse box contains the fuel pump fuse or relay.
Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay - The fuse box should have a diagram identifying each fuse and relay. Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay by hand, or with tweezers if easier.
Make sure the car is in park or neutral with the handbrake on - Leftover fuel in the lines could enable the car to move, so leave it in neutral with the brakes on.
Start the engine - Leave the car to run for a few minutes, then switch it off to depressurise the fuel lines.

Step 2 - Locate the fuel filter

Your filter will either be under the bonnet or under the vehicle, and likely behind an inspection cover. In some cases, a wheel may need to be removed to gain access. Follow your owner’s manual for wheel removal.

Step 3 - Remove the filter cover and old filter

Release the fastener to pull away the filter cover. At this point, clean around the filter and fuel lines to remove any dirt build-up. Place some newspaper around the floor and a drip tray or container beneath the filter to catch any spillages. Gently twist and remove the filter, allowing the fuel to drain out.

Step 4 - Fit the new filter

Clean in and around the filter head, then screw the new filter into place, or attach any fuel pipe connections as required. Replace the cover and fasteners – be careful not to damage them.

Step 5 - Clear down

Now you can clear up and lower the car if you jacked it up.

Step 6 - Finish off

Replace the fuel pump fuse or relay. Start the car and check for any leaks.

Disposing of old fuel filters

Once your filter change is complete, you should consider the best ways to dispose of your old filter. You should not dispose of old fuel filters in standard waste bins, since it’s classed as hazardous waste. Rules vary by area, so you should check with your local authority on the proper process for disposing of your waste.

Manufacturers generally recommend that your cabin filter is replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles. This may vary if you suffer from high pollen or pollution. Your cabin filter is also replaced during our annual full service.