Signs of a Bad Fuel Filter
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Our vehicles have a few different filters, which can a lot of the time be ignored. This article will focus on fuel filters because they tend to be overlooked more frequently and keeping a close eye on it will have many benefits. Fuel filters are important because they keep fuel running smoothly to the engine. Changing your fuel filter on time will help protect your vehicle’s engine, as well as provide more power and better gas mileage. If you wait too long to change it out, you risk damaging your engine! We will look at the signs of a bad fuel filter, and find out when they should be replaced!
Now we don’t expect you to know exactly when they need to be changed, but we do suggest changing them out based on manufacturer recommendations. First, look in your owner’s manual, so you can see how often your filter needs to be replaced. Continue reading to see the signs that point to your fuel filter needing to be replaced.
What Does A Fuel Filter Do and Why Is It Important?
Before we look at this question further, it is important to know most vehicles have two fuel filters. One is located in the fuel tank and is commonly known as a strainer. The other is usually located in the main fuel line.
A fuel filter catches impurities in the fuel and prevents them from reaching your engine. A properly working fuel filter will trap impurities such as dirt, rust, and other sediments before they reach your engine. If you have an old fuel filter that is not properly working these contaminants can reach your engine and cause potential problems.
Common Problems Associated with Bad Fuel Filter(s)
So, what are some of the common problems that occur if you wait too long to change out your fuel filter?
Your Vehicle Won’t Start
Now there are many reasons that your vehicle may not start, so this is pretty broad. However, it is a major sign that points to a clogged fuel filter. If you ignore this, you may go from having trouble starting your engine to not being able to start it all. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
Your Vehicle Stalls
If your car begins to stall in traffic, this may point to a clogged fuel filter. Even if the vehicle starts fine, the vehicle may still stall. Which can be a scary situation to be in.
Misfire or Rough Idling
If your fuel filter is clogged you will have low fuel pressure, which may lead to an engine misfire as well as rough idling and cause additional problems to your engine.
Poor Fuel Mileage
If you notice a sudden drop in fuel efficiency. Many times it is due to a clogged fuel filter and impurities entering your engine.
Trouble Accelerating
If you have trouble accelerating, it could be due to the fact that your fuel filter is clogged. Not enough fuel may be able to flow, causing problems when accelerating your vehicle.
These are just some of the signs that it may be time for a new fuel filter. You may notice other problems that are due to a faulty fuel filter.
When Is The Right Time To Change Them?
As we mentioned before it is best to first look at your manufacturer’s recommended interval for changing your fuel filters. There is probably a range of miles stated, so when will you know exactly when it should be changed? You may not know exactly when, but if you experience any of these signs, it’s most likely time. If you don’t notice any of these signs we still recommend you change your filter about every 30,000 miles.
If you are noticing any of these signs, it is a good idea to immediately have your vehicle’s fuel filter checked out. Of course, we can help with that 7 days a week!
