The fuel system stores gasoline or diesel in the tank and then draws on this through fuel lines and delivers it through A Fuel Filter to either a carburetor or fuel injector. Fuel is then supplied to the cylinder chamber where it is mixed with air, vaporized, and burned to produce energy.

A Fuel Filter is a critical part of this system as it protects your engine from harmful debris. Fuel filters serve a vital function in today’s modern, tight-tolerance engine fuel systems.  Unfiltered fuel may contain several kinds of contaminants, such as paint chips and dirt that has been knocked into the tank while filling, or rust caused by moisture in a steel tank. The fuel filter was designed to catch these small impurities in your gas before it enters your engine, so only pure gasoline is used. If these substances are not removed before the fuel enters the fuel injectors, they will cause rapid wear and failure of the fuel pump and injectors. This is due to the abrasive action of the particles on the high-precision components used in modern injection systems. Fuel filters also improve performance, as the fewer contaminants present in the fuel, the more efficiently it can be burnt.

Diesel filters also remove the moisture from the diesel to prevent poor fuel burn, reduced power and protection against corrosion of metal components. Diesel fuel filters are available in spin-on water separator and multi-port types in addition to spin-on, cartridge, metal-free and wrap.

Where is the fuel filter located?

The fuel filter is located somewhere in between your fuel tank and your engine. Typically, the fuel filter is either located inside the fuel tank (in the opening of the fuel line, which feeds gas to your car), or somewhere in the fuel line (this is usually at the bottom of your car.) If you are unsure of your fuel filter’s location, your owner’s manual will contain a precise answer.

Reasons to change your Fuel Filter on time:

1. Boosts Engine Power – The fuel filter makes sure that clean fuel enters the engine and it enables the fuel delivery system to source the ideal quantity of fuel as required. This is made possible as the fuel filter is capable of preventing clogging of fuel injectors, as a result, boosting the power of the engine.
2. Increases Engine’s Life – The fuel filter prevents dust which could otherwise get into the engine and damage the cylinders, pistons and other components that will result in the need of costly repairs. Replacing these filters prevents such issues and ensures a longer engine life.
3. Improves Engine Performance – Clean fuel filters are essential for fine engine performance. The fuel filter prevents dirt and remains from entering the important components of the fuel delivery system. This results in higher performance of the engine. Proper maintenance and replacement of the fuel filter as recommended by the manufacturer can help boost the performance of your vehicle by 2% to 4%.
4. Reduced emissions – Vehicle emissions are harmful. As a clogged fuel filter will lead to insufficient supply of fuel through the fuel injectors, it leads to improper ratio of air-fuel mixture, causing inadequate fuel burning and resulting in harmful emissions. Replacing the fuel filter will lead to an appropriate flow of fuel and air to the engine. This economizes fuel consumption and decreases emissions.
5. Protects fuel injectors and fuel pumps from contaminants – Clean fuel is essential for optimal performance of the engine of your vehicle. The fuel filter removes dirt, rust, solids and other contaminants from the fuel. When the fuel filter does not function properly, it could lead to harmful effects on the fuel pump and the injectors because of the contaminants in the fuel.

Replacing the fuel filter in your vehicle is important because it ensures engine efficiency. When replacing the filter, take professional help if needed. Make sure to replace the filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

Some possible telltale signs to your Fuel Filter needs to be replaced: 

1. No start or difficulty to start
2. Engine Performance Problems:

•  Misfires or Hesitation
• Stalling
• Decrease in Power and Acceleration

1. Shaky engine idling
2. Engine dies while on the road
3. Issues accelerating 

It is advisable to change a diesel filter on average every 30,000 km and a petrol filter every 50,000 km. We do recommend that you check your manufacturer’s manual  to confirm the specific service interval for your vehicle. 

However, if the fuel filter is clogged or defective, it will be necessary to change it as soon as possible. Get to know more about other filters in your car by clicking here.