What gives the replacement of the fuel filter in the car. Replacing the fuel filter: replacement schedule and recommendations

The petrol filter is an integral part of the vehicle's fuel system. Today we will tell you where the element is located, how often the fuel filter is replaced, and what symptoms and signs indicate its failure.

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Description

The purpose of the fuel filter (FF) is to filter out dust and dirt particles, to prevent them from entering the engine fuel system. In the absence of a cleaning element in the system, dust and other harmful components clog and disable the fuel system.

Sectional fuel filter: 1 - filter element for injection cars, 2 - its body

The filtration process consists of two or more degrees of purification (depending on the structure of the filter and its production). The first degree is called coarse because it manages to sift out large particles of dirt that have entered the gas tank along with the fuel. The second is a fine filter, which is located somewhere between the gas tank and the vehicle's engine (this “somewhere” may be in different places, depending on the car).

Filters differ in their design. They are set based on the type of fuel system. There are three types:

carburetor;
injection;
diesel.

The specificity of diesel filters is that the type of such an engine is very vulnerable, so the fuel for the systems must be as cleaned as possible. In this case, the car fuel goes through three stages of purification - in the gas tank, and then coarse and fine cleaning. The purpose is to prevent water from entering the combustion chamber. Taking these factors into account, it becomes clear why a high-quality TF for a diesel car costs an order of magnitude more than a cleaning element for a gasoline engine.

Diesel TF: 1 - diesel, 2 - pump emulsion, 3 - dirt removal, 4 - clean fuel with condensate residues, 5 - hydrophobic material, 6 - moisture settler

By design, filters can be of two types: prefabricated and non-demountable. If a non-separable gasoline cleaning component is installed in the car, then if it is unusable, the fuel filter is completely replaced. Prefabricated TFs do not require a complete change - just replace the filter element.

Remember: a correctly selected TF specifically for the car model will save fuel and increase the frequency of its replacement. If a component is not replaced in a timely manner, the consequences for the fuel system can be dire.

If you do not know where the fuel filter is located and what is the frequency of its change, read the instruction manual. We can say that in most diesel and carburetor cars, the filter is located in the engine compartment. The components for cleaning gasoline in injection cars are located under the bottom of the car (if the filter is not collapsible), or under the rear seat. In this case, the TF is located directly in the fuel pump and its replacement consists in replacing the fuel pump mesh.

Injection fuel filters are not subject to corrosion, since they are made of aluminum or plastic alloys.

Collapsible TF

How often do you need to change

If you do not know when to change the filter and how much a car will drive on it, then only the instruction manual or the recommendations of an authorized dealer will help. In any case, everything depends solely on the transport and its operating conditions.

Given the dustiness of domestic roads and the far from the best quality of gasoline, at least 10 thousand km must be subtracted from the interval indicated in the manual. That is, if the frequency of replacing a clogged filter in the instructions for the car is every 40 thousand kilometers, then it needs to be changed every 30 thousand kilometers.

Masters at service stations advise changing the fuel filter every 20-25 thousand kilometers, no matter how much the manufacturer recommends.

If the frequency of changing the cleaning element was not observed or it is heavily clogged, the engine may not start at all. Certain breakdown symptoms, manifested through a high mileage of a car on a clogged TF, may indicate a component failure.

The following are the symptoms and signs that gasoline is not passing through the fuel filter:

uneven operation of the engine ("troit" machine);
from time to time the car loses power while driving;
when driving at low speeds when the pedal is pressed, the car stalls, no matter how much it is "drowned" in the floor;
incorrect gear shifting (in the case of an automatic transmission: incorrectly transmits engine commands to gear shifting and carries them out at the wrong time);
increased fuel consumption.

Symptoms indicate a filter failure process. If they do not appear, you will find out about the malfunction of the cleaning component when the car does not start in the morning.

Replacement process

Without the experience or knowledge of replacing a part, you will harm the auto system. Installing a fuel filter is a relatively simple process, following the steps in the instructions, a novice car enthusiast will also cope with it.

What to cook?

If the component is located under the bottom of the car, you will need to drive into the pit. Before removing it, prepare:

a new cleaning element (buy those filters that are made by the car manufacturer, or that it advises to install);
set of wrenches;
slotted and Phillips screwdriver;
rags.

Let's start replacing

The instructions describe the process of changing a non-separable fuel filter for any car. Depending on the design features of the transport, there may be some differences in the process. If an element complete with a fuel pump is installed in the car, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the recommendations from the manufacturer. Companies advise changing the filter along with the fuel pump.

Decide on the location of the TF. In diesel and carburetor cars, the part is located in the engine compartment, either under the bottom or in a tank with a gasoline pump (in gasoline cars).
Regardless of the location, remove the fuel pump fuse and wait until the car stalls. This is done to relieve pressure in the system.
Now, to prevent fire during the replacement process, remove the negative terminal of the battery.
Install the new component in the same position in which the old one was installed (the arrow on the filter, showing the direction of gasoline, will help).
Connect the gas line after checking the integrity of the pipe. If the tube is damaged, replace it.
Now it remains to replace the fuel pump fuse and connect the battery terminals.
Try to start the car. This may not work the first time because the pressure in the system has been released. Turn on the ignition for 30-60 seconds, then try to start.

Attention! Pay attention to safety! Do not smoke indoors when replacing the fuel filter. It is also advisable to ventilate the garage.

Video from Sergey Palamarchuk "How to pump gasoline into the fuel filter and air the system"

Any fuel initially contains a small proportion of mechanical impurities, dust and dirt particles, as well as some water. To protect the engine from foreign particles entering the fuel mixture formation mechanism (carburetor, injector), the fuel supply system is equipped with a fuel filter.

Purpose and design of the fuel filter

Fuel cleaning usually takes place in several stages:

First of all, large particles of impurities are retained (rough cleaning). This function is performed by a protective mesh installed in the fuel pump tank.
The final purification of gasoline from contaminating components is carried out by a fine filter installed in the fuel line between the tank and the power unit of the car.

The design of fuel filters can vary. Basically, it is a housing with an inlet and outlet connection, inside which there is a filter element (for example, 10 micron filter paper).

Fuel filter clogging symptoms

When a petrol filter fails, there are two possible consequences:

If a the filter element is clogged with a lot of debris, then its throughput is seriously reduced. As a result, less gasoline enters the combustion chambers than is required for the engine to operate normally, which causes the following problems:

fuel consumption increases;
there are problems with starting the motor;
the traction characteristics of the engine are reduced (the car accelerates poorly);
when you press the accelerator pedal vigorously, the engine stalls;
the motor runs unstably at idle.

If a the filter element loses its properties, then raw fuel is supplied to the engine. This leads to clogging of the injectors, the ingress of dirt into the combustion chambers and into the valve group. This situation can result in damage to the power package.

Regular replacement periods

The standard frequency of replacing the fuel filter is set by the manufacturer of a particular car, taking into account the features of its design. So, for front-wheel drive VAZs, it is recommended to change the filter after 30 thousand kilometers of the distance traveled. The Renault Nissan concern for its line of diesel power units has set the fuel filter change interval at 10 thousand kilometers. And gasoline models Ford Focus and Nissan Almera, in general, are equipped with maintenance-free filtersthat should function normally throughout the entire life of the machine.

Information on how often to change the fuel filter is indicated in the owner's manual; you can also contact the authorized dealers of the corresponding car brand for such a recommendation.

Taking into account the harsh domestic road conditions and the extremely poor quality of fuel at the filling station, for reliability, it is possible to reduce the scheduled time set by the plant by about 30%. This will minimize possible troubles associated with a sudden breakdown of the fuel system components.

Reminder! Select for replacement parts that are compatible with the vehicle design and are officially approved by the automaker. Cheap counterparts often do a poor job of filtering gasoline and fail much earlier than the standard terms.

The process of replacing the Hyundai Solaris fuel filter is presented in the following video:

Other reasons for replacing the fuel filter

There are a number of situations when it is necessary to change the gasoline filter, regardless of the elapsed service life:

If foreign substances (including additives that have a negative effect on the functioning of the engine) enter the fuel tank, a new filter element must be installed after flushing the fuel lines.

If on the road you had to refuel with fuel of dubious quality, and after that there were problems with the normal functioning of the engine, in addition to all repair actions, you will need to replace the filter element.

Also, it will not be superfluous to replace the fuel purification device before traveling long distances (for example, to the sea) instead of an element that has already exhausted part of its resource, especially if there is no information about reliable gas stations on the chosen route.

Replacing the filter for diesel engines

The design features of diesel engines make them very sensitive to fuel quality, therefore, the system of filter elements ensures that diesel fuel is purified from impurities larger than 4 micrometers.

For comparison! For normal operation of a carburetor engine, a gasoline purification degree of 15-20 micrometers is required, and particles up to 10 micrometers are filtered in injection systems.

Based on the tough operating parameters, the high cost of high-quality devices designed for diesel fuel purification becomes clear.

A diesel fuel filter may contain a primary (coarse) filter, a fine filter and water separator, which gets into the fuel together with the diesel fuel when refueling, and also condenses in the tank from the temperature drop during driving.

Most often, the extraordinary need to replace the fuel filter arises during winter operation of diesel engines for the following reasons:

in the cold, the water accumulated in the separator freezes, and the throughput of the system decreases;
under the influence of negative temperatures, petroleum waxes crystallize in diesel fuel, which clog the pores of the filter element.

Both options cause problems with starting the engine, and also lead to the functioning of the engine in critical modes.

In the experience of previous generations of motorists, drivers whose work is associated with the daily operation of diesel vehicles carry a spare fuel filter for quick replacement or install fuel system heaters.

The purpose of the fuel filtering device in the car is to provide high-quality cleaning of the used fuel. When contaminants enter fuel equipment, they build up and can cause engine shutdown or vehicle interruptions. It is necessary to monitor the frequency of replacement of the fuel filter so that it can efficiently cope with the function of separating and retaining impurities.

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Fuel system types

Auto fuel system diagram

To understand when it is necessary to change the filter device on a gasoline or diesel engine, you need to disassemble the types of fuel systems:

Carburetor. These motors run on gasoline. Carburetor systems are considered obsolete and are among the most complex in design. The purpose of the carburetor is to prepare the air-fuel mixture for the power unit. Carburetor systems have a variety of subsystems that provide this function in different operating modes of the internal combustion engine. Despite all the disadvantages, such engines also have advantages. For example, low cost of repair due to inexpensive elements of fuel equipment. Carburetor motors do not need high pressure pumps. Disadvantages are usually associated with the maintenance of the internal combustion engine. Carburetor engines need constant care. In the cold season, the motor must be properly adjusted so that it can start without problems at low negative temperatures.
Monoinjection. They are considered more modern systems characterized by the presence of mono injection. Instead of a carburetor, a spray device equipped with a single nozzle is used in the base. Fuel atomization occurs when the power unit sucks in air streams. Mono-injector power systems are installed on gasoline engines. For optimal unit operation, a high pressure fuel pump and return line are required. The system is also equipped with an engine control unit used for the correct dosage of gasoline. The control module receives data from sensors of mass air flow, fuel pressure and others, as a result of which it adjusts the internal combustion engine for correct operation. Thanks to the use of mono injection, the design itself is more expensive compared to carburetor systems, but the unit is easier to start at cold temperatures and generally functions more stable. This helps to reduce financial maintenance costs.
Injection power supply systems with distributed injection. More advanced engine option. Multi-point injection or distribution injection can be used. In such versions, the main shortcomings characteristic of older injection systems were corrected. Each cylinder of the power unit is equipped with injectors. In general, injectors have a similar principle of operation to the systems described above, but such motors are considered more environmentally friendly. Thanks to the modernization, the designers managed to achieve stable operation of the unit and reduce fuel consumption, and the cost of the systems was also increased.
Injection internal combustion engines with direct injection. This type is considered one of the most perfect. In such engines, the process of spraying the fuel-air mixture is carried out using nozzles mounted on each cylinder of the engine. As a result, fuel consumption has been reduced by 20% compared to multi-point injection systems. The designers were able to increase the technical parameters of the unit, including its capacity. The main disadvantage of such a system is considered to be its high cost, high demands on operation and quality of the fuel to be poured, as well as dependence on the use of different pumping devices. It's not just about the high pressure fuel pump.
Diesel systems with plunger multi-section pump. In it, fuel is injected at the moment when the pump section delivers a portion of fuel. The pump itself is driven by the action of the crank shaft. Such systems are not so demanding on the quality of the diesel fuel used, its cost is generally lower, but it is not so environmentally friendly. These systems are not equipped with a turbocharger, which can be attributed to disadvantages.
Diesel systems with unit injectors. Of the advantages of improved motors, practicality and more reliable engine operation can be distinguished. If one of the cylinders breaks down, other devices continue to work as usual. Each injector is equipped with its own pump, which makes it possible not to use too long fuel drives of increased pressure. But the cost of nozzles is quite high, and these elements belong to the category of consumables, so they are also changed at regular intervals when they work out their service life. Such systems are demanding on the quality of the fuel used.
Common Rail. Such power systems are considered the most advanced, their use implies the use of a common ramp. The principle of operation is similar to the vehicle with direct injection gasoline. Common Rail power systems imply the presence of an electric pumping device of increased pressure, with the help of which a pressure above 200 atmospheres is created in the lines. Electric impulses from the engine control unit open the injectors. The main advantages of the system are the high efficiency of the unit, reduced fuel consumption and the minimum amount of harmful substances in the exhaust gases, which makes the motors environmentally friendly. The disadvantages include the exactingness of engines to the quality of diesel fuel.

The ural biker channel showed how the fuel filtering device is changed in Nissan Qashqai.

Fuel filter replacement interval in the vehicle

Now we will analyze how often and at what mileage it is necessary to replace the filter device. The exact period of operation and the mileage at which the element is changed is indicated in the official regulations. To understand how long it takes to change the filter, be sure to read the service book. Also, the replacement interval of the device depends on the conditions of use, in particular, on the quality of the fuel to be poured and the dustiness of our roads.

Considering these factors, at least 10-15 thousand kilometers must be subtracted from the filter service life specified by the manufacturer. If the service manual indicates that the device will work 40 thousand km, then it is recommended to replace it after 25-30 thousand. Experts advise replacing the fuel filter every 20-25 thousand km, regardless of when the automaker recommends doing it. Some Ford and Nissan models are equipped with maintenance-free filters, the service life of which is equal to the service life of the car. The manufacturer Nissan in car brands equipped with serviceable filters has set a replacement interval of 10 thousand kilometers.

Causes of malfunctions

When is it necessary to change the filter element:

If it gets clogged and has worked out its service life.
If the power system has been repaired and some of its components have been removed during the process.
If dirt and other third-party substances have got into the gas tank, for example, additives that negatively affect the operation of the power unit. When the fuel lines are flushed, a new filter must be installed.
As a preventive measure before long journeys.
If you have been refueling with low-quality fuel for a long time, which led to problems in the engine operation.

Find out what the filtering device looks like after 10 thousand km of run from the TEXaS TV video.

Signs of a clogged filter

Briefly about the symptoms that indicate the inoperability of the filter device:

The power unit of the car began to work unevenly. The internal combustion engine "troit", its revolutions then fall, then increase.
From time to time, especially when driving uphill, the car engine loses power, its traction decreases. To replenish power, the driver has to press harder on the gas.
If the car is going uphill at reduced speed, the engine may stall. In this case, pressing the gas pedal will not give results.
If the car is equipped with an automatic transmission, then gear shifting problems may arise. This is due to the fact that the internal combustion engine incorrectly transmits commands from the engine and does not shift gears on time.
Fuel consumption increases.

Replacing the fuel filter

Required tools

Before starting the process, prepare the following:

the filter itself;
wrenches, their sizes depend on the design features of the car;
flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
rags.

The Auto Repair Channel provided a video in which it showed the process of replacing the filtering device using the example of a Chevrolet Lacetti car.

Step-by-step instruction

The replacement process in a car running on gasoline or diesel will differ depending on where the filter is installed. The device can be located under the bottom of the car or in the engine compartment. If the filter is maintenance-free, it is installed complete with a gas pump. Consider the replacement process for each case.

Without fuel pump

If the TF is installed not in the fuel pump, but autonomously, the replacement procedure is carried out as follows:

Find the device located under the vehicle or in the engine compartment.
Open the fuse box and remove the part responsible for the engine. Start the engine and wait until it stalls. This means that the fuel system has been depressurized.
Determine the type of fixation of the fuel device to the line. For fastening, manufacturers use bolts, self-tapping screws, a hose with clamps or special latches. Dismantle the filter depending on the type of fixation. To do this, you can disconnect the latches, loosen the clamps on the nozzles, unscrew the bolts or screws, having previously wrapped the device in a rag. When detaching the filter, some of the fuel will come out of it, be careful. After dismantling the part, assess the condition of the gaskets and seals, if any. Worn sealing components must be replaced.
Install the new filter, taking into account the direction of the fuel along the line. It is important here not to make a mistake so as not to disrupt the operation of the engine. An arrow on the filter housing indicates the direction of fuel flow.
Reconnect the fuel line and check its condition. If damaged, the hoses must be replaced.
Replace the safety element of the pumping device. Start the engine. It can be problematic to do this the first time because of the pressure release, but after a few start-up attempts everything will be fine. Carry out a test drive and check the condition of the filter. Correct the problem if there is a leak.

1. Unscrew the bolts securing the device to the line 2. Install the new filter and fix it securely

Assembled with a gasoline pump

If the filter is maintenance-free but clogged anyway, car manufacturers recommend replacing the fuel pump assembly.

But to save money, you can replace the filter directly, the role of which in pumping devices is played by a special mesh:

The fuel pump is mounted in the fuel tank. You can access it by removing the rear seat and opening a special bolt-on hatch. In some cars, for example, the Ford Focus, the sunroof may not be present. Then the car owner will have to dismantle the fuel tank.
Open the fuse box and dismantle the pump control device. Start the engine and wait for it to stall.
Opening the hatch, you will see the fuel pump cover. You need to disconnect the connectors from the wire connected to it, and then dismantle all the pipes.
Unscrew the cap and remove the fuel pump.
The filter mesh is located inside the device. The dismantling procedure depends on the design features of the machine, it usually does not cause difficulties. To disassemble the pump, unscrew all the bolts and dismantle its elements to gain access to the mesh.
After removing the mesh, do not try to clean it. Many car enthusiasts think that cleaning under the pressure of water will allow the mesh to be used a second time. After flushing, it can really work for a while, but usually it does not last long. Replace the mesh and reassemble the pumping device. Reinstall it, reconnect all disconnected pipes and connectors. Replace the fuse and start the engine.

Replacing the fuel filter is part of regular maintenance. Proper maintenance of the fuel system by replacing the fuel filter will extend the life of the fuel pump. The filter traps impurities in the fuel and becomes clogged over time, so the efficiency is reduced. A clogged filter reduces the pressure and volume of the entire fuel system. If the vehicle begins to lose power, a dirty fuel filter may be the cause. The filter should be changed according to the manufacturer's recommended interval.

Note: This manual only applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. Typically, diesel fuel filters are much larger and the fuel system itself is more complex. The pressure in the diesel fuel system is much higher: modern battery fuel systems operate at pressures of over 1000 bar. Accidental release of such high pressure could result in injury.

Steps

Part 1

How to relieve pressure in the fuel system

Locate the fuse box. To relieve pressure in the fuel system, temporarily turn on the engine with the fuel pump inoperative. Locate the fuse box and then turn off the fuel pump fuse so that it does not turn on with the engine. The fuse box is almost always located in the passenger compartment or under the hood. Use your car owner's guide to find out the exact location of the unit on your vehicle.

If there is no reference book, try to find the required information on the manufacturer's website.
Often the fuel pump fuse is located in the block that is located in the passenger compartment.

Disconnect the fuel pump fuse. Open the desired fuse box and use the diagram on the box cover or owner's manual to locate the fuel pump fuse. Use needle nose pliers or plastic tongs to remove the fuse.
- Without a fuse, the fuel pump will not turn on when the engine is started.
- There is still fuel and pressure in the fuel pipes that run towards the front of the vehicle.
- You can also find a fuse diagram on the manufacturer's website.
Set the gear to neutral. Despite the lack of fuel supply from the tank to the engine, a small supply remains in the pipes, which is enough to get the car off the ground. The automatic transmission should be in the parking position and the manual transmission in neutral and the handbrake should be applied.
- If any gear is engaged, the car will move.
- For standard transmission, be sure to engage the handbrake. For automatic gearboxes, this step is optional but recommended.
Start the engine. Insert the key into the ignition and turn to start the engine normally. The engine will start easily and start using fuel that is still in the part of the fuel system after the fuel pump.
- If the engine stalls after a few revolutions, the cause may be insufficient pressure in the system to deliver fuel to the engine.
- If the engine has stopped, there is no need to relieve pressure again.
Leave the engine running for about a minute. Depending on the type of fuel system in your vehicle and the average fuel consumption, the total operating time with the fuel pump off can be very different. No need to wait for the engine to turn off. Turn it on for one to two minutes and then turn it off.
- The pressure will be relieved quickly when the fuel pump is off.
- If you wait until the engine stalls, then it will be difficult to start it again.
Reinstall the fuel pump fuse. After relieving pressure in the fuel system, shut off the engine and install the fuel pump fuse. Cover the fuse box with the cover and reinstall all the removed trim parts.
- Be sure to turn off the engine before installing the fuse.
- Do not start the engine after installing the fuel pump fuse.
Part 2
How to remove an old fuel filter
1. Disconnect the battery. The engine will not need to be turned on until work is complete, so disconnect the negative battery terminal. Remove the cable from the negative terminal to prevent the engine from starting when replacing the filter. Loosen the nut that holds the cable to the negative terminal by hand or using a wrench (you do not need to remove the nut completely).
  - Disconnect the battery to prevent the engine from starting when replacing the filter.
  - Move the negative cable away from the battery so that it cannot accidentally touch the terminal.
2. Find a fuel filter. There are two common options for the location of the filter in a vehicle, so refer to your service manual. It is most often found on the fuel line under the vehicle, just behind the fuel pump. In some cases, the filter can be located in the engine compartment on the line leading to the fuel rail.
  - Sometimes the fuel filter may be in a different location, so refer to the guide.
  - In some vehicles, the fuel filter is accessed from the cab.
3. Raise the vehicle with a jack. If the fuel filter is under the vehicle, jack the vehicle up. Place the jack in a special place for a stop and turn on the pump or start rotating the lever to raise the car (depending on the type of jack).
  - After lifting to a sufficient height, install supports to work safely under the vehicle.
  - Never rely on the jack alone and install supports that can support the weight of the vehicle.
4. Place a pan or bucket under the fuel filter. Despite the pressure release, a small amount of fuel may still remain in the system and may spill when the fuel pump is turned off. Use a bucket or pallet to prevent fuel from dripping or spilling onto the garage floor.
  - Do not mix fuel with oil or coolant that will be reused. The gasoline should be collected in a separate container and then poured into a canister.
  - Gasoline can corrode some types of plastics, so use only suitable containers to prevent fuel leaks.
5. Remove the clips that hold the fuel filter. Typically, the filter is secured with two plastic clips. Locate the clips on both sides of the cylindrical fuel filter and pry them out with a flathead screwdriver to remove them from the slots. It is recommended to buy spare clips along with the new filter as they may break during removal.
  - The clamps holding the fuel filter are made of thin plastic, so they often break. If you managed to remove them intact, then you do not need to buy new clips.
  - New clamps for the fuel filter can be purchased at any parts store.
6. Disconnect the fuel hoses from the filter. Remove the clamps and slide the fuel hoses to remove them from the connections on both ends of the filter. Tilt the ends of the hoses into a bucket or sump to drain off any remaining gasoline.
  - Remember to wear glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from splashes.
  - Take care not to spill gasoline on the garage floor.
7. Remove the fuel filter from the bracket. The filter is probably secured with a metal bracket around the outer casing. Disconnect both fuel hoses and slide the filter towards the front of the body to remove it from the bracket. The filter is bell-shaped and can only be pulled out to one side.

From the article you will find out: where the fuel filter is located, its functional features and the frequency of replacement. Consider the options for cleaning elements: diesel, carburetor and injection systems; their location and replacement procedure.

Fuel filter functions

When operating a car on poor fuel, flows with the inclusion of foreign particles can pass through the fuel line:

rust,
sand and road dust,
chemical additives and resins.

Once in the combustion chamber, they lead to coking of the piston group and the head of the engine block. Regular maintenance and replacement of the fuel filter will save the engine from premature wear. The function of the cleaning element is to filter out the fuel: to trap solid particles, to precipitate paraffin impurities and water condensate.

The service life of the cell depends on the quality of the fuel being poured. Plugged fuel filter cells create a plug for fuel to pass through. As a result: the engine does not receive a sufficient portion of fuel into the combustion chamber and the normal operation is lost.

Fuel filter device

The shape of the device is made in the form of a bulb. A cellular porous material is located in the core, through which the fuel flow passes and is cleaned. The body has two channels: an inlet (for entering fuel from the gas tank) and an outlet, from where the purified fuel is supplied to the engine.

Elements are made of two types: prefabricated, with the ability to change the contaminated mesh and clean the capsule from impurities, and solid (non-separable) - to be replaced.

You should not save on changing the fuel filter. Timely replacement with a high-quality model will reduce fuel consumption and increase the resource of the internal combustion engine.

The design of the fuel system (for modern car models) can consist of several cleaning elements or one combined. The fuel stream undergoes two stages of purification: coarse collection of solid debris and precipitation of chemical additives.

When buying and replacing a fuel filter, the choice is made based on several characteristics of the element. The model is selected according to the following parameters:

the level of capturing large particles (depends on the structure and size of the mesh cells);
pressure throughput (for refined fuel);
the surface of the mesh area inside the element.

The design of fuel filters is different for different engines and depends on the type of fuel system.

Filters for carburetor systems have a catching degree of 12 - 20 microns. Smaller particles will pass through the fuel filter without affecting the flow rate or blockage of the fuel line.

IN injection systems the installed elements retain solid particles, 5 - 10 microns in size. More inflated rates for cleaning are designed specifically for injectors in order to protect fuel lines from clogging.

Fuel filters for injection types of cars are not subject to corrosive wear, since the shape of the structure is made of polymer materials or aluminum.

Fuel filters for diesel vehicles are made with a minimum size of throughput cells that capture dust with a diameter of up to 5 microns. The design feature of elements for a diesel engine is the ability to remove moisture.

Before buying a fuel filter, read the information on the operation of the car model. Write down the characteristics of the element - to be able to choose an interchangeable filter model.

Fuel filter location

You can find out where the fuel filter is located in the technical manual for a specific car model.

For foreign brands of cars with an injection system, the location of the elements at the entrance to the gas pump is typical, before the start of the section of the fuel line (in the gas tank).
Carburetor systems are considered obsolete. For "oldies" it is provided for placement under the hood.
For diesel vehicles, the design is performed under the hood, next to the high-pressure fuel pump.

The constructive place of installation in the fuel filter for the injection models of "AvtoVAZ" is next to the gas tank. The element "cuts" into the pipeline between the fuel pump and the power system.

The filtration system of the car's engine needs to be checked periodically. The probability of a car running 50 thousand kilometers without consequences (on one cleaning element) is impossible. This is due to the poor quality of fuel at the filling station.

In fact, the replacement should be carried out at the first signs of wear on the fuel filter, which are:

unstable motor operation,
reduced tractive effort,
increased fuel consumption.

Fuel filter plugging appears gradually. Do not postpone the replacement of the element - this is fraught with breakdown at the wrong time.

Interruptions in the motor are manifested in "triple action". The vehicle is difficult to start and sometimes the engine may stall when driving uphill.

When to change the fuel filter?

The regularity of replacement is determined offhand: they are guided visually and by the mileage traveled on a new element. Experienced drivers carry out a self-examination for inclusions and deposits on the catching mesh.

The working cleaning resource of the filter depends on the condition of the fuel system lines. With long-term operation of the car, clogging of the fuel system is characteristic:

from oxidation that appears on the pipes due to chemical reactions;
corrosive particles in the form of rust;
low quality fuel (with additives to increase the octane number);
defect of the TF itself or poor quality of the assembly.

Rubber pipes may burst or internal cracks during operation. Small particles of worn-out rubber break off and move along the vehicle. Corrosive deposits can be removed from copper assemblies, and rust from mechanical adapters.

How often should you change the fuel filter?

There is no specific answer to the question: "How much time to change the fuel filter". The operating manuals (for various car brands) indicate data from 30 to 60 thousand kilometers. Long filter life is valid for European countries with clean fuel at the filling station. Domestic realities show twice underestimated figures.

Filter replacement steps

The procedure for replacing the fuel filter is different for carburetor, diesel and injection vehicles. For different types of cars, the location of the fuel filter in the design is significantly different.

How to replace a fuel filter for different types of cars?

Carburetor

The structural arrangement of the element is carried out under the hood. The fuel filter is a transparent pass-through flask made of polymer material. The device is installed in the pipeline system. The entry and exit are fixed using simple clamps.

Before installation, it is important not to mix up the input and output channel connections to the system. The pointer on the body of the element should be directed towards the fuel pump.

The procedure is performed quite quickly: after dismantling and clamping the nozzles from leaking, the new element is fixed with a screwdriver on the screw clamps of the clamps.

Do not change the position of the filter in relation to the engine. Close contact with an overheated engine surface can melt the surface of the plastic bulb and overheat the fuel to a gaseous state.

Injector: order and nuances of replacement

Fuel is supplied to the combustion chamber under significant pressure. Because of this feature, the cleaning element must withstand a large continuous load on the walls of the structure. The fuel filter for the injection type is made of metal, and the element is fastened to a tight threaded joint. The location depends on the make of the car - they are installed under the car or in the plane of the engine compartment.