How Much Does a Fuel Filter Replacement Cost?
The fuel filter, as with any filter, will remove any unwanted debris. In the case of a car, this filter is responsible for remove any of this debris from entering the fuel line, preventing any unwanted damage.
In general, a fuel filter will need to be replaced at least once per year, but a higher mileage car may need it replaced more often than average. Mechanics recommend replacing it every 40,000 to 80,000 miles.
Fuel filter replacement cost
The average cost of a fuel filter replacement is pretty standard across the board from what we researched. For most cars, a local mechanic or dealer will charge anywhere from $50 to $150, including parts and labor, but if you were to do it your on your own, you could purchase the appropriate parts for as little as $15 to $55, depending on the vehicle you drive. Often done with annual service for most vehicles, the cost of the fuel filter will be tied into the entire package cost. In general, most technicians will recommend changing your fuel filter annually to maintain the health of your engine.
In some of the newer cars, do keep in mind that the fuel filter is part of the fuel pump module and the filter itself cannot be replaced on its own.
| Model | Price Quoted |
|---|---|
| BMW 528i | $300 |
| Chevrolet Cavalier | $110 |
| Chevrolet Cruze | $135 |
| Chevrolet Silverado | $125 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | $105 |
| Ford Explorer | $85 |
| Ford F150 | $85 |
| Ford Focus | $95 |
| Ford Fusion | $65 |
| Ford Taurus | $100 |
| Honda Accord | $130 |
| Honda Civic | $85 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $145 |
| Nissan Altima | $100 |
| Toyota Camry | $125 |
| Toyota Corolla | $125 |
| Volkswagen Golf | $100 |
At Pep Boys, for instance, they claim their fuel filter replacement services start at $79.99, according to their official price sheet.
At Jiffy Lube, when we reached out to our local location, they stated it would cost about $65 to $100+ to replace the fuel filter, depending on the car you drive.
As for just the parts, as mentioned, you’re looking at $10 to $40. At Advance Auto Parts, most of the premium filters were in the , while AutoZone had filters .
What is a fuel filter?
The role of a fuel filter, as mentioned, is designed to help trap any massive bits of debris/fuel before it can even reach the fuel lines and engine. If any of these larger particles were able to make its way into the engine, it could create severe damage to the engine as it can plug the fuel injectors, which would stop the cylinder from getting the conventional amount of fuel, ultimately leading to an injector replacement.
As there are many varieties of fuel delivery arrangements on vehicles today, the fuel filters will vary from one car to the next. A carburetor fueled engine, for instance, will use a vacuum to help suck the fuel into the engine while using low pressure. As the fuel passes through the rubber hoses, this type of fuel filter, usually made from plastic or metal, will have both an inlet and outlet tube, allowing the fuel to pass through while being filtered. As for an electronic fuel injection, the fuel is squirted into every cylinder via the injectors with high pressure. Because of this, the filters will be created from metal to stop it from crumbling down over time.
The fuel filter replacement process
Before the fuel filter is even removed, the pressure will first be relieved from the fuel line by disabling the fuel pump. To disable the fuel pump, this will be done by removing both the fuel pump hose and the fuse box.
Once the pressure has been cut in the fuel lines, the lines will be disconnected from the engine to access the fuel filter.
The filter, now exposed, will be compared to a new one to see how dirty it is. Like any filter, the dirtier it is, the less efficient it will be. At this time, the mechanic will determine if the filter needs to be replaced. As mentioned, if it has been longer than 12-24 months, then a mechanic will replace it for safety reasons.
With the new filter, the old one will be taken out and the new one will be inserted in its place, ensuring the arrows are pointing the right direction of the proper flow.
Once fitted, the fuel lines will be reattached and the fuel pump fuse and pump will be re-installed.
The car will now be started and the mechanic will investigate the new filter for any leaks.
How to save on a fuel filter repair
Replacing a fuel filter, believe it or not, actually isn’t that hard at all. In fact, even if you do not have much in terms of car repair experience, you can do the job with ease as long as you follow a how-to video, which we will post below. The parts, as mentioned, should cost you less than $30 and will take less than an hour to replace. For instance, on Amazon, we found countless universal parts for less than $25. Simply refer to your owners manual or search online to make sure you’re buying the right filter. If you really want to save, consider purchasing an aftermarket part rather than an OEM part to save a few more dollars.
How to tell if fuel filter is bad
Hard start – A dirty fuel filter could lead to a hard start as the fuel flow is constricted. This isn’t always the case, though, as spark plugs and your carburetor could cause a hard start as well.
Hesitating engine – When you press down on the gas, if you notice the engine is hesitating, then it could be a sign the fuel filter is clogged. When clogged, the filter will restrict the flow of gas, meaning the abnormal combustion will reduce the car’s power and responsiveness.
Stalling out – As your engine will need a constant supply of fuel, it will not run efficiently if it becomes dirty or even clogged. Even with the slightest clog, the car can stall as, again the flow of gas will be restricted.
Won’t start – In order for the car to start, it will need both a mixture of gasoline and air to fire up. If there’s no gas coming through, then the failure to start could mean your fuel filter is clogged. However, this isn’t always the case as the problem may rely upon the battery or ignition.
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