Does the fuel filter need to be replaced?
3 Answers
Fuel filters do require replacement. During fuel production, transportation, and refueling processes, impurities can mix into the fuel. These impurities may clog fuel injectors and accumulate as carbon deposits in intake passages and cylinder walls, leading to poor engine performance. The fuel filter serves to remove these contaminants from the fuel, thus requiring periodic replacement to maintain optimal filtration efficiency. Replacement intervals vary slightly among different vehicle brands. For standard external fuel filters, replacement is typically recommended every 20,000 kilometers, while built-in filters generally require replacement every 40,000 kilometers.
Just helped my dad replace the fuel filter on his old Passat. This thing really needs regular replacement. The mechanic said there are many impurities in fuel nowadays, and a clogged filter can affect fuel supply pressure. My car used to hesitate during acceleration, and when we opened it up, the filter element was completely blackened. Generally, it's recommended to replace it every 20,000-30,000 km, but it depends on actual driving conditions. For those who often drive on dirt roads or refuel at small gas stations, it's better to check it at 15,000 km. Last time, our neighbor Lao Wang's BMW burned out its high-pressure fuel pump due to a clogged filter, and the repair cost was enough to replace 20 filters. It's not difficult to replace it yourself - just disconnect three fuel lines near the fuel tank, and remember to pull the fuse to cut the power first.
The fuel filter acts like the kidneys of a car, filtering out impurities to protect the engine. My CRV's manual mandates replacement every 40,000 kilometers. Once during a business trip on the highway, the car couldn't accelerate, and the repair shop diagnosed it as a clogged filter causing insufficient fuel pressure. Now I've made it a habit to replace the filter every two maintenance sessions. At the 4S shop, the material cost is around 200 yuan plus labor, which is much cheaper than repairing fuel injectors. Diesel vehicles require even more frequent changes, especially China VI models, as their high-pressure common rail systems demand extremely high fuel cleanliness. Buying a Mann filter online and having it replaced at a small shop can save half the cost. Remember to bleed the air after replacement, otherwise, the engine may have difficulty starting.
