Car Service Land Coupons for Oil change, Tires, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Maintenance
Every time you refill gas at a pump, there’s a likelihood of contaminations getting inside the fuel tank. If the contaminations are not cleared before the fuel reaches the engine, they can cause quick wear and tear of the fuel pump and the injectors.
In some cases, they can cause severe engine damage, leading to an expensive repair in the process. Car owners will witness a remarkable drop in engine performance because the engine will struggle to draw sufficient fuel for normal functioning.
A fuel filter is a vital car component that screens out dirt, debris, rust, and other contaminants from your regular car fuel. Basically, it works like a bodyguard, preventing even the smallest impurities from entering into the system. If it breaks down due to any reason, it won’t be able to filter the fuel as it should. To prevent this from happening, most car manufacturers often suggest fuel filter replacement as a part of the annual car maintenance regime.
What is the Average Price of The Fuel Filter Replacement?
As described earlier, fuel filters require some degree of maintenance at regular intervals. This is usually done by disconnecting the existing filter from the fuel line and replacing it with a new fuel filter. To perform this job, a mechanic will usually charge you between $50 to $180. The fuel filter itself will cost you around $15 to $60.
| Auto Center | Price |
|---|---|
| Walmart | $20 – $60 |
| NAPA | $90 – $170 |
| Mr Tire | $100– $180 |
| Midas | $75 – $165 |
| Your Mechanic | $110 – $180 |
The turnaround time on the repair is quick as well because there is not too much work involved, which should also explain why the labor cost is not jaw-dropping. Basically, replacing the fuel filter is a cost-effective procedure. It won’t create a dent in your bank account.
Of course, the cost will vary a bit based on your location and the vehicle model. Luxury cars usually attract a higher labor cost in comparison to your everyday street cars. No doubt, one mechanic charges won’t be the same as other mechanics operating in the same area.
So, it’s always in your best interest to take your car to a known mechanic who will do a quality job at a reasonable price. Also, if you can get the filter replaced as a part of your annual service, it will cost you less. This is because the repair shop will usually offer a discount if there’s other work done at the same time.
When Should You Consider Fuel Filter Replacement?
- Your vehicle manual will suggest an interval for fuel filter replacement, which can be used as a standard guide for fuel filter replacement.
- If you suspect that the fuel is contaminated, then you should know that it’s time for filter replacement.
- If the fuel pump has been recently replaced or work has been performed on the fuel injectors or the gas tank, it’s better to install a new filter as well.
- If you notice fuel leaks from the fuel system, you should replace the fuel filter and a few other parts that are causing the leak.
- Some cars are equipped with a water-sensor warning light that will signal you to possibly replace the fuel filter.
Even without any of these symptoms, a car owner can perform a quick quality check by removing the fuel filter and blowing air into it. If the air passes through the filter, it’s good enough to be used again. If not, the fuel filter needs a replacement.
If you are in an emergency situation, you can clean the fuel filter and use it again until you are ready to install the new filter.
How Safe is it to Drive with a Fuel Filter Issue?
It’s not a dare-devil thing to drive with a fuel filter issue as long as the fuel filter is not leaking. Leaks, if any, must be attended at the earliest because leaks can cause more car damage. Upon neglect, you can encounter engine problems or any other operational issue.
If it’s not a leak, then you can afford to drive around a bit before addressing the issue. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can ignore the issue for too long because a blocked fuel filter can deprive the engine of fuel, which will cause the engine to stall at some point in time.
Fuel Filter Replacement Procedure Explained:
Not a lot of work is required to replace the fuel filter. So, you won’t have to auction off your trouble to a car repair shop. To replace the fuel filter, you simply need to carry out the following steps.
- First and foremost, you need to raise the vehicle and support it.
- Next, you will locate the fuel filter and inspect it.
- Then, you will relieve the fuel pressure from the system.
- You will disconnect the old filter and fit the new one.
- Once the new part is installed, you will reconnect the fuel system.
- Finally, you will inspect the vehicle for the correct operation.
Important Pointer: Some of the fuel filters in many modern-day cars are not replaceable. The good news is that these filters usually enjoy a good lifespan. Their expected operational life is more than 80,000 km in between changes.
How to Save Money on Fuel Filter Replacement Costs
As hinted earlier, replacing the fuel filter isn’t too difficult. If you do some YouTube research, you will know that others have done it on their own without throwing an arm and a leg. The fact that new fuel filters are cheap and easily available, you won’t face any issues getting the replacement parts as well.
All you need to do is to make sure that the new fuel filter will fit into your car. You will have to check the owner manual to find out the fuel filter that’s compatible with your vehicle. So, don’t forget this basic advice before spending any money on a fuel filter.