Fuel Filter: Service and Repair

Removal Procedure
The fuel filter is located under the rear of the car, behind the fuel tank. There is no service interval for fuel filter replacement. Replacement is required only if the fuel filter becomes restricted.

1. Remove the negative battery cable.
2. Relieve fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Release Procedure.
3. Raise the vehicle and suitably support.

Caution: To Reduce the Risk of Fire and Personal Injury:
^ Always cover nylon vapor pipes with a wet towel before using a torch near them. Also, never expose the vehicle to temperatures higher than 115°C (239°F) for more than one hour; or more than 90°C (194 °F) for any extended period.
^ Take care not to nick or scratch the nylon vapor pipes. If damaged, replace the nylon vapor pipes.

4. Using back-up wrench, remove the fuel filter fitting.
5. Grasp the fuel fitter and nylon fuel connection line fitting. Twist quick-connect fitting 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt within fitting. Using compressed air, blow out dirt from quick-connect fittings at end of fuel filter.
6. Remove the quick connect fitting by pushing inward toward filter and grasping plastic tab around the connector and pull apart
7. Remove the fuel filter.


Installation Procedure

Caution: in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury before connecting fuel pipe fittings, always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends.

This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak. During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.

1. Remove the protective caps from new filter.
2. Install the filter in same position as the old filter.

^ Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male tube end of the filter and of the fuel sender assembly.
^ Push the connectors together to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.
^ Once installed, pull on both ends of each connection to make sure they are secure.

Tighten
^ Use back up wrench to prevent filter, O-ring or fuel pipe damage.
^ Tighten the fitting to 27 Nm (20 lb ft).

3. Install the fuel filter fitting using new O-ring.
4. Lower the vehicle.
5. Install the negative battery cable.
6. Inspect for fuel leaks through the following steps:
6.1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for 2 seconds.
6.2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position for 10 seconds.
6.3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
6.4. Check for fuel leaks.