Fuel Filters

When should I change my fuel filter?

A fuel filter’s main function in the engine systems is it filters fuel from dirt or debris that can enter the fuel surge tank or the fuel rails. Contaminants can even include water, rust and paint chips can change the flow rate and pattern of the fuel injectors, thus causing disruptions in the engine’s operation. While modern engines’ fuel injectors have very tight tolerances which are easily clogged, it becomes imperative to constantly change the fuel filter of your vehicle on a regular basis because repairs can be quite costly.

Older engines that use carburetors are less problematic with the fuel they take in because of the wider jet opening. However, replacing the fuel filter as needed is still ideal as a clogged filter can still present problems to other car parts including power loss.

What are the signs of a fuel filter gone bad?

An engine and all its parts work together to keep all your vehicles in top operating condition be it petrol operated or diesel. So anything that disrupts the flow of fuel will likely find internal problems.

Engine won’t start

Sometimes these components can become so clogged with debris that the flow of fuel to the engine can be completely barricaded. And without fuel, the engine fails to start, leading to some very costly complications. This is one of the main reasons to have a good fuel cap to help the engine flow from getting too much debris. This will leave out any contaminant that might leak in the fuel tank.

Engine starts to stall

This normally happens when the fuel flow to the engine is partially blocked in the filter. The engine will still run but will pose problems when the vehicle comes to a halt or when you try to accelerate from that halt.

Vehicle experiences rough idling

Fuel filters that have some degree of blockage affects the fuel to air ratio in the vehicle’s engine. This also means that the fuel going into the engine is not combusting properly.

Engine causes trouble at low speeds

While at higher speeds, the fuel pump pushes the fuel at a higher pressure so even if the filter is clogged, fuel is able to still slip through and flow into the engine. However, at lower speeds, lower pressure is exerted by the fuel pump so fuel is no longer able to go through a clogged filter.

If your car or motorcycle is suffering from any of the above be sure to inform your mechanic during your next service. This will make sure you drive your car on top performance management levels. You might also consider checking out a product or two on our website at Pro Speed Parts for very good prices and we also offer delivery services. So you won’t even have to go out and drive to a store.