The fuel filter should be changed every 30,000 miles in order to prevent it from clogging. If you end up with a clogged fuel filter, you will end up with the engine performance problems discussed below. Do not worry. We can replace the fuel filter when it needs it. Call us to schedule a service visit for your automobile that works into your day so we can swap out the old filter for a new one.
Difficult Starts
It makes sense that a clogged fuel filter makes it difficult to start your automobile. The reason why is that there is not enough fuel in the combustion chamber. The fuel will get stuck behind the clog in the fuel filter. If it cannot make its way through the filter at all, your engine will not start. Again, this is because there is little or no fuel in the combustion chamber for ignition.
Misfiring
Let’s assume for the moment that fuel is making its way through the clog in the fuel filter. Unfortunately, the engine is still starved for fuel. When this happens, your engine will start to misfire because one or more of the cylinders does not have enough fuel for ignition. This misfiring will cause your engine to sputter and lag. In fact, it may feel as if your engine is hiccupping.
Rough Idling/Stalling
In fact, the misfiring will also cause your engine to idle roughly. If the problem is severe, your engine may stall while you are sitting at an idle. If the problem is really severe, your engine may stall while you are driving your automobile. If we replace the fuel filter that is clogged, the fuel flow into the engine will be restored, as will your engine’s performance.
Fuel Pump Failure
Finally, a clogged fuel filter can cause the fuel pump to fail prematurely. The clog provides resistance to the fuel pump as it pushes the fuel into the engine. Consequently, the fuel pump motor must work harder in order to get the fuel out of the tank and into the engine. A sign that the fuel pump is struggling is a whining noise coming from the fuel tank.
If it has been more than 30,000 miles since you have had your fuel filter changed, call our auto service shop to schedule an appointment. We will change the fuel filter and make sure that the rest of the fuel system is operating as it should be.