Safety Glasses
Gloves
Fuel Filter
Flathead Screwdriver
Drain Pan
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BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Changing your fuel filter when you’re down to less than a quarter tank of fuel will make removing pressure from the fuel line easier. Also, make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area so combustible fumes don’t accumulate. |
Step 1: Remove fuel pump fuse or relay
First, you need to remove pressure from the fuel line. Open your hood. Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay. For this model, the relay is under the hood. You can find your fuse by looking in the owner’s manual and/or under the lid of the fuse box to find its location.
Step 2: Start your engine
Start your engine and allow it to idle until it stalls. This may trigger your Check Engine Light. Once it stalls, crank the engine again for about 5 seconds to release fuel pressure. This should relieve most of the pressure, but there could still be a little fuel that squirts or leaks when you detach the filter. Turn the ignition back to the OFF position.
Step 3: Disconnect the battery ground cable
Now, disconnect the battery ground cable, marked with a minus sign. Set it to the side and make sure it isn’t touching anything metal.
Raise and support your vehicle. Learn to safely raise your vehicle here.
Raise and support your vehicle. Learn to safely raise your vehicle here.
Step 4: Have drain pan ready
Prepare for the next step by placing a drain pan of some kind in place to catch any fuel that’s left in the line or the filter when you detach them. It's also a good idea to have some rags handy. Some vehicles will leak continually until everything is reattached.
Step 5: Push release buttons on filter
Once you’ve located the filter, push the release buttons on either side that are holding it in place. Your model may have clips that require a quick-release tool or screwdriver to detach from the line. Be careful not to kink plastic fuel lines as you detach the filter.
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Do It Right: It may be helpful to push the line into the filter while you’re trying to loosen the clips. |
Step 6: Recycle used fluids
Used automotive fluids are toxic and harmful to the environment and people. Used fuel is considered hazardous waste, so we can’t recycle it in our stores. Most communities have hazardous waste collection sites, so we suggest visiting your city or county website for details.
Step 7: Remove the filter
Disconnect the fuel tube fittings from the filter, then loosen the clamp and remove the filter. Your old filter may or may not have an arrow indicating the direction fuel is flowing, but the new one should. The direction of fuel flow will always be toward the front of the vehicle.
Step 8: Install the new filter
Install the new filter. There are a few types of fittings you could see. Use the fittings that came with the filter to attach it to the fuel line, and secure the clamp to hold it in place.
Step 9: Replace fuel pump relay
Replace the fuel pump relay or fuse, and reattach the negative battery cable.
Step 10: Turn your ignition ON
Turn your ignition to the ON position for a few seconds, but don't start it. Turn it back to the OFF position, and then turn it to the ON position again. This will bring pressure back into the fuel system.
Step 11: Check for leaks
Now check under your vehicle for any leaks. Start the engine and check again for leaks under the vehicle. If you don’t have any leaks, you’re good to go. Safely lower your vehicle.
Shop Filters
Find the right fit for your vehicle. Buy online, and pick up in your local O'Reilly Auto Parts store.
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The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.