Fuel filter - what is its function? Does it need to be replaced?
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Where do fuel impurities come from?
In principle, a distinction can be made between external and internal factors. The first includes refueling with contaminated fuel - most often this happens at gas stations with a dubious reputation. Internal factors are contaminants that are found in the fuel system as a result of corrosion and precipitate out of the fuel and accumulate as sediment at the bottom of the tank. No matter where they come from, they end up in the fuel filter, which is designed to stop them before they reach the engine.
Fuel filters - types and design
Depending on the type of fuel to be purified, filters should have a different design. Gasoline reminiscent of a metal can with two nozzles at opposite ends. The fuel enters one port, passes through the filter material that traps impurities, and then exits the filter through another port. This design requires that the filters in vehicles with gasoline engines be mounted horizontally.
Fuel filters used in diesel engines are of a different design because, in addition to retaining contaminants, they are designed to precipitate water and paraffin that precipitate from the fuel. Therefore, diesel filters have an additional sump and are mounted vertically. Due to the tendency of diesel fuel to become cloudy and to precipitate paraffins and water from it, diesel filters have a significantly shorter service life than gasoline filters.
What are the symptoms of a clogged fuel filter?
The most common signs of a clogged fuel filter are:
- engine starting problems
- long start time
- uneven engine operation
- power drop,
- excessive smoke from the exhaust pipe.
Ignoring these symptoms and not changing the filter regularly can damage your injectors, leading to costly repairs.
When are fuel filters changed?
Replacing the fuel filter is one of the necessary maintenance activities. They are replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations, but over the years a few universal tips have developed that work great. In the case of gasoline engines, the fuel filter should be changed at least once every 2 years or 50-60 thousand km. km, whichever comes first. However, in the case of diesel fuel, it is recommended to replace it every year or every 20-30 thousand km. km, whichever comes first.
Fuel filters from well-known manufacturers such as Bosch, Filtron or Febi-Bilstein can be purchased e.g. Intercars shop. In case of doubt, it is worth consulting the hotline staff, who will advise which model is suitable for this car.
