Dirty Fuel Filters

We have noticed an unusually high amount of very dirty partially plugged fuel filters lately on vehicle with less than 40,000 miles on them. Is it the fuel you are using? The fuel stations underground tanks? Dirty vehicles from road salt and grime?

What ever the cause may be leaving the fuel filter restricted, dirty or plugged will all lead to bigger problems with your vehicle down the road and costing more money to repair.

The fuel filter is the only line of defense against sediment and dirt particles entering the fuel system and traveling through your fuel injectors and becoming trapped in the injector screen. Over time they will plug up the injectors and cause loss of power, fuel mileage and performance.

The fuel filter also can become plugged and cause excessive back pressure on the fuel pump causing it to work extra hard to force fuel to the front of the vehicle. This becomes an even bigger problem on newer vehicles due to the fuel system design most do not have a fuel return line that goes back to the fuel tank. Instead the fuel stays trapped in the line and builds too much pressure causing premature fuel pump failure.

What can you do about it? Have your fuel filter changed every 30,000 miles or so and have the fuel and air intake systems of your vehicle checked. If it is found to be dirty replace the fuel filter, air filter and perform a professional fuel injection service on your vehicle.

This will add miles of trouble free driving and save you thousands of dollars on repairs.