Fuel Filter change & replacement made easy

The fuel filter is part of the fuel system, the fuel runs through the filter from the fuel tank before it enters the fuel pump. It ensures the fuel coming from the fuel tank is clean of debris.

• Mechanic will inspect the fuel filter and the fuel supply system.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the fuel filter.
• Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will inspect the fuel supply system again for any leaks and test drive the car.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a fuel filter change is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

• When the 'Check Engine' light is on.
• When the engine runs rough (power delivery is not as smooth as usual).
• When fuel consumption of the car appears higher than usual.
• When you experience problems starting the car.

A fuel filter change usually takes around 1 hour, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

Over time, a fuel filter can get rather dirty, clog up or fail completely. There will be a reduced flow of fuel towards the engine or, in extreme cases, dirty fuel will pass through the filter and onto the engine. Eventually, a fuel filter that does not work correctly can lead to further damage.

Should you experience problems with the fuel supply, then it is advisable to have the fuel filter inspected and, if necessary, have it replaced. Seeing that the fuel filter is a component that is especially prone to wear it should always be replaced as and when stipulated in the servicing guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

If you suspect there is any issue with the fuel filter or there are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic as soon as possible, driving the vehicle may lead to further complications and will eventually leave you stranded if the fuel filter becomes blocked.

The fuel filter condition itself is not checked in an MOT, but like the rest of the system it is inspected by the MOT tester to ensure there are no leaks and parts are secure and safe. If anything is found to be malfunctioning or not as it should be, it could likely result in an MOT fail.

Over the course of time, old fuel filters can accumulate debris, can clog and eventually stop working completely. It can reduce the amount of fuel going to the engine thus causing engine problems.

Many manufacturers recommended changing the fuel filter for optimum performance every 30,000 miles or so. Some newer cars have better fuel filters that don't require replacements until 50,000 miles. The best thing to do is to check the vehicle handbook for guidance specific to fuel system on your vehicle.

Yes the car may still be driveable, however, remember if the fuel filter is old and dirty, it can clog the fuel injectors in your car and cause your car to run less efficiently. If you have a clogged fuel filter, it will cause your car to run much less efficiently, and even come to a stop.

If you don't replace it, the clogged fuel filter will cause low fuel pressure which will result in the engine misfiring. This can then result in poor fuel economy, the car idling, completely stall and may even cause the check engine light to come on.

Generally the condition of the fuel filter would not lead to an MOT failure, however if there's a leak around the fuel filter component or is otherwise deemed dangerous it can lead to an MOT failure. Fuel system checks for leaks and condition are an important part of the MOT inspection.

Typically, the cost for a fuel filter change is on average £80, and the price can range from £65 to £90. The exact price will of course depend on the make and model of the car as well as your location.

The fuel filter should be changed at the recommended service interval for your vehicle, this is typically around every 2 - 3 years.

It is typically recommended to change a fuel filter every 30,000 - 40,000 miles or every 2 to 3 years. This can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the manufacturer's recommendations. However, sometimes the fuel filter can get clogged earlier which can lead to contaminated fuel and reduced performance. This is when you should definitely change the fuel filter.

The average fuel filter lasts between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, although some can last over 100,000 miles. Many newer cars have a lifetime fuel filter that never needs to be replaced. Manufacturer guidelines will provide more information about your specific make and model.

The fuel filter is ususually located somewhere between the fuel tank and fuel injection system, it will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. If you're looking to replace the fuel filter with a new part then it is best to get a qualified mechanic to check and get it replaced if needed.