What does a fuel filter do?
The fuel filter (for internal combustion engines) consists of two parts: a filter element and a housing and the design of each fuel filter can be quite different. Replaceable fuel filter elements, in-line filters, and screw-on filters are the common types.
The housing holds the filter element which has tiny holes that allow only clean filtered fuel to pass through. It also captures and holds particles such as rust, dirt or other contaminants that should not pass through the filter element. This prevents debris from entering the engine cylinders through the injectors. Only particles small enough in size not to cause problems e.g. clogged fuel injectors can pass through the filter.
Fuel filters are available in various designs for different vehicles and engines. Some designs have an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber separated by the filter element in a sealed housing. Others can be designed according to the specific needs of the application.
The importance of fuel filter and its benefits
The fuel filter plays a vital role in maintaining the health and performance of your vehicle's engine. Just like a water filter works, the fuel filter removes dirt so your engine runs better. Various contaminants in gasoline such as rust, dirt, and sediment can damage the fuel system and engine.
Benefits of regularly changing the fuel filter
Although many vehicle owners regularly change their engine oil, cabin and air filters, the fuel filter is often overlooked.
The benefits are as follows:
Improved fuel flow
Prevention of fuel system corrosion
Longevity of fuel system components
Protection from pollutants
preventing fuel injector damage
Unobstructed fuel flow
How often should a fuel filter be replaced?
The general recommendation for its replacement is every 20,000 to 30,000 km.
However, this number may vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle, where and how often you drive it, as well as the type of fuel filter the vehicle is equipped with.
Some other factors that can affect the change interval are:
The environment. For example, in areas with extreme weather conditions or dusty roads drivers should replace their fuel filters more often.
The age of the vehicle. Older cars usually have accumulated debris and dirt in the fuel tank that mix and need to be changed at a higher rate than newer cars.
Another way to tell that it's time for a replacement is to visually inspect the old fuel filter. If there are signs of fuel leakage or the smell of gasoline, they should be replaced. In some vehicles there are integrated systems that remind the driver for maintenance through a notification.