Signs of a Clogged Fuel Filter

Most of us face a common problem with our vehicles: we are unable to decide where the problem exactly lies. Very often a car problem is a sign of a clogged fuel filter. What is a fuel filter? A fuel filter filters out dirt and impurities from the fuel, thus preventing them from reaching the fuel pumps and injectors. These impurities can ruin the fuel pumps, injectors and also hamper engine performance. Here are the signs of a clogged fuel filter.

Symptoms of a Clogged Fuel Filter

If you feel that your fuel filter has a problem, remove the fuel filter and blow into it. If air doesn't pass through, then it is a sign of a clogged fuel filter. It signifies that the fuel filter needs to be replaced. Some of the other symptoms are

• Starting Problem: Trouble in starting the engine is the most common situation faced by car owners. A problem with the fuel filter leads to starting issues. If the engine does not start at all, it is a sign that the fuel filter is totally clogged. If the engine takes too long to start, then it is a sign that the fuel filter is partially blocked.
• Engine Stoppage: You are at a signal, your vehicle stops and refuses to start. If you are navigating through steep slopes, the engine behaves as though you are running out of gas and eventually stops abruptly. If this is a regular feature with your vehicle, it means that the engine is not getting adequate supply of fuel. Insufficient fuel supply causes the engine to stall; fuel filter clogging can lead to insufficient fuel supply.
• Problem in Accelerating: If inspite of stepping on the gas, the speed of the vehicle is the same (no acceleration), then it is a clear sign of a clogged fuel filter.
• Engine Performance Issue: If you realize that your engine is no more fuel efficient and is also behaving erratically, its time to clean or replace your fuel filter.
• Engine Misfiring: If the sound of your vehicle engine has changed and it is misfiring, a clogged fuel filter could be the reason behind the same. Very often it just needs good cleaning up.
• Exhaust Fume Odor : Sometime the car exhausts foul smelling fumes. Such fumes means that the fuel filter needs replacement.

For the longevity of your fuel filter, it is always good to have it cleaned at regular intervals. Whenever you notice any one of the above signs of a clogged fuel filter, clean it. Most of the vehicle manufacturers suggest that the fuel filters be changed once in five years or after the vehicle has run approximately 50,000 miles. But the mechanics choose to disagree with the manufacturers. They are of the opinion that changing a fuel filter once in five years is very unrealistic as the fuel filters tend to get clogged and need frequent / regular cleaning and / or replacement. Many a times, the fuel may also contain alcohol or the fuel tank may rust, leading to a clogged fuel filter. Gasoline sold at 'cut-rate' gas stations contains a large amount of impurities, giving rise to fuel filter problems. I guess its best to just change or clean the fuel filter, when you notice any one of the signs of a clogged fuel filter.