Replacing a diesel filter – This is how it’s done!

A dirty or clogged diesel filter can quickly lead to considerable problems. Therefore, it is not only important to check it regularly, but also to replace the fuel filter when necessary. And a visit to a specialist workshop is only required for very few vehicles. As a rule, you can replace the fuel filter yourself without any problems. Below is all the important information about the diesel filter and its replacement.

Functions of the diesel fuel filter in detail

The diesel filter serves to protect the engine and extend its service life. Even high-quality petrol can contain tiny floating particles that could interfere with the sensitive pistons inside the engine.

That is why the fuel filter ensures that all liquid is filtered on its way into the engine, so that no faults can occur here. In the process, the floating particles still may stick to the filter and clog it up more and more over time. In such a case, replacing the fuel filter is the only right decision. This is because a diesel fuel filter can neither be refurbished nor cleaned.

A cross-section of a filter would show that in most cases it consists of encapsulated fine paper layers. These would not survive cleaning. Thus, replacing the fuel filter is usually the only correct alternative.

Diesel filter ► Large selection in our online shop in stock up from only £ 1,97 order now! ⇒

This is how you know a fuel filter is defective

Clogging of the fuel filter is a gradual process that is initially inconspicuous. But gradually the signs accumulate, and the first failure symptoms begin to show.

Symptoms of a clogged diesel filter include the following:

These are all signs of the clogged fuel filter. However, since these symptoms may also have other causes, it makes sense to check the filter first. Usually, it is the least expensive component that may be responsible for these symptoms. In addition, checking the filter and replacing it if necessary, can be done quickly.

Replacement interval for diesel fuel filters

The replacement intervals for the fuel filter are not specified precisely and may vary from vehicle to vehicle and depend on the mileage. The recommended replacement intervals are usually stated in the vehicle’s service book. However, it is safe to say that the intervals should be shortened if the vehicle is driven a lot. The age of the vehicle also plays a role. The older the vehicle, the shorter the intervals between replacements should be.

To replace or to have it replaced?

Basically, you can change a diesel fuel filter yourself. However, there are some restrictions.

• Firstly, a lifting platform or workshop pit should be available, as only a few fuel filters can be replaced directly from the engine compartment.
• Also, the escaping fluids should be collected.
• Probably the third difficulty concerns vehicles with diesel engines. These should not draw air, so that only the fuel filter should be refilled with diesel before installation.
• The air in the lines should also be removed with a special pump.

However, these devices are rarely available to amateurs and hobby mechanics. If you drive a diesel, you should therefore leave the replacement of the fuel filter to a workshop.

Replacing the diesel filter step by step

As written above, we will limit ourselves here to the replacement of the fuel filter in petrol engines. And this is actually quite easy to do.

1. Move the vehicle onto a lift (if the filter cannot be changed from the engine compartment).

2. Locate the diesel fuel filter.

3. Use a suitable spanner to loosen the fastenings.

4. Prepare a collection container.

5. Remove the fuel filter.

6. Install the new diesel filter.

7. Fill the fuel filter with fuel.

8. Be sure to fasten all elements again.

Pay attention to the following points

Basically, replacing the fuel filter is very simple and straightforward. However, you should make sure that you collect the escaping fuel safely. It is also advisable to work with disposable gloves to avoid coming into contact with the fuel.

You should also avoid open flames at all costs during the work. If you do not have the necessary tools, you should never replace a diesel filter on your own. This may lead to engine damage, and the repair costs will exceed the costs of replacing the fuel filter beyond compare.

Cost of a diesel filter and its replacement

As a rule, fuel filters for almost all vehicles are easy to obtain. This means that a visit to a workshop is not that expensive as well. Changing a fuel filter on petrol engines can be done in just under 30 minutes.

The work on diesel engines takes a little longer, so that a working time of just under an hour should be expected. Of course, the cost of a filter itself should also be considered. But the prices are quite reasonable. A new Bosch fuel filter usually costs around 3-4 pounds, depending on the make of the vehicle.

Foto: yanik88, Tonkovic, Maxop-Plus, Wachira W., Nikom nik sunsopa, Anze Furlan, Burdun Iliya, Mr.Natthawut Manyean, wavebreakmedia, LEVCHENKO HANNA, Sharomka / shutterstock.com