If you don’t have the fuel filter changed every 30,000 miles, there’s a good chance it will get clogged. Unfortunately, this will cause some serious problems with your engine’s performance. We will talk about these problems below and advise that clogged fuel hoses or injectors can also create the issues. Serving the fuel system every 30,000 miles helps to prevent these things.
Difficult Starts
The engine cannot start if it does not have enough fuel in the cylinders to generate combustion. Unfortunately, if the fuel filter is clogged, the engine may be starved of fuel. You may be able to get the engine to start after a few tries, or the engine may not start at all. If you can get the engine started, head straight to our shop so we can replace the fuel filter and restore the fuel’s flow.
Misfiring/Stalling
You will notice that the engine is misfiring and it may even stall. This, again, is because the engine is fuel-starved. If there isn’t a steady supply of fuel in the cylinders for the spark plugs to burn, the engine will cut out and sputter. It may stall in severe cases, especially right after you start the vehicle and when you are seated at an idle, such as sitting in traffic or waiting at an intersection for a green light.
Rough Idling
While you are sitting at an idle, pay attention to how your vehicle sounds and feels. If you can hear the engine cutting out, you’ve got a fuel-delivery problem or a spark plug problem. The former can be caused by a clogged fuel filter. You will also be able to feel your vehicle shake every time the engine cuts out. This can be distressing, as you will fear that the engine is going to stall.
Whining Sounds
Listen carefully, as well, for sounds coming from the fuel tank. If you hear whining or squealing, the fuel pump is going bad. The reason why is that the fuel pump works extra hard to push the fuel into the engine through the clog. This overworks the motor and causes a…
Faulty Fuel Pump
Unfortunately, the fuel pump may not only malfunction but also die prematurely. Again, the pump is working harder than it normally would because it gets resistance from the clogged fuel filter. Consequently, the pump may go bad before its time.
We are here to help, so call us today to schedule a fuel system inspection and cleaning if it has been more than 30,000 miles since its last service.
