The fuel filter can get clogged of is not been replaced after 30,000 miles. This is something that we do here at our shop. We also flush the fuel system to make sure the hoses in the injectors are not clogged. If it has been longer than 30,000 miles since you have had your fuel filter replaced, you may run into the following problems because there is not enough fuel making its way past the filter.
Hard Starts/No Starts
Obviously, it is going to be difficult to start the engine if there is not enough fuel in the cylinders. A clogged fuel filter can inhibit the flow of the fuel into the combustion chamber. If some of the fuel makes its way through the filter, you may have a difficult time starting your automobile. If the fuel cannot make its way through the filter, your car won’t start at all.
The Engine Misfires
Let’s assume that you got your vehicle started. The combustion chamber still needs a steady stream of fuel in order for the engine to keep running. You need fuel in each cylinder. If there is a problem getting fuel into all of the cylinders, the engine will misfire. In other words, the cylinders that do not have enough fuel in them will not fire during the combustion process.
The Idle Is Rough
This will make your engine idle roughly and struggle to accelerate. You will also be able to feel the engine cutting out while you are driving. Unfortunately, the only way to resolve this issue is to replace the fuel filter. Again, this needs to be done every 30,000 miles. In addition to the engine performance problems, you may also have an issue with your fuel economy.
The Fuel Pump Suffers
Finally, a clogged fuel filter will make the fuel pump’s life extremely difficult. The minute the fuel hits the clogged fuel filter, it will stop or slow down. This will cause the fuel pump motor to work even harder to get the fuel through the filter. As the motor struggles, it will start to squeal or whine in the fuel tank. If you hear this noise, no that you have fuel pump trouble.
In fact, the fuel pump motor can burn itself out trying to get the fuel into the engine. This is why a 30,000-mile fuel service is so important for your automobile. Call our shop today if your vehicle needs a fuel service.
