Here at Houska Automotive, we are passionate about educating our customers on the inner workings of their vehicles. It is important to us that every vehicle owner feels empowered to make informed decisions about auto maintenance and repairs.
Today, we will be talking all about fuel filters; while fuel filters may seem to be small or inconsequential players in the operation of your vehicle, they are actually incredibly important!
What are Fuel Filters and Why are They Important?
A fuel filter does, well, exactly what it sounds like – it filters fuel! Fuel filters are important because they prevent any impurities – such as rust, debris, or dirt – from entering into your vehicle’s engine. If contaminants enter the engine, your vehicle won’t burn fuel as efficiently as possible. By ensuring that the flow of fuel going into the engine is clean, fuel filters work hard to prevent possible damage to your engine – clean fuel helps your vehicle to function as it’s meant to!
When Should I Change my Fuel Filter?
Like any important auto part, your vehicle’s fuel filter requires regular maintenance. If the filter is clogged by excess debris and contaminants, the fuel pump will work harder than necessary to push fuel through the filter. This means that a clogged filter can ultimately cause wear and damage to your fuel pump, which can be a costly repair. Checking and changing your fuel filter regularly can prevent this from happening!
If you’re unsure about when to change your fuel filter, keep an eye out for the following telltale signs that your filter is clogged: slow acceleration (especially when going uphill), stalling, inconsistent vehicle performance at differing speeds, slow engine response to pressing the gas pedal or a rough idle. If any of these symptoms present themselves in your vehicle, we recommend that you check your fuel filter for clogs right away.
Vehicles can have either one or two fuel filters. How often your filter needs to be changed depends on the age of your vehicle and the miles you put on it. We recommend that you check your owner’s manual for information regarding when to change your fuel filter – then, if you still feel unsure, get in touch with your local fuel filter experts at Houska Automotive.
If you need help locating or replacing your fuel filter, the dedicated team at Houska is here to help. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!