Filters are an essential part of life. Without a filter, your summer swim in the pool would be a summer swim in a cesspool. Your air filter prevents you from breathing harmful debris and contaminants. Filters are usually there to trap what you don’t need and leave you with what you do need. Your car has many filters to trap harmful particles from entering your engine or cabin. The fuel filter is one of the most essential filters because it works to deliver clean fuel to the combustion chamber continually. If you don’t regularly replace your fuel filter, the filter can become clogged, resulting in severe damage and costly repairs. What happens if you don’t change your fuel filter? Below are a few common issues to expect from a clogged fuel filter:
The Engine Will Stall
A fuel filter that’s clogged or blocked will stall your engine while you’re driving. If a vehicle doesn’t get the proper amount of fuel, it will stall.
The Check Engine Light Will Illuminate
Your vehicle has a sensor that can determine if the fuel pressure has dropped and notify you.
Rough Idling
If a clogged fuel filter prevents your vehicle from getting an adequate amount of fuel into the engine, it’s idling will be rough and uncomfortable.
Your Vehicle Will Fail to Start Altogether
If your fuel filter is only partially clogged, your vehicle may hesitate to start. However, in severe cases, your car won’t start at all.
Most fuel filters should be changed every 30k miles. However, it’s always best to check your vehicle’s owner manual to review your specific vehicle’s recommendations. If you aren’t sure that last time it’s been replaced, give us a call, and our team at Dickerson Automotive would be happy to help. Our expert technicians can perform a fuel pressure test. The fuel filter is one of your vehicle’s most essential aspects, and if it's clogged may prevent it from starting altogether. If you have any questions or concerns, we’d be happy to have one of our expert automotive experts to assist.
