You can count on Oxford Automotive for all of your auto service needs including a new fuel filter. Generally, the fuel filter will last approximately 30,000 miles before it needs to be changed. If you fail to change it at this time, however, the filter will clog and affect your engine’s performance. Let’s talk more about this below so you know the signs of a clogged fuel filter.
A Problem Starting the Car
You will start to have a problem getting your car started if the fuel filter is clogged. The reason why is simple: The gasoline or diesel fuel cannot make its way through the filter into the engine. Unfortunately, there may come a point when you won’t be able to start the engine at all. This is a sign that the fuel filter is completely clogged and no gasoline or diesel fuel can get through it.
A Misfiring Engine
If you can get your engine started, there will still be a problem with how it performs. The engine needs a steady stream of fuel into the cylinders to produce the combustion it needs to create power. As the fuel filter gets clogged, the stream of fuel becomes unsteady. Consequently, there may be times when the air and fuel in a cylinder are not fired because there isn’t enough fuel.
The Engine Keeps Stalling
This misfiring can cause the engine to idle roughly and stall. Unfortunately, this will be a perpetual problem until you replace the fuel filter with one that is not clogged. This can make driving your automobile unpredictable and difficult, especially if the engine stalls while you are sitting in a traffic jam.
The Fuel Pump Fails
It might not seem possible, but the clogged fuel filter can actually damage the fuel pump. The fuel pump has an electric motor that helps it draw the fuel out of the tank and push it into the engine. If the fuel meets resistance as it tries to flow through the fuel filter, the fuel pump motor will have to work harder than it normally does. This can cause the fuel pump to fail prematurely.
There Is Whining in the Gas Tank
One sign that the fuel pump is having difficulties is whining in the gas tank. This is the motor making noise because it is under duress. Replacing the fuel filter will make it easier for the motor to get the fuel out of the tank and into the engine.
We can do that here at Oxford Automotive in Oxford, PA, so call us today for a service appointment.