Ford F-150 Fuel Filter Replacement Costs

What is the fuel filter and how does it work?

The fuel filter is made of cellulose or synthetic-based filter media that traps extremely tiny contaminants, such as rust particles and dirt, present in the fuel as it flows from the fuel tank to the fuel injectors. The filter media is sealed within a cylindrical shaped housing that looks like a tiny soda can. You will most often find the fuel filter plumbed into the high-pressure fuel supply line beneath the car, right next to a sturdy frame rail. Some fuel filters, particularly on diesel-powered vehicles, have water traps as well. Some newer cars do not have serviceable fuel filters as the filter is built into the fuel pump located in the fuel tank.

The fuel filter holds an important place in your car’s engine: The fuel filter filters the fuel that the fuel pump pumps. (Got that?) If the fuel filter isn’t doing its job, fuel can’t get to the engine in sufficient enough quantities to give you the performance you expect. Think about a window screen caked with mud and you’ll start to get the picture.

If the fuel filter needs changing, you might start seeing certain symptoms:

• Problems with Starting: Or maybe you Ford does start, but it takes a few attempts.
• Stalling: Your definitely don’t want your car to die at the wrong time. Pay special attention if you stall while idling at a red light or stop sign.
• Excessive Vibration While Driving: If you feel the engine idling roughly or lurching forward, that can be a sign of a clogged fuel filter.
• Rough Slow-Speed Cruising: Highway cruising might be fine, but struggles at slower speeds could mean you need to replace your fuel filter.

For more about diagnosing if your car needs a new fuel filter, read the full expert article