How to Know When Your Car Needs a New Fuel Filter

Vehicles require a certain amount of fuel to start and continue running, which is why proper fuel system maintenance is so important. 

The fuel filter acts as a barrier that cleans out impurities, sediment, rust, or contaminants in the fuel before it reaches the fuel injection system and, ultimately, the engine. 

A decrease in fuel efficiency, a check engine light, and sputtering when you accelerate are some of the signs that you may need to replace your fuel filter. Learn more about how to know when your car needs a new fuel filter here. 

The Car Is Struggling to or Won’t Start

A clogged fuel filter is a common reason that vehicles may struggle to start or, in some cases, won’t start at all. This is because an obstructed fuel filter prevents fuel from passing through it and into the engine. The engine in your vehicle will be starved for fuel, preventing the combustion process from taking place effectively. 

The Car Dies Whilst You’re Driving

If your engine continuously dies while you are driving or stalls frequently when you are idling, it may be due to a dirty fuel filter. In many instances, the vehicle will start normally, but you will start to notice a lack of power while driving. Dirty or blocked fuel filters starve the engine of fuel.

The Car Is Shaking

With most vehicles, it is common to experience mild vibrations. However, if you’re waiting at a stoplight or in stop-and-go traffic and your car starts, vibrating excessively, or idling roughly, it could indicate a clog in the fuel line – most likely at the filter. 

The Car Struggles at Low Speeds

Have you noticed that after driving on freeways or at high speeds, your car struggles to re-adjust to driving at a lower speed? Rough running at slow speeds is usually a sign of a clogged fuel filter. Highway speeds require a higher rate of fuel flow than slower speeds, which could mask the problem, but the problem will become more noticeable at lower speeds, especially as time progresses. 

If you are looking for reliable auto repairs and servicing from experienced mechanics in the Cobb County, Atlanta, or Marietta areas, get in touch with Professional Automotive Repair of Marietta today to find out how we can help you.