Car Fuel Filter

The fuel filter, also known as the gasoline filter, is considered one of the important components of a car. The fuel that enters the fuel tank may, during transportation, storage, or even while being used in the tank, contain impurities, microscopic particles, or additional substances such as water, foreign materials, and contaminants. Sometimes these particles may be so small that they are not visible to the naked eye.

Since the functioning of the fuel supply system components is highly sensitive, the entry of any kind of impurities and small or large contaminants can damage and quickly wear out these parts. In addition, the entry of water into these parts can cause rust and corrosion of the delicate components of the fuel supply system, leading to irregular engine performance, exhaust smoke emission, and reduced engine power.

To prevent these risks in the fuel supply system, a fuel filter is used. After being pumped from the tank, the fuel is transferred to the filter to separate contaminants and impurities, and then it is delivered to the engine for combustion.

In modern light vehicles, fuel filters are divided into two types: in-tank and out-of-tank filters:

In-tank filter: These filters are placed inside the fuel pump, and their lifespan is approximately three times longer than out-of-tank filters because the filter paper used in this type is three times more than that of out-of-tank filters. The material of these filters is mostly plastic.

Out-of-tank filter: This type of filter is usually installed on the fuel inlet pipe to the engine.

Fuel Filter Function

Fuel filters, as their name suggests, perform the filtration process and are usually made of paper. The separating part of these filters is made of a special type of paper, and in order to provide higher efficiency and a more effective filtration surface, it is designed in a pleated form and placed inside a metal housing. Although other types of filters such as felt and fabric filters also exist, their production and use have decreased nowadays. The pore size of the paper used in the fuel filter varies depending on its application.

Several factors can cause gradual clogging of the fuel filter: large amounts of rust and debris may accumulate inside the fuel tank, natural condensation and moisture inside the tank can cause rust, impurities may enter the tank during refueling, and the longer the filter is not replaced, the more debris accumulates inside it, eventually blocking the flow of fuel to the engine.

Effects of a Dirty Fuel Filter

If the fuel filter (commonly known as the gasoline strainer) is dirty or clogged, it will cause reduced engine efficiency, dirty injectors, engine misfiring when starting, shortened fuel pump lifespan, oxygen sensor failure, and even burned engine valves.

Also, if your car has difficulty starting, especially during a cold start, the cause may be a dirty fuel filter.

If your car’s fuel filter is clogged, when starting the car the engine will not start immediately after turning the key. You may need to wait a few seconds until the fuel pressure in the rail reaches the appropriate level, and you may even need to attempt starting multiple times.

A Dirty Fuel Filter Reduces Engine Performance

With a clogged fuel filter, the efficiency and power of your engine will significantly decrease, reducing the engine’s pulling power. In this condition, the engine RPM rises more slowly, which you will notice when driving uphill or when using the air conditioner. During hot seasons, this issue may also cause the car’s temperature gauge to rise.

Fuel Filter Replacement Time

A dirty fuel filter clogs the injectors, which significantly reduces engine efficiency and increases fuel consumption. In fact, a clogged filter allows dirt and fine particles to pass through and enter the injectors, eventually blocking the fuel injection path and disabling the injector.

A change in the fuel pump sound, which is heard immediately after turning the ignition key, can also be a sign of a clogged filter. Although drivers often get used to the sound of the fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter causes unusual noises from it.

When these signs appear, it’s time to replace the fuel filter. Timely replacement of this component is very important and effective. To prevent the mentioned damages, you should replace the filter at the proper intervals. In the Iranian market, Serkan fuel filters are one of the best options. With over 40 years of experience in manufacturing various types of filters, this company offers high-quality products to the market.