It is recommended that you change the fuel filter in your vehicle every 20,000 to 40,000 miles.
However, what would happen if you ignored this recommendation and left the original fuel filter in place for the entire life of the vehicle?
What does a fuel filter that has been in-use for 300,000 miles look like?
Here’s what YouTuber ChrisFix found:
- The filter is extremely dirty and clogged with dirt and debris
- Fuel flow through the filter is dramatically reduced
- A fuel filter left in place for this long is sure to greatly reduce the performance of your vehicle’s engine
Below, we’ll take a closer look at the important role that your fuel filter plays in your vehicle’s performance as well as what happens when you do not replace your fuel filter at the recommended intervals.
Keeping Your Fuel Clean and Pristine
Every bit of fuel that is pumped into your vehicle’s engine first makes its way through the fuel filter, where it is forced through filter fabric that is designed to catch and store any dirt and debris before the fuel is allowed to pass through the other side.
However, since your fuel filter has no way of getting rid of the crud that it collects over time, this dirt and debris will begin to add up in a noticeable way as the miles on your vehicle start to climb.
As we have already mentioned, it is recommended that you change the fuel filter in your vehicle every 20,000 to 40,000 miles. It is interesting to note that before cutting open the 300,000-mile fuel filter, ChrisFix did say that the van the filter was installed in was still running. However, he didn’t say how well it was running.
Failing to replace your fuel filter can lead to a number of issues such as difficulty accelerating, difficulty starting, shaky engine idling, and an engine that dies without warning. With all of that in mind, it is certainly a good idea to replace your fuel filter regularly and not let it get anywhere near the 300,000-mile mark.
Getting the Maintenance info You Need to Know About Your Vehicle
Did you know that exactly how often you need to replace the fuel filter in your vehicle depends on the make and model that you are driving? Thankfully, Vehicle History makes it easy for you to learn everything there is to know about your specific vehicle, including important maintenance info that will help you keep your vehicle running smoothly for as many years as possible.
