18 May, 2023
A fuel filter can become clogged for various reasons, including contaminated fuel, normal wear and tear, lack of maintenance, and more. A clogged fuel filter can cause a wide range of problems. At Chloe's Auto Repair, we are familiar with the problems caused by clogged fuel filters. Let’s walk you through some of the problems you may experience when your fuel filters become clogged.
When you start your car, the fuel pump delivers fuel to the engine to fire it up. If the fuel filter is clogged, the engine may not start because it’s starved of fuel. If you are experiencing trouble starting the engine, you may be dealing with a clogged fuel filter. Starting issues can cause inconveniences and leave you stranded. It’s important to schedule an appointment with a reputable auto repair shop and have a clogged fuel filter replaced.
A clogged fuel filter can deplete the fuel supply going to the engine and cause problems with stalling in severe cases. Without sufficient fuel supply, the engine won’t be able to sustain its operation, thereby leading to a loss of power and an engine shutdown. Think of it like something blocking the straw while you try to drink juice through it. Engine stalling can be a dangerous situation because a sudden loss of power to a vehicle’s system, especially when you’re driving at a high speed, increases the risk of accidents.
Restricted fuel supply to the engine may cause the engine to hesitate or sputter, especially when you’re accelerating, driving up a steep slope, or under heavy loads. The engine control module reduces power to prevent engine damage when it detects a shortage of fuel being delivered to the injectors. If you’ve noticed a decline in engine performance, seek professional assistance from a reputable auto repair shop.
A clogged fuel filter can result in a strong odor of unburned fuel in the exhaust fumes and fuel vapor odor around the fuel tank. This usually happens as a result of incomplete fuel combustion, fuel leaks, and a compromised fuel vapor recovery system. However, strong odors can also point to other issues not related to a clogged fuel filter. Whatever the case, strong odors mean you should schedule auto repair service and have your car checked.
A clogged fuel filter can overwork the fuel pump motor and cause it to fail prematurely. It’s recommended to replace your fuel pump every 100,000 miles.
While this may seem counterintuitive, a clogged fuel filter can reduce fuel efficiency. When there’s insufficient fuel supply to the engine, a vehicle’s power control module commands more fuel to mix with the air to compensate for a lean air-fuel mixture. This leads to reduced fuel efficiency without a corresponding increase in engine performance.
If you’ve noticed symptoms of a bad fuel filter, schedule an appointment with the experts at Chloe’s Auto Repair. The knowledgeable and experienced mechanics at Chloe’s Auto Repair can help you with all of your auto repair needs. From engine repair and diagnostics to fuel injection service and fuel filter replacement, Chloe’s Auto Repair offers dependable auto repair services under one roof.
Give us a call today to set up a service visit.
