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The fuel filter is responsible for removing contaminants, so your vehicle’s engine only receives pure, clean fuel. If it’s not replaced when the manufacturer recommends, it becomes clogged with those contaminants. That’ll leave you needing roadside assistance because the engine can’t start without fuel. You can avoid this happening by understanding the common signs that it’s time to replace your fuel filter.

How Can You Diagnose a Failing Fuel Filter?

1. Engine Hesitation

When the fuel filter needs to be replaced, the engine isn’t as responsive as it should be. When you step on the gas pedal, you’ll notice a temporary hesitation before the engine revs.

That’s because the filter has become clogged with contaminants, so it’s unable to supply the engine with a reliable flow of fuel. This is dangerous because you won’t have the level of control over the vehicle that you’re used to.

2. Diminished Acceleration

The unreliable injection of fuel that comes with an old fuel filter is noticeable when you’re trying to accelerate. This is especially true when you’re accelerating under heavy loads, such as hauling cargo or passing another vehicle on an incline.

The engine doesn’t have enough fuel for the combustion chamber, so the computer that controls the system minimizes the output of power to protect the engine.

3. Idle Shaking 

The typical RPM for an idling vehicle is between 600 and 1,000, but when the fuel filter needs to be replaced, it dips down below those levels. Since the engine isn’t getting a sufficient flow of fuel, it’s unable to maintain a steady combustion process.

As the RPMs are reduced, it causes the entire vehicle to shake. Sometimes, it’ll even shut down entirely when in the idle position due to lack of fuel.

4. Reduced Gas Mileage

Roadside AssistanceDespite a bad fuel filter restricting the amount of fuel that gets into the engine, it actually reduces the gas mileage of your vehicle.

The clog in the filter prevents the engine from getting the required fuel, so to compensate, it demands faster fuel pumping, which drains the supply faster.

5. Engine Failure 

When a faulty fuel filter gets bad enough, the engine won’t start at all, and you’ll require roadside assistance to tow the vehicle. The clog gets so severe that the engine isn’t able to get the necessary fuel to start the engine up. This issue first presents itself when the engine struggles to turn over, and if the filter isn’t replaced, it won’t be able to start at all.

 

If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road because of a bad fuel filter, contact Platinum Towing and Transport. This family-owned and -operated company provides expert level roadside assistance in the greater St. Louis, MO, area. They’re available 24/7 and will come to you to replace the filter and get you back on the road quickly and efficiently. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (314) 300-8694 to schedule assistance.  
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