gebo

In looking over the post on changing a fuel filter, what guidelines do you use in determining when to change? So many miles, so many months, do you ever,....

daven3

I changed my fuel filter due to an acceleration issue I have. When I questioned both the dealer and my Lexus mechanic, they both said they have rarely had to change one. Even with 140k on it like mine. I did change it anyway to see if it cured the problem because that is what it feels like, fuel delivery problem, but it did not work. Still there. BUt at least I know it is new now. No harm done...I question what makes you think you have to change it at all?

wwest

If you have over 100k and you accidentally run the tank dry all of the sediment in the tank will likely end up in the filter.

THEN you might want to seriously consider repalcing the filter, especially if at WOT the engine surges or doesn't seem to "put out".

daven3

Now that has my interest peaked...I wonder if that could have happened when I replaced it as well. I drained the gas almost entirely out and then refilled it with new gas after I replaced the filter with a new one. It still surges and actually apears a bit worse now. Should someone drain the entire tank and then fill it with new gas? What is the best way to get that sediment out?

gebo

Daven,

I just figure there comes a point in time where the fuel filter has absorbed/blocked its capacity. Since I can get one for $20.00, I figure it couldn't hurt to change it.

Pilot

I just changed my fuel filter. I bought a OEM from the local Lexus dealer. The filter is located under the car on the left side, forward of the fuel tank. It has a protective cover on it, and is hard to locate. I had no idea when it was last changed, and wanted to make sure I never got stranded with a plugged filter, with not knowing when it had been last changed.

Pilot

91 LS 400

gebo

Well, 100,000 miles, 150,000 miles, 5 or 10 years, what's the consensus on when to change?

wwest

Don't bother with the fuel filter unless you or your mechanic suspect it due to engine surging or engine going "flat" at high RPM/power.

If you self fuel and ecounter a slow running pump advise the attendant that the inline fuel filter needs to be changed.

Very unusual to find a fuel filter so clogged it restricts flow these days. Helps that the pump is now in the tank.

daven3

Does the engine knock when this happens? At WOT the engine just chokes and knocks as it gathers power. Then it comes on in a rush. I replaced my fuel filter trying to fix the issue, and drained the tank almost all the way. Replaced with fresh fuel, but when I went to start it is was dry and it had to pull gas in from the tank for a second to start. Did I pull all the sediment into the new filter?

wwest

I really don't have a clue, but it is certainly a possibility.

How much for a new fuel filter and the time to change it out again?

gebo

about $20.00 for part. 6.50/hr for labor

Pilot

I recommend only Lexus OEM parts. The fuel filter is about $20.00.
It will take maybe 10 to 15 minutes max to change it out. If it was up on a rack, it would take less time. I jacked up my car in my driveway on the left side, and did it myself.
Fuel filters for most fuel injection systems, filter at close to 6 microns. Most oil filters are about 25 to 40 micons. To put this in perspective, you cannot see with the naked eye an object below around 70 microns, on a white peice of paper! It is this very fine filtration that can cause low fuel delivery to your engine if the filter is somewhat dirty. Your fuel injectors require very clean fuel so as not to plug the nozle. This is the reason for the high quality fuel filters. I do not trust aftermarket filters to filter this fine, so always stick to Lexus OEM.
I choose to change mine at least every 30K miles or so.
I am not sure what milege Lexus says to change the filter.