How to Change an Alero Fuel Filter
by Baptist Johnson
The Alero was a compact car produced by Oldsmobile from 1999 to 2004. The fueling system on the Oldsmobile Alero was an in-line system, meaning the fuel filter is located along the fuel line. As fuel is pumped from the fuel tank to the fuel injector, the filter strains the fuel for dirt and rust particles. This process helps keep the engine clean and increases the life and performance of the engine. Changing the fuel filter may be necessary as the fuel filter becomes clogged with too much dirt. Use these instructions for any model Oldsmobile Alero between the years of 1999 and 2004.
Step 1
Park your Oldsmobile Alero on level ground in a safe location. Engage the parking brake or apply tire stops to the wheels of the vehicle. Unscrew the gas filler cap from the fuel tank. Open the hood and disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
Step 2
Crawl under the vehicle from the rear end. Locate the fuel filter just below the trunk area near the rear of the fuel tank. Identify the fuel filter as a silver or black cylindrical container attached to a black hose at both ends.
Step 3
Inspect the fuel filter and notice that it is attached to the fuel line via a large bolt. Loosen this bolt using two wrenches. Steady the fuel line with one wrench while you twist the bolt with the other wrench. Ensure that you do not twist the fuel line, as this will damage the fuel line.
Step 4
Compress the tabs on the quick-connect fittings to release the fuel line from the fuel filter. Slide the fuel filter out of the mounting bracket. Replace the old fuel filter with a new fuel filter by sliding a new filter into the mounting bracket. Align the fuel line with the fuel filter and press the two together until you hear an audible click.
Step 5
Secure the fuel line in place by tightening the bolt over the connection between the fuel line and the fuel filter. Crawl from under the vehicle.
Step 6
Tighten the gas filler cap to the fuel tank. Go to the hood area and connect the negative cable to the battery. Turn the vehicle on and allow it to idle for a few minutes to pressurize the fuel line.
Tips
- Try using an Az brand fuel filter with the part number FF4508.
- Always wear gloves and protective eye wear when changing the fuel filter on your vehicle.
Things You'll Need
- New fuel filter
- Adjustable wrenches, 2
- Gloves
- Protective eye wear
Warnings
- Keep open flames and lit tobacco away when working around the fueling system.
Writer Bio
Baptist Johnson was first published in 2000 when a poem he wrote won first prize in a local writing contest. He also writes and edits for Etched Press Society, a micro-publishing company based in Wilmington, N.C. Johnson has a Bachelor of Science in business administration from East Carolina University.
