How to Change a Fuel Filter in a 2003 Lancer

by Jericho McCune

The Mitsubishi Lancer is a family car in the same family as the Plymouth Colt. When the fuel filter on a 2003 Lancer gets clogged or damaged, it can reduce the vehicle's gas mileage or even cause it to stall erratically. The manufacturer suggests replacing the fuel filter every 15,000 miles if it hasn't been replaced sooner due to natural wear and tear. Changing the fuel filter requires basic understanding of auto maintenance and can be done quickly.

Step 1

Park the Lancer on a level surface and set the emergency brake. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable. Open the gas cap to relieve pressure in the gas tank.

Step 2

Loosen the tightening nuts holding the fuel lines to the fuel filter. The fuel filter is on the passenger side firewall near the rear of the engine compartment. Unplug the lines from the filter. Catch any fuel that leaks from the lines with the rag.

Step 3

Remove the bolts holding the filter to the mounting bracket. Remove the old fuel filter.

Step 4

Place the new filter on the mounting bracket and bolt it in place.

Step 5

Plug the fuel lines into the filter and tighten the bolts by hand. Finish tightening them with a socket wrench until they are snug and the wrench becomes difficult to turn.

Step 6

Connect the battery cable and start the vehicle. Let it run for a couple of minutes and check the new filter for fuel leaks, especially where the lines connect to the filter.

References

Things You'll Need