How to Change the Fuel Filter on a Mazda Tribute
by Lee Sallings
Replacing the fuel filter on your Mazda Tribute is an easy, money-saving project that just about anyone can do. The filter is located in a bracket attached to the left frame rail in front of the fuel tank. This filter uses a special quick disconnect fitting to attach the fuel lines to the filter, and the tool to remove the lines is available at your local auto parts store.
Step 1
Raise the left rear of the vehicle with a floor jack and place a jack stand under the rear sub-frame to support the weight of the vehicle should it fall. Every year people are injured or killed by not following this simple safety step.
Step 2
Turn the ignition off and remove the fuel filler cap to relieve any pressure that has built up in the fuel tank from evaporating fuel. This will prevent fuel from spraying and running down your arm when you release the fuel lines.
Step 3
Use the fuel line quick disconnect tool to remove the lines from the fuel filter by slipping the tool into the quick disconnect until it spreads the retainer and allows the line to be removed. Push the line onto the filter while pushing the tool into the fitting, then pull the line off the filter. When both lines are free, unsnap the filter from the bracket.
Step 4
Snap the new filter into the bracket, noting the markings that indicate flow. Flow should always be toward the engine. Push the line fittings onto the filter nipples until a click is felt, and the line can no longer be pulled off the filter.
Step 5
Prime the fuel system by turning the ignition key to the "Run" position for two seconds and then to the "Off" position. Do this three times and then start the engine. Check the filter quick disconnects for leaks then test-drive.
Things You'll Need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Fuel line quick disconnect tools
- New fuel filter
Writer Bio
Lee Sallings is a freelance writer from Fort Worth, Texas. Specializing in website content and design for the automobile enthusiast, he also has many years of experience in the auto repair industry. He has written Web content for eHow, and designed the DIY-Auto-Repair.com website. He began his writing career developing and teaching automotive technical training programs.
