Detailed Instructions for Replacing the Fuel Filter on a 2000 Suzuki Vitara

Open the hood on the Vitara, and set the hood prop. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery using a ratchet and socket. Remove the pressure port cap from the fuel pressure port on top of the fuel rail. Wrap a screwdriver tip in a rag and insert the screwdriver into the center of the port. Depress the pin in the middle of the pressure port to release the fuel pressure in the fuel system. Install the cap onto the pressure port when the fuel pressure has been released.

Move to the rear of the Vitara. Raise the rear with a jack. Place jack stands beneath the rear axle housing, at both ends near the back of the rear wheels. Lower the Vitara onto the jack stands. Lie beneath the rear bumper and slide yourself into position to access the fuel filter. The fuel filter is located near the front passenger side of the fuel tank and is mounted to the chassis on a strap-style bracket.

Place your drain pan beneath the fuel filter line that is farthest away and pointing away from you. Do not place your body or face in the path of the fuel filter line you are going to remove first; there is residual fuel in the line and filter. Move the hose clamp off of the fuel filter line, using pliers to pinch the clamp and open it. Remove the fuel filter line from the main fuel line with one hand while holding the fuel line still with your other hand. Repeat this step to remove the second filter line.

Remove the single mounting bolt from the fuel filter strap bracket using a ratchet and socket. Remove the old filter and the bracket. Slide the filter out of the bracket and place the old filter into your drain pan.

Slide the new filter into the bracket clamp. Install the new filter onto the main lines, making sure the arrow on the filter is pointing toward the front of the truck. Move the hose clamps in place over the filter lines with your pliers, then release them to lock the new filter in place on the main fuel lines. Install the mounting bracket and bolt and tighten the bolt snug with a ratchet and socket.

Move out from beneath the Vitara and remove your drain pan from below the SUV. Raise the rear of the Vitara off of the jack stands, then remove the stands from beneath the Vitara. Lower the Suzuki to the ground.

Step to the front of the Vitara. Connect the negative battery cable back onto the battery and tighten the cable snug with your ratchet and socket. Step to the driver's side of the Vitara.

Turn the ignition key to the accessories position for five seconds without starting the Vitara. Turn the key back off. Repeat this process three times to prime the fuel system with fuel and pressure. Start the Vitara and check beneath for any sign of a fuel leak. If a leak is detected, raise the Vitara back up and check your hose and clamp connections.