How to Replace a Fuel Filter in a Chevy Impala

How to Replace a Fuel Filter in a Chevy Impala. The symptoms of a bad fuel filter include a loss in horse power, very sluggish acceleration and in some cases, difficulty starting. The solution to these problems is replacing the fuel filter. The Chevrolet Impala has the fuel filter serviced as described here with the exception of the Grand Prix model with a 5.3L engine. It has the filter in the gas tank and is not serviceable.

Locate the fuel filter. Normally this is on the passenger side wheel well or just inside the engine compartment. Before removal of the filter, relieve the pressure in the fuel system by pulling the fuel pump fuse, and allowing the vehicle to run until it stalls due to lack of fuel.

Disconnect the negative battery cable. Disconnecting the negative battery prevents explosion and flammability danger because where there is no spark, there can't be an explosion.

Remove the filter from the mounting bracket and then unscrew the threaded fitting at the outlet end of the filter with an open end wrench to fit. Now disconnect the quick connect fitting at the head of the filter and empty any excess gas into the container.

Replace the filter into the holder and torque the holding bolt to 15 ft. lbs. Connect the quick connect fitting to the inlet side of the filter and then screw the threaded fitting into the outlet end of the filter and tighten to 22 foot pounds.

Reconnect the negative battery cable and start the ignition. To fill the filter and get gas to the ignition system, turn the ignition on for 2 seconds and then off for 10 seconds. The vehicle should start after this. Check for any fuel leaks in the system before starting. Now start the car.