How to Replace a KIA Fuel Filter
by Russell WoodOne of the regular maintenance items for your Kia vehicle is changing the fuel filter. Like any filter, its job is to filter out impurities in the product being filtered through it. In this case, the filter ensures that the fuel coming from the tank doesn't have any problems like dirt or rust that would potentially make it into the fuel injectors, and the engine, causing damage. Some people are intimidated by replacing a fuel filter, so they put it off or don't get it done. In reality, it's pretty easy to do, and just takes about 15 minutes and some hand tools. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2005 Kia Spectra with the 2.4L engine, but the process is the same for most other Kia vehicles as well.
Step 1
Raise up the Kia vehicle using the jack and secure the vehicle on jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is secure before you crawl underneath the vehicle.
Step 2
Open the gas door and unscrew the gas cap. This will help relieve the pressure in the gas tank. Some fuel will still dribble out when you change the filter, but this will minimize the pressure.
Step 3
Crawl underneath the vehicle and locate the gas tank. The fuel filter is just in front of the tank toward the exhaust.
Step 4
Unbolt the fuel filter from the fuel filter bracket using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set.
Step 5
Unplug both fuel lines attached to the fuel filter by pushing in the retaining clips. This will cause some fuel to spill, so be ready for it.
Step 6
Pull out the old fuel filter and put the new fuel filter into the bracket. Make sure to take notice of which direction the flow is labeled on the filter; make sure it points away from the tank and toward the engine.
Step 7
Push the fuel lines into the fuel filter until they clip in place. Bolt in the fuel filter using the 3/8-inch ratchet and sockets.
Step 8
Raise the vehicle off the jack stands and lower it to the ground. Replace the gas cap and start the engine to check for leaks. If there are leaks, check your connections.
Things You'll Need
- Jack
- Jack stands
- 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
- Fuel filter
Writer Bio
Russell Wood is a writer and photographer who attended Arizona State University. He has been building custom cars and trucks since 1994, including several cover vehicles. In 2000 Wood started a career as a writer, and since then he has dedicated his business to writing and photographing cars and trucks, as well as helping people learn more about how vehicles work.
