How to Replace a Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Filter

by Leonardo R. Grabkowski

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The Mitsubishi Mirage (1997 to 2002 model) is equipped with a 1.5L SOHC four-cylinder engine. The Mirage, like all other modern vehicles, uses electronic fuel injection. The fuel filter in your Mirage plays a vital role in keeping the system operating efficiently. From time to time, the filter may become clogged with contaminants. If this is the case, the filter requires replacement; it cannot be serviced or cleaned. The fuel filter in your Mirage is located in the engine compartment. Replacing the fuel filter is not recommended for persons not experienced with automobiles.

Step 1

Turn your engine off. Remove the rear seat cushion (pull the straps forward) to access the fuel pump service cover.

Step 2

Remove the screws from the service cover. Disconnect the fuel pump electrical connection. Open the fuel filler door and unscrew the gas cap.

Step 3

Crank the engine. Let it run until it shuts off from fuel starvation. Turn the engine back off. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable (-) with your pliers.

Step 4

Locate the fuel filter. The Mirage's fuel filter is mounted on the driver's side firewall in the engine compartment (close to the windshield). If you aren't sure what a fuel filter looks like, please see the Resources section to help you identify it.

Step 5

Put on your gloves and goggles for protection. Wrap the fuel filter line connections with a shop rag.

Step 6

Attach one adjustable wrench to the fuel filter nut (this method is referred to as a "backup wrench") to secure it. Attach the other adjustable wrench to the banjo bolt attached to the feed line. Turn the wrench attached to the banjo bolt while holding the wrench attached to the fuel filter nut.

Step 7

Disconnect the engine feed line. Let the shop rag absorb any fuel (there will probably be a small amount dripping from the lines).

Step 8

Disconnect the fuel line. Keep one of the adjustable wrenches attached to the fuel filter nut, and then turn the flare nut beneath it. Let the shop rag absorb any fuel.

Step 9

Remove the bolt securing the fuel filter to the mounting bracket. Lift the old fuel filter from the bracket.

Step 10

Insert the new fuel filter into the mounting bracket, with the fuel filter's arrow facing the engine feed line (do not mount it backwards). Tighten the bolts securing the fuel filter to the mounting bracket.

Step 11

Attach the fuel lines. Use the adjustable wrenches to tighten the fuel line, and then tighten the engine feed line. Reconnect the negative battery cable and the fuel pump connection (under the rear seat).