Bring your automobile to CAR FIX in Maryville if it has been over 30,000 miles since you have had the fuel filter changed. By the time the odometer turns 30,000 miles, the fuel filter is most likely getting clogged. As you can imagine, this can seriously affect your engine’s performance because fuel will have a difficult time getting into the engine. Let’s talk more about this below.
Problems Starting the Car
If the fuel is getting stuck behind the clogged fuel filter, you may not be able to start your automobile. The fuel flows through the filter twice to make sure there is no more sediment or dirt in it. It is then pushed into the fuel injectors and sprayed into the cylinders for ignition. If there is little to no fuel in the cylinders, it’s going to be hard to get your automobile started.
Misfiring/Idling Roughly
The engine not only needs fuel in the cylinders for ignition. It also needs fuel in the cylinders while it is running. This is why a clog in the fuel filter can cause the engine to misfire and idle roughly. There is not enough fuel in each cylinder to sustain combustion production. Consequently, as the saying goes, your engine will not be firing on all cylinders.
Frequently Stalling Engine
As the problem gets worse, your engine will start to stall frequently. This is also a sign that the fuel filter is clogged. As an aside, a stalling engine can also point to clogged fuel injectors or worn spark plugs. You never want your engine to stall, especially while you are driving. This can put you in a dangerous situation if the engine stalls and you cannot get it started again.
Damaged Fuel Pump
A clogged fuel filter also puts excess strain on the fuel pump. The fuel pump is responsible for pushing the fuel into the engine. When the fuel hits the clogged filter, everything will slow down. Consequently, the pump will have to work harder to get the fuel into the engine. This can damage the pump beyond repair.
Strange Fuel Tank Noises
A sign that your fuel pump is struggling is strange noises in the fuel tank. Specifically, the fuel pump will start to whine as it struggles to operate. It’s a good idea to drive straight to our shop if you hear whining in the fuel tank.
CAR FIX in Maryville, TN, would be happy to help with all of your automotive service and repair needs. Call us today.
