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【Meiruier Filter】How often should the fuel filter be replaced

2026-02-03 View:

There is no absolute standard for the replacement cycle of fuel filters, which mainly depends on the following factors:

1. Vehicle manufacturer's advice: This is the most authoritative basis. Please make sure to refer to your 'Owner's Manual' or 'Maintenance Manual'. The manual usually specifies the mileage or time interval for replacing the fuel filter. The recommended replacement cycle for vehicles of different brands and models may vary greatly.
Gasoline cars: The replacement cycle of fuel filters in modern gasoline cars is usually longer, possibly at 20000 kilometers, 30000 kilometers, or even longer. Some even suggest replacing them synchronously with the maintenance cycle (such as 60000 kilometers), or for lifetime (for built-in filters with a long design life).
Diesel vehicles: The fuel filter replacement cycle of diesel vehicles is generally shorter than that of gasoline vehicles, usually around 10000 to 20000 kilometers, because diesel contains relatively more impurities and diesel vehicles have higher requirements for fuel cleanliness (especially engines with high-pressure common rail systems). Diesel car filters often have a water separation function and require more frequent inspection and replacement.

2. Types of fuel filters:
External filter: It is usually easier to replace and the replacement cycle may be relatively flexible.
Built in filter (integrated into the fuel pump module in the fuel tank): The replacement cycle of this filter is usually longer, sometimes consistent with the replacement cycle of the fuel pump module, or designed to be "long-lasting" or even "lifelong" (during the main life cycle of the vehicle). But if the vehicle is used in harsh environments and the oil quality is poor, it may also be necessary to consider replacing the entire module in advance.

3. Fuel quality: If you frequently refuel in areas with poor fuel quality or are unsure about the source of the fuel, the content of impurities and moisture in the fuel will be higher, which will accelerate the clogging of the filter. It is recommended to shorten the replacement cycle appropriately.

4. Driving environment: Although the fuel filter itself is not directly affected by the environment, harsh driving conditions (such as frequent short distance driving causing an increase in moisture in the fuel system) may indirectly affect the burden on the filter.

5. Vehicle performance: If you feel any of the following abnormal situations while driving, even if it has not yet reached the recommended replacement cycle, you should check and consider replacing the fuel filter in a timely manner:
Weak acceleration and decreased power
The engine idles unstably or shakes
difficulty in starting
Significant increase in fuel consumption
The dashboard displays relevant malfunction lights (such as fuel pressure warning light, if equipped)

Summary suggestion:
The first choice is to follow the manufacturer's recommendation: this is the safest and most suitable way to meet your vehicle design requirements.
Attention to diesel vehicles: The replacement cycle of diesel vehicles is usually shorter than that of gasoline vehicles, and special attention should be paid to the water separation function of the filter.
Shorten appropriately when the oil quality is poor: If you are not confident about the quality of the oil, you can replace it slightly earlier than the manufacturer's recommended cycle.
Pay attention to the vehicle status: Abnormal performance is an important signal.
If you are unsure, the safest way is to consult a professional car repair technician, who can provide more specific advice based on your vehicle model, condition, and actual usage.

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