The fuel filter in your diesel-powered vehicle is there to catch dirt and debris and to ensure that your vehicle is provided with fresh, clean fuel at all times. The fuel filter is one of the cheapest parts of your diesel's fuel system, and it's also one of the most important. Changing your fuel filter a bit more often can help prevent problems with your fuel system and can extend the longevity of your vehicle. These are a few signs that you should be changing your diesel fuel filter more frequently.
1. Your Vehicle Sits for Extended Periods of Time
Even if you have not reached the suggested mileage for a fuel filter change, you may need to go ahead and change it if your vehicle frequently sits for extended periods of time without being driven. Sitting without being driven can allow your fuel to break down and can contaminate your fuel tank, which your fuel filter has to work hard against. This means that your filter might need a change before it would normally need one.
2. You're Unsure About Fuel Quality
If you frequently fill up at little-known fuel stations, if you use fuel that has been stored in containers or if you make your own homemade fuel, you'll need to change your filter more often. This is because there is a chance that the fuel is contaminated, and having a fresh, clean diesel fuel filter in your fuel system can help catch these contaminants and keep your fuel system clean.
3. You Drive Your Vehicle in Dirty Places
Do you take your vehicle down dirt paths, in the mud or otherwise in dirty conditions? If so, there is always the chance of dust and mud getting into your fuel system. To be extra careful to ensure that this debris does not contaminate your vehicle's fuel system, changing your diesel fuel filter often is a smart move.
Overall, it is better to change your diesel fuel filter too frequently rather than not frequently enough. They are affordable to change, and if you're handy with tools, you can change it yourself. Otherwise, you will need to have a mechanic who is experienced in working on diesel-powered vehicles to help you, but the charge should still be negligible when you consider that you're preserving your vehicle's fuel system. If any of these things are applicable to your diesel-powered car or truck, consider switching the filter more often, and you're sure not to regret it. Click here for more information.
