The 2013 Ford Escape has what Ford calls a “lifetime fuel filter” that’s integrated into the fuel pump and can’t be changed without replacing the pump itself.

The 2013 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a strong engine and good handling but is somewhat bedeviled by reliability issues. If you have a 2013 Escape, preventative maintenance is likely a priority. One of the things that may need to be addressed is your fuel filter—but where is it, and how do you know if it’s at the end of its lifespan?

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Ford Escape insurance costs

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Where is the fuel filter on a 2013 Ford Escape?

One thing that won’t change no matter what internal combustion vehicle you’re looking at is this: the fuel filter is between the fuel tank and the engine. In some vehicles, this filter is a part that can be removed and replaced separately, but in the 2013 Ford Escape, the fuel filter is integrated into the fuel pump and cannot be replaced in and of itself.

As the fuel pump supplies fuel to the engine, it first runs through a filter to remove any debris or impurities. This helps to keep your engine clean and running at its best, making the fuel filter an important part of your car. According to the Ford online forums, owners who have inquired about changing the fuel filter in their 2013 Escape were told by Ford that the fuel filter is a “lifetime” one, and can’t be replaced unless you get a whole new fuel pump.

“Lifetime” is a pretty vague (and potentially lofty) claim—if you drive a car long enough, everything will wear out eventually. But when it comes to the 2013 Escape’s fuel filter, it appears to be in an automotive ride-or-die pact with its buddy, the fuel pump.

MORE:

How to replace power steering fluid for a 2013 Ford Escape

Signs of a clogged fuel filter

Your fuel pump mechanism is a vital component in your car, as it literally supplies the engine with what it needs to make the car go. Here are a few signs that you might have an issue with your fuel filter and/or fuel pump:

Difficulty starting the car

Loud or strange noises from the fuel pump

Sputtering, dying, or stalling while idling or engine misfires

Sluggish acceleration

Strong-smelling or increased exhaust fumes

Check Engine Light turns on

Any of these symptoms can also be a sign of other problems as well, but they all mean that you should get your car checked ASAP.

2013 Ford Escape fuel pump replacement

So if the “lifetime” expectancy of your 2013 Escape fuel filter turns out to be that of your average hamster, then you’ll need to have your entire fuel pump replaced.

The price for a new fuel pump seems to range from $180 to $380. If you’re buying the part yourself, make sure you do your research and get the correct one, as there are a lot of options out there. An OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part will likely have to be purchased at a Ford dealership, but stores like

O’Reilly Auto Parts

Auto Zone

should have plenty of aftermarket options.

If you’re confident in your car repair abilities, you might be able to do a

fuel pump replacement

yourself. But if not, expect to pay around $85 to $125 per hour for labor costs with a mechanic. All in all, getting a new fuel pump can cost anywhere from $180 to $500, depending on the price of the part and if you do the work yourself.

MORE:

Are Fords expensive to maintain?

How to save on Ford insurance costs

Maintenance costs with a used car can be a bit of a headache, and it’s always nice if you can cut costs elsewhere in your automotive budget. Well, great news—if you shop for your car insurance with the top-rated

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