The average cost to replace a fuel filter is $103—parts cost an average of $15, while labor costs around $88. But remember, the exact cost to replace your filter varies based on your vehicle's make and model.

How long does it take to replace a fuel filter? A certified mechanic can replace your fluid filter in about 0.7 hours hours. It’s a process that involves lifting the vehicle, depressurizing the fuel system, and replacing the filter, so it can take time. But first, a mechanic will inspect your fuel filter to determine if it’s a problem. If it is, they will do a full replacement.

Here’s an overview of the fuel filter replacement costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 23, 2024	Ellen, 24 Magnolia, TX	Genesis G70	$75	$14	$61	0.5 Hours
April 21, 2024	Timothy, 27 Charleston, SC	Buick Encore	$80	$14	$65	0.5 Hours
April 18, 2024	Christina, 33 Dublin, CA	Volvo V40	$84	$14	$70	0.5 Hours
April 17, 2024	Marguerite, 34 Oakland, CA	Smart Fortwo	$76	$14	$62	0.5 Hours
April 14, 2024	Eva, 40 Waco, TX	Pontiac Montana	$70	$14	$56	0.5 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for a fuel filter replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Your vehicle’s fuel filter is a single part, so when it becomes clogged and needs replacing, it’s generally the only part you’ll need to buy. But if you’re planning to do a filter change yourself, you’ll also need a handful of tools:

Drain pan

Fire extinguisher

Water source

Needle-nose pliers

Safety glasses

Slot screwdriver

Vehicle ramps (if the fuel filter is mounted underneath the vehicle)

Luckily, replacing your fuel filter won’t break the bank. The average cost for a replacement fuel filter is between $13.90 and $16.99.

If your vehicle is still under warranty, replacement costs may be covered. If you do need to purchase a fuel filter for your replacement, we recommend going to Yyour car at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. Three brands we recommend are WIX, Fram, and ACDelco. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Are all fuel filters the same size?

Fuel filters come in many shapes and sizes; you’ll need to buy one specific to your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual for detailed dimensions to ensure you’re getting a filter that’s compatible with your vehicle.

Should I buy an OEM or aftermarket fuel filter?

If you want to

save on car expenses

, opting for an aftermarket fuel filter might seem more economical, but it’s generally not. OEM fuel filters are built to your car’s specifications, so the fitment is correct to prevent leaks. OEM filters are also usually manufactured with thicker and more durable material—they’re porous enough to allow fuel through but prevent impurities from entering and have deep, tightly spaced pleats to maximize filtering capacity and avoid clogging.

The quality and performance of your fuel filter can significantly influence the lifespan of your engine and equipment, its reliability, and efficiency, and a poor-quality, cheap filter will compromise all the above.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my fuel filter replaced?

Dirt is the primary enemy of your engine's fuel system, and maintaining a clean fuel filter is the best way to ensure dependable, trouble-free performance from your vehicle. If you’re not car-savvy, changing a dirty fuel filter might seem daunting. Luckily, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

makes things easy by letting you compare repair service rates from over 2,500 reputable auto shops nationwide in seconds.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from repair shops using their actual hourly labor rate. You can also find out if you need to budget for diagnostic fees and read actual reviews from real customers to help you choose the best service.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare repair costs in your area.

156 Reviews

Otwell's Auto and Tire Care

7304 Indiana Ave # 1, Riverside, CA

Fuel Filter Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$131

(Parts - $15, Labor - $116)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$125

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (951) 688-2141

162 Reviews

Wrench Inc. - ELP

Fuel Filter Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$146

(Parts - $15, Labor - $131)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry

134 Reviews

Just Tires - Garden Grove

14040 Brookhurst St, Huntington, CA

Fuel Filter Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$160

(Parts - $15, Labor - $145)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$90

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (714) 530-3200

115 Reviews

University Tire & Auto Service

2908 Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Fuel Filter Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$173

(Parts - $15, Labor - $158)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$180

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (323) 733-1236

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my fluid filter?

If your fuel filter is clogged or leaking, you will need to get it replaced. Here are the basic steps a mechanic will take for a fuel filter replacement:

The mechanic will raise the vehicle on jacks to access the fuel pump and filter.

Before the repair, the fuel system must be depressurized, allowing for a controlled release of pressure from the fuel line and preventing a gas spray.

Remove the in-and-out connectors from the filter and then detach the old filter.

The mechanic will install the new part, applying oil to the O-rings to ensure a smooth reinstallation.

With the engine running, the mechanic will confirm that no leaks are coming from the fuel system.

What happens if I don’t replace my fuel filter?

The fuel filter’s job is to ensure clean fuel is delivered to the fuel injectors from the gas tank and to prevent contaminants and impurities from entering the car’s engine. If you don’t replace a leaking or clogged filter, it can lead to several issues, including:

Engine misfiring

Idling problems

Stalling

Difficulty starting (or your engine won’t start) due to impaired flow of fuel

Check engine light is on

Sputtering during acceleration

What is a fuel filter?

A fuel filter is an important piece of the fuel system that protects your engine from debris. It screens dirt and debris coming from the fuel tank, preventing them from entering the vehicle’s engine and causing damage. Small particles and debris entering the engine cause unnecessary wear and tear, damaging the entire system. A clogged fuel filter can also reduce the amount of fuel that reaches your engine—and without enough fuel, your vehicle won’t function properly.

The fuel injection systems of most newer vehicles have limited tolerance and are easily clogged, so any contamination from the fuel can be problematic—that’s why it’s crucial to replace your fuel filter regularly.

There are two main types of filters: plastic/metal or a cartridge with a replaceable filter. Both work the same way to filter out contaminants as they pass through. Regardless of which you have, the filters are meant to be replaced with a new fuel filter, not serviced.

How do I know if my fuel filter needs replacing?

The most common symptoms that indicate a clogged or bad fuel filter include:

Poor engine performance

Hard starting

Stalling

Random engine misfire or rough idle

Fuel system part failures

If you’re following a regular

maintenance schedule

, have your mechanic check your fuel filter when they perform a service.

How often should you change your fuel filter?

Your car’s manufacturer specifications should outline how often you should change your fuel filter. In general, it’s recommended to change your car’s fuel filter every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or through construction areas with large amounts of dust and debris, you may need to change your fuel filter more often.

Can I replace the fuel filter myself?

If you’re in for a simple DIY project and know your way around a car, replacing your fuel filter is an easy task that can be done relatively quickly. But if you’re not confident in your automotive DIY skills, call your local auto body shop and leave the fuel filter replacement to a professional.

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FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a fuel filter?

The average cost to replace a fuel filter is between $50 and $175 for most cars to do the work at an auto repair shop. But if you’re handy and can do it yourself, you can order the required parts and do the replacement for between $10 and $70.

Does it take a long time to change a fuel filter?

Depending on where the fuel filter is located in your car, replacing it can take about 10 to 20 minutes if you have it done at a mechanic or your dealership. If you’re doing the job yourself, it may take slightly longer.

How many miles does a fuel filter last?

Changing your fuel filter every 20,000 to 30,000 miles was recommended, but with fuel improvements and new vehicles, the fuel filter should be replaced about every 60,000 miles. However, check your owner’s manual to confirm how often your filter should be replaced.

As a general rule of thumb, have your filter checked at your annual service. That way, you can have it replaced when dirt and debris start to build up and avoid bigger problems down the road.

Will the check engine light come on for the fuel filter?

A clogged fuel filter can lead to low fuel pressure that causes lean fuel conditions and an engine misfire. Not changing your filter can result in poor fuel mileage and rough idling and may cause the check engine light to come on.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.