Question: How to change fuel filter

[1pt8t]

Hi all:

I'm a newbie and just got a 2000 1.8T Beetle. I want to change the fuel filter and have the filter from VW. I got the fuel filter off the rail but was not able to disconnect the plastic fuel lines. Is there a trick? Do I need a tool?

Can someone help? I tried search but didn't find what I was looking for.

Thanks a million.
1pt8t

[kcfoxie]

Pull really hard. It does come off. Be prepared to be sprayed. It's a tight space, my friend got it off with his hands and/or pliars. It clips onto the lump on either side of the stems on the filter itself.

[Oyveychris]

Ummmm. I wouldn't pull too hard, the lines are plastic and tend to get brittle...The clamps that hold the filter on are squeeze clamps, use vice grips and light to moderate pressure to release the clamp, then slide the line off...Get ready to stink like gas too...

[1pt8t]

thanks guys! after scouring the net more, i finally found a picture of a guy doing a Jetta fuel filter. As it turns out, there is a button you push on the end of the connector.

Once i figured that out, the install from start to end took 15 minutes.

thanks again.
1pt8t

[Taters Toy]

Anyone know where its located? I have ordered a repair manual because the part store in town doesn't have a manual for my NB. I want to do this right away if possible.

[paultakeda]

Follow the fuel line back towards the tank, it's near the tank. This writeup is for a VR6 Jetta but you get the idea.

[1pt8t]

On the Passenger side, right in front of the back tire. (look up from there)

1pt8t

[IgottaBug!]

Changed mine tonight and it was a PITA! I read a how to on the old forums and thought that I could get it done in at least 30 minutes, but my big hands cramp up in tight places. Now I know why I didn't become a mechanic!

[Taters Toy]

Originally Posted by paultakeda

Follow the fuel line back towards the tank, it's near the tank. This writeup is for a VR6 Jetta but you get the idea.

Just a quick note to anyone who is changing thier fuel filter. This link is SUPERB!!!! The biggest key is to be sure and press the clips on the line where it connects to the fuel filter. I didn't on the first one, but the second one just slipped right off with a little tug. Follow the instructions just as described and you can literally have it changed in about 20-30 minutes...including prep time.

[mezonesxbox]

Do you need to have the tank totally empty or does the car have a fuel regulator and all the fuel that is sprayed is just remainders from the fuel lines and not the tank draining itself empty?

[1pt8t]

You don't need the tank to be empty, it is just the remainder from the line. Good luck!

1pt8t

[Anaconda]

What's the recommended mileage to replace the fuel filter?