Just a quick page detailing how to change out the fuel filter. These instructions were written based upon the system in a 2000 Impreza RS, but it will be very similar for virtually all Subarus. This is a very easy job- 20 minutes or less! If you should have any questions or comments, please feel free to email me and ask.
It is best to let your car sit for an hour or two (or overnight) before starting, as this will depressurize the fuel system and make things a bit less messy. The fuel filter will be located next to your driver side strut tower, just in front of your brake booster/master cylinder if you are facing the engine bay. It will be hard to miss, but may be silver or black in color- there will be two black fuel lines coming out of it, with two silver hose clamps on it. Loosen these clamps with a phillips screwdriver, and push them back approximately 3 inches from where they currently are. Pull the two black fuel lines off- a twisting motion or hose pliers will greatly help this, as it is often a very a tough job if the filter has been on the car for some time.
Once you have the two fuel lines off, open the clamp holding the fuel filter to the strut tower. This will open much like the band of a man's dress watch. Pull the old filter out, and remove the rubber bootie around it if one exists. Dispose of the old filter where you would dispose of old oil filters.
Little trick I picked up- if you coat the areas highlighted in red with white lithium grease (pay careful attention to keep the grease only in the red areas and not on the tips of the "barbs" as it will get the grease in your filter or in your fuel system) on the new filter (part number 42072PA010 by the way) it will be worlds easier to remove the filter next time.
Replace the bootie removed in step two. Some people would ask if this bootie is neccessary, and for the peace of mind of not having the fuel filter rattling around, I think it is. They are more expensive than they should be, but you'll only ever need to buy one. They are readily available at Subaru dealerships, and the part number is 42031AA040.
Finish up by placing the new filter in the holder, locking it in place, and pushing the hoses back over the barbs. Pay close attention to make sure the hose coming out of the firewall goes in the barb marked "in" and the one running to the fuel rails is on the barb marked "out" as shown above. Finish up by replacing and tightening the hose clamps. The clamps should be snug, but not overtight. Make sure you place the clamps in the same area as you greased, between the two "bumps" on the barbs.
Standard Disclaimer: Modification of your car involves risks and may void your warranty. I can not be held responsible for the modifications you consciously decide to undertake nor for the results of doing so.
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