Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Fuel System Cleaning: Notes
Refer to Gasoline/Gasoline Vapors Warning .
The following procedure covers the disassembly and the inspection of the complete fuel supply system. If the fuel system is contaminated, the fuel system can be cleaned. You can usually determine the extent of the fuel system contamination during the disassembly.
- Remove the fuel module assemblies. Refer to Fuel Tank Fuel Pump Module Replacement - Right Side , and Fuel Level Sensor Replacement - Left Side .
- Locate the tank in a suitable work area away from any heat, any flame, or any other source of ignition.
- Perform the following procedures:
- Inspect the fuel sender strainer. Replace the primary fuel tank module if the strainer is contaminated.
- Inspect the secondary fuel tank module for debris. Clean the secondary fuel tank module if debris is found.
- Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the transfer tube.
WARNING:Wear safety glasses when using compressed air, as flying dirt particles may cause eye injury.
- Flush the fuel tank with running hot water for at least five minutes. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening. Rock the tank in order to ensure that the removal of the water from the tank is complete.
- Refer to Metal Collar Quick Connect Fitting Service in order to disconnect the following quick connect fittings from the fuel rail:
- The feed hose/pipe
- The return hose/pipe
- Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the fuel lines in the opposite direction from the normal fuel flow.
- Remove the fuel injectors and fuel rail.
- Clean and inspect the fuel injectors and fuel rail.
When flushing the fuel tank, handle the fuel and water mixture as a hazardous material. Handle the fuel and water in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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