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Where is the fuel filter located on an AU Falcon?

The fuel filter is an inline unit located in the engine bay on the passenger side, along the fuel line from the tank to the engine.


Understanding the location


For most AU Falcons produced from 1998 to 2002, the fuel filter sits along the fuel line inside the engine bay on the passenger side, near the firewall. It is a compact canister that is usually mounted to a bracket or clipped to a frame member and has two hoses connected to it.


Appearance and orientation


The filter is typically a small cylindrical or rectangular canister, made of metal or plastic, with two hose connections and clamps. It is positioned directly along the line from the fuel tank toward the engine, making it relatively easy to spot when you look at the fuel path under the hood.


Variations by model


While the inline fuel filter is common across AU models with the 4.0L inline-six and V8 configurations, the exact mounting point can vary slightly. The general idea remains: follow the fuel line from the tank toward the engine and you will encounter the filter as a distinct inline unit.


How to locate the filter (step-by-step)


Use these steps to locate the filter so you can inspect or replace it if needed.



  1. With the engine off and cool, open the hood and look along the passenger-side area of the engine bay for the fuel line that runs from the rear of the vehicle toward the engine.

  2. Identify a small canister or block along that line with two hose connections and clamps securing the hoses.

  3. Check that one hose goes toward the fuel tank and the other toward the engine’s fuel rail area; this confirms you’ve found the filter.

  4. Note how the filter is mounted (bracket or clip) so you can reinstall it correctly after any service.


Once located, you can inspect for leaks or signs of wear and plan replacement if necessary.


Maintenance tips and safety


Safety first: the fuel system is pressurized and gasoline is flammable. If you replace the filter, relieve fuel pressure, disconnect the battery as a precaution, and use proper clamps and hoses. Ensure you install the correct AU-compatible filter and recheck for leaks after starting the engine. If your AU has a different fuel-pump arrangement or an in-tank filter design, consult the owner's manual or a Ford dealer for the exact procedure.


Summary


The AU Falcon’s fuel filter is typically an inline unit mounted in the engine bay on the passenger side, along the fuel line from the tank to the engine. It’s a small canister with two hose connections secured by clamps, located between the tank and the engine near the firewall. Locating it involves tracing the fuel line from the rear to the front of the engine bay and identifying the distinct inline filter unit, then following safe replacement practices if service is needed.

Where is the fuel filter on an Au Falcon?


The fuel filter is located under the Passenger side of the vehicle, near the chassis rail. it should be quite far back on the line, close to the differential housing.



Where is the fuel pump on the AU Falcon?


Au Falcon fuel pump is located in the boot. Just underneath this cover. Here. There you have it just get a screwdriver to tap in the sides.



What are the symptoms of a clogged fuel filter?


Symptoms of a clogged fuel filter include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, stalling, and poor acceleration. Other signs are decreased fuel economy, engine misfires, and potential fuel pump noise or failure due to the increased strain. A check engine light may also illuminate, though the specific codes are often generic.
 
Common symptoms

  • Difficulty starting: The engine may crank but not start, or it may start and then immediately die. 
  • Rough idling: The engine may vibrate or shake while idling because it's not receiving a consistent flow of fuel. 
  • Stalling: The vehicle may stall, especially when slowing down, at idle, or when under load. 
  • Poor acceleration and power loss: The car may hesitate or feel sluggish when you press the gas pedal, especially when accelerating or climbing hills. 
  • Engine misfires: The engine may sputter or misfire because some cylinders aren't getting enough fuel. 
  • Decreased fuel economy: The engine has to work harder to pull fuel through a clogged filter, burning more gas. 
  • Fuel pump issues: A clogged filter can cause the fuel pump to strain, leading to unusual whining or buzzing noises and potentially premature failure. 
  • Check engine light: The check engine light may come on, and diagnostic codes may indicate a lean fuel mixture or a misfire. 



Where is the fuel filter located?


The fuel filter is typically located either inside the fuel tank as part of the fuel pump assembly or along the fuel line under the vehicle, often near the fuel tank or frame rail. Less commonly, it may be a separate canister in the engine bay. For an exact location on your specific vehicle, consult the owner's manual.
 
Common locations

  • Underneath the vehicle: The filter is often in an inline housing mounted along the frame rail, between the fuel tank and the engine. 
  • Inside the fuel tank: In many modern vehicles, the filter is integrated with the fuel pump and is located inside the fuel tank itself. 
  • In the engine bay: Some vehicles may have a fuel filter mounted under the hood in a canister, though this is less common. 

This video explains how to locate the fuel filter in different vehicles: 1mMakeIt101YouTube · Jun 18, 2024
What to do if you can't find it
  • Consult your owner's manual: The manual will provide the most accurate information on the fuel filter's location for your specific make and model. 
  • Check the fuel line: Follow the fuel line from the tank to see where it goes. The filter will be a component along this line. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.