Where is the fuel filter on a 2004 Dodge?
There isn’t a single location that applies to every 2004 Dodge. Depending on the model and engine, the fuel filter is either inside the fuel tank as part of the pump assembly, or it is an inline filter mounted on the fuel line along the frame rail.
Common configurations for 2004 Dodge vehicles
The two main configurations you’re likely to encounter are described below. This helps you know what to look for when you’re tracing the fuel line or planning a filter replacement.
- In-tank fuel pump with integrated filter: The filter is located inside the fuel tank and is not typically serviceable as a separate part. If you need to replace it, you usually replace the entire fuel pump assembly. This setup is common on many Dodge passenger cars from that era.
- External inline fuel filter on the frame rail: A small cylindrical canister filter can be mounted on the frame rail, usually along the driver’s side, between the fuel tank and the engine. It’s accessible from underneath the vehicle and requires disconnecting fuel lines to replace.
To confirm the exact arrangement for your specific 2004 Dodge, check the owner's manual or the service manual for your model, or trace the fuel line from the tank forward to see whether there is a separate filter canister or if the line goes directly to the engine with no external filter.
Model-specific notes
Dodge Ram pickups and Durango (2004)
These larger vehicles most often use an external inline fuel filter mounted on the frame rail, typically on the driver’s side between the fuel tank and the engine. You’ll usually find it along the underbody frame line, sometimes near the front wheel well. If you don’t see a canister along the frame, your model may use an in-tank filter instead, so consult the manual or trace the line from the tank forward.
Caravan, Grand Caravan, Neon, Stratus, and other passenger vehicles (2004)
Many Dodge passenger cars from this era employ an in-tank fuel pump with the built-in filter, meaning there isn’t a separate serviceable external filter under the car. In these models, the filter is not easily replaceable as a standalone part, and replacement typically involves removing the fuel pump assembly from the tank. If you’re unsure, check the service manual for your exact model and engine.
How to locate the filter on your specific vehicle
The quickest way to confirm is to physically inspect the fuel line from the tank toward the engine. Look for:
- A small cylindrical filter canister mounted along the frame rail (driver’s side is common).
- A filter inside the fuel tank access panel or integrated with the fuel pump module (in-tank).
- Any service notes in the manual about inline filtering or pump replacement procedures.
Before attempting any work on the fuel system, ensure the ignition is off, disconnect the negative battery terminal, and relieve fuel pressure safely. If you’re not confident doing this yourself, consult a qualified mechanic.
Summary
For 2004 Dodges, the fuel-filter arrangement splits mainly into two paths: an in-tank filter built into the fuel pump assembly, common on many passenger cars, and an inline canister filter mounted on the frame rail, more typical for certain trucks and SUVs. To be certain about your exact model and engine, check the owner’s manual or service manual, or visually trace the fuel line from the tank to the engine to locate the filter configuration.
Where is the fuel filter located?
The fuel filter is typically located along the fuel line underneath the vehicle, often near the fuel tank or along the frame rail. However, in some modern vehicles, it is integrated inside the fuel tank and is not a separate, serviceable part. To find the exact location, it is best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual.
You can watch this video to see the location of a fuel filter under the car: 58sVideojugYouTube · Jun 25, 2012
Common locations
- Underneath the vehicle: Look for a cylindrical canister along the main fuel line that runs from the fuel tank to the engine.
- Along the frame rail: This is a common location, often on the driver's side of the vehicle.
- Inside the fuel tank: Some newer cars have a fuel filter that is part of the fuel pump assembly inside the gas tank. This is often a non-serviceable part, meaning it is replaced only when the fuel pump is changed.
- Under the hood: In some cases, the fuel filter may be located in the engine compartment within the fuel line.
This video shows how to find a fuel filter in your car: 58sScotty KilmerYouTube · Mar 12, 2013
Tips for finding your fuel filter
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to find the exact location for your specific make and model.
- Trace the fuel line: Follow the metal or rubber fuel line that runs from the fuel tank toward the engine. The filter will be inline somewhere along this path.
- Look for a canister: The filter is often housed in a small, metal or plastic canister with fuel lines connected to both the inlet and outlet sides.
You can watch this video to learn how to change a fuel filter: 1mMakeIt101YouTube · Jun 18, 2024
Where is the fuel filter located on a 2004 Dodge Ram?
The 2004 Dodge Ram fuel filter location depends on whether it's a gasoline or diesel model. On a gasoline engine, the filter is typically in the fuel pump assembly inside the fuel tank. On a diesel (like the Cummins), the main filter is in a canister, often located on the driver's side frame rail near the fuel tank, and there can also be a secondary fuel filter under the hood.
This video shows the location of the fuel filter on a 2004 Dodge Ram: 44sBad MattYouTube · Nov 25, 2020
Gasoline models
- Location: The fuel filter is part of the fuel pump assembly, which is located inside the fuel tank.
- Identification: To find it, start at the fuel tank and follow the fuel lines towards the engine; if you don't see an external filter, it is integrated into the fuel pump assembly within the tank.
This video shows the location of the fuel pump assembly in a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500: 57sSteven’s DIY Auto RepairYouTube · Sep 14, 2022
Diesel models
- Primary filter: Look for a canister on the driver's side frame rail, near the fuel tank.
- Secondary filter (on some models): A secondary filter can be located under the hood, often near the engine oil filter.
- Identification: Follow the fuel lines from the tank to the engine. The main filter will be the large canister, and a secondary one might be under the hood as well.
This video shows how to replace the fuel filter on a 2003-2007 Dodge Ram 5.9L Cummins diesel: 59sThoroughbred DieselYouTube · Feb 1, 2019
What are the symptoms of a failing fuel filter?
Symptoms of a bad fuel filter include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and the check engine light coming on. A clogged filter restricts fuel flow, causing the engine to run poorly and potentially leading to further damage if not addressed.
Performance issues
- Difficulty starting: The engine may crank but not start, or it may take longer to turn over because not enough fuel is reaching it.
- Engine stalling: The vehicle may stall, especially when slowing down, idling, or under heavy load, due to insufficient fuel.
- Rough idling or misfires: The engine may run unevenly, causing shaking at idle, or experience misfires, which can lead to a loss of power.
- Hesitation and poor acceleration: The car may hesitate, stumble, or feel sluggish when you press the gas pedal, especially when accelerating or climbing a hill.
- Loss of power: The vehicle may feel underpowered, particularly at high speeds or when carrying a heavy load.
- Poor fuel economy: The engine works harder to pull fuel through a clogged filter, which can lead to decreased mileage.
Other indicators
- Check Engine Light: The light may come on, often with codes related to a "lean condition," which means the engine is getting too much air and not enough fuel.
- Fuel pump noise: The fuel pump may make unusual or loud noises as it works harder to push fuel through a clogged filter.
- Fuel odor: A strong fuel smell can indicate a leak or that the engine is burning fuel inefficiently.
Where is the fuel pump relay on a 2004 Dodge Ram?
You want to make sure that as the relay. And not the fuse for the fuel pump. So locate the fuel pump relay. You're going to go ahead and locate the relay it is number 58.. And come into here.
