How to Install a Fuel Filter on a 1997 Toyota Camry

The fuel filter in your 1997 Toyota Camry is scheduled by the manufacturer to be replaced every 30,00 miles or 24 months under normal conditions. The fuel filter collects sediments and dirt that may enter the fuel system from the gas pumps during fill up. If not replaced regularly, the filter will become clogged and cause hesitation and bogging during acceleration, and will also put a strain on the fuel pump located in the fuel tank.

Instructions

1

Remove the rear seat bottom by pulling on the plastic release levers on the bottom edge of the seat while pulling up on the seat. Unplug the fuel pump electrical connector located under the seat. Relieve the residual fuel pressure by starting the engine and allowing it to run until it stalls. Turn off and remove the ignition key.

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10 mm wrench. Remove the air filter box and duct by loosening the hose clamp on the duct and removing the 10 mm bolts that secure the air filter box to the engine compartment. Lift the box and duct out of the way to gain access to the fuel filter located under the box below the brake master cylinder.

3

Remove the old filter and bracket assembly. Use a 17 mm socket and ratchet to remove the banjo bolt on top of the filter while holding the filter steady with another 17 mm wrench on the filter housing nut below the fuel line.

4

Lift the front of the Camry, using a floor jack and jack stands, until there is room to access the fuel line on the bottom of the filter. Use a 17 mm line wrench to remove the fuel line from the bottom of the filter. Remove the two 10 mm fuel filter bracket bolts using a socket and ratchet. Remove the filter and bracket assembly from the engine compartment.

5

Loosen the 10 mm pinch bolt on the bracket and slide the old filter out of the bracket. Install the new filter into the bracket. Start the fuel line fitting into the bottom of the filter by hand. Bolt the filter bracket to the engine compartment and reinstall the banjo bolt using new sealing washers supplied with the new filter.

6

Reinstall the air filter box and duct. Reconnect the fuel pump and reinstall the rear seat. Prime the system by turning the ignition key off and on several times. Start the engine. Check for leaks. Remove the jack stand and lower the car to the ground.