Instructions for Changing the Fuel Filter on a 97 Buick LeSabre

The price of fuel is not getting any cheaper, so it is important to squeeze as many miles as you can out of each fill-up in your 1997 Buick LeSabre. A clogged fuel filter can cause vehicle starting or running issues, and poor fuel economy. It can also damage the fuel pump, which is not an easy or inexpensive repair. The car is equipped with an in-line fuel filter, located on the frame rail just forward from the driver-side rear wheel.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood on the LeSabre, and install a memory saver on the vehicle using the manufacturer's instructions. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery, and tuck the battery cable down behind the battery, so that there is no chance of accidental contact during this procedure.

2

Remove the cap from the Schrader valve located on the fuel rail. It resembles a tire valve stem cap. Wrap a screwdriver in a rag, and depress the valve stem to release the fuel pressure from the LeSabre. Use the excess rag fabric to catch any fuel that is spilled. Install the Schrader valve cap back on the fuel rail.

3

Raise the rear of the car with a floor jack. Place jack stands underneath the rear axle. Place the drain pan beneath the fuel filter. Spray the threaded end of the fuel filter thoroughly with aerosol penetrant. Allow the penetrating spray to set for at least 15 minutes.

4

Place a box-end wrench on the hex head end of the fuel filter. Place a second box-end wrench on the fuel line. Rotate the fuel line counterclockwise while holding the backup box-end wrench on the fuel filter still. Turn the fuel line fitting until the line is separated from the fuel filter.

5

Squeeze the quick-disconnect fitting on the opposite end of the fuel filter. Pull the fuel line fitting off of the filter. Loosen the fuel filter band strap, then remove the filter from the strap. Place the old fuel filter in the drain pan. Slide the new filter in the filter strap and tighten the strap until it is snug.

6

Install the quick disconnect fitting onto the fuel filter, and press it on the filter until it clicks and locks into place. Tug the fitting away from the filter to make sure the connection is tight. Insert the threaded filter end on the filter, and start threading the fitting a couple of turns by hand. Insert the back-up box-end wrench on the fuel filter hex end. Tighten the fitting to 22 foot-pounds using a crowfoot adapter on a torque wrench.

7

Lower the vehicle to the ground. Install the negative battery cable on the LeSabre, and tighten the cable end until it is snug. Remove the memory saver from the car. Turn the ignition key to the accessories position, and then back to the off position. Visually inspect the fuel line fittings to make sure they are not leaking.

8

Turn the key to accessories then back off two more times, to prime the fuel rail and injectors with fresh fuel. Start the Buick, and inspect the fuel line fittings with the engine running. Shut the engine down if you see any sign of a drip or leak. Double check the plastic lock clip on the fuel filter quick-disconnect end if the quick-disconnect end is leaking, the clip needs to be replaced by simply pulling it off and installing new one.