In all countries except Europe, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter every 45,000 km or every 3 years (whichever comes first), if it is suspected that the fuel used contains impurities that could clog the filter. If you constantly drive in a dusty atmosphere, the filter may become clogged ahead of time.
To replace the fuel filter, contact a qualified dealer's service station. Because the engine's fuel supply system operates at overpressure, improper or inept handling of the fuel line connections can cause gasoline to splatter and create a fire hazard.
Draining the sludge from the filter (only for vehicles with diesel engines)
If moisture has accumulated in the fuel filter sump, the symbol appears on the multifunction display, which may be accompanied by the message «WATER IN FUEL SYSTEM» («Water in the fuel system»). Contact a service station immediately.
Vehicles for European countries
Draining sediment from the fuel filter should be carried out within the time specified in the maintenance schedule.
It may be difficult to start the engine after the vehicle has been parked for a long time. If there is water left in the fuel filter, when the ignition key is turned to the «ON» (II) you will see a warning symbol on the multifunction display. Difficulty starting the engine may also be the result of air entering the fuel system. In this case, follow the procedure in section «Bleeding the fuel system».