Jeep Wrangler: VEHICLE MAINTENANCE / Fuel Filter Replacement — Diesel Engine
NOTE:
Using a fuel filter that does not meet the manufacturer’s
filtration and water separating
requirements can severely impact fuel system
life and reliability. We recommend you use
Mopar® Fuel Filter. Must meet 3 micron rating.
CAUTION!
- Diesel fuel will damage blacktop paving
surfaces. Drain the filter into an appropriate
container.
- Do not prefill the fuel filter when installing a
new fuel filter. There is a possibility debris
could be introduced into the fuel filter
during this action. It is best to install the
filter dry and allow the in-tank lift pump to
prime the fuel system.
- Ensure engine is turned off.
- Remove the fuel filter protective cover to
access the fuel filter assembly.

- Retainers
- Fuel Filter Protective Cover
- Place drain pan under the fuel filter
assembly.
- Open the water drain valve, and let any
accumulated water and fuel drain.
- Close the water drain valve.

Fuel Filter Assembly
-
Water Drain Valve
-
Wipe clean the underside of the filter
housing to prevent contamination from
entering fuel system during service.
-
Remove the fuel filter cap and filter from the
housing using a socket. Rotate counterclockwise
for removal.

-
Fuel Filter Cap
-
Socket Adapter
-
Remove the used fuel filter cartridge from
the cap and dispose of according to your
local regulations.
-
Wipe clean the sealing surfaces of the cap
and housing.
CAUTION!
Take care when handling the new fuel filter to
prevent contamination from entering the fuel
system.
- Lubricate o-ring on the cap with clean
engine oil.
- Install the new fuel filter cartridge onto the
cap.
- Insert the cap and filter into the housing
with clockwise rotation, use a socket to
tighten.
- After engine start, verify the fuel filter cap
does not leak.
The fuel/water separator housing is located
inside the left frame rail in front of the fuel tank.
The best access to this water drain valve is from
under the vehicle...
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system
with the engine running. Engine operation
causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel
spray can cause serious injury or death...
Other information:
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat,
both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your
seat belts.
The starter is allowed to crank for up to
30-second intervals. Waiting a few minutes
between such intervals will protect the starter
from overheating...
NOTE:
Before fully lowering the soft top, the rear
window and rear quarter windows must be
removed.
Remove The Rear Window:
With the swing gate open, remove the rear
window’s plastic retainers from the lower
right and left corners.
Step One
Grab the swing gate bar, rotate it outward
and upward releasing it from both the right
and left retainers...