How to Repair a Fuel Line

While automakers and mechanics tend to be very careful with fuel-related components, fuel lines can sometimes become damaged or leak due to improper manipulation or friction with metal components in the vehicle. In the case of a leak or damage the fuel line should be replaced entirely, as patching or adding fittings can be ineffective and change the length or flexibility of the line. Fortunately, however, replacing a damaged fuel line is relatively simple and requires only basic automotive experience.

Safety glasses and gloves
New fuel line
Replacement fittings
Wrench
Screw driver
Drip pans
Legal fuel can
Jack for low vehicles
Jack stands if needed

Instructions

- 1
  Raise the vehicle with the jack if your vehicle sits too low, to get a good view of the fuel line, located on the underside. Place jack stands underneath the vehicle if there is not enough ground clearance to work underneath the car. Ensure the parking brake is on. Review your car's owner's manual for the exact location of the fuel line for your vehicle model if it is not easily found.
- 2
  Put on protective eyewear and gloves and position drip pans under the fuel line.
- 3
  Using a wrench, turn counterclockwise to remove the female fitting from the male fittings on both ends of the fuel line.
- 4
  Use the screwdriver to loosen any mounting clamps holding the fuel line in place. As you loosen the fuel line, be sure to avoid any fuel drips outside of the drip pan.
- 5
  Remove the fuel line and allow any remaining fuel to drain into the drip pan.
- 6
  Insert the new fuel line, making sure to follow the path established by the mounting clamps. The fuel line should be specifically shaped to your make and model to avoid friction damage.
- 7
  Tighten mounting clamps with the screwdriver and adjust the fittings with the wrench. Be sure not to tighten the fittings too much, but leave about 1/16 of an inch on either side to allow the line to seal correctly.
- 8
  Clean and dispose of all materials appropriately.

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