Fuel filter change
I am going to change the fuel filter on my daughter’s VW Golf MKVI 1.6 TDI as she has done 50,000 miles. I have been doing a little research into how to change the filter without VAG-COM equipment. On Youtube, there’s a video showing the lid of the fuel filter being removed and suspended from the bonnet so that the fuel does not drain out of the supply pipe to the pump, thus minimising the amount of air going into the pump. Once the new filter has been fitted, the bowl is topped up with fresh diesel to the max and the lid is quickly popped onto the filter assembly. Have you any experience of this procedure?
John Hynd
I have replaced a fair few Volkswagen Golf fuel filters and I am pleased to say that the job is probably easier than the official VW literature would have you believe. VW have used a few different variations on the fuel filter and housing, but I believe the one in your daughter’s vehicle should be the one that uses five securing screws.
Your description of the process is quite accurate, but I would add a couple of points. The first is that the lid of the fuel filter housing may need to be prised off using a small screwdriver. If you look at the lid, you will see a small area with a raised lip that allows a screwdriver to be slid in and rotated to lift the lid. Once off, the lid will drip diesel, so I normally sit it on a small dish. As long as this is raised up a little, it will be sufficient.
When the new filter and seal are fitted, topping up the canister with fresh diesel will certainly help prevent any air locks, but you needn’t worry about having to slap the lid down quickly. It is more important to ensure that it is put on squarely and pushed down into position correctly.
The VW literature mentions using VAG-COM for only one reason: to drive the in-tank fuel pump. This can be simulated by switching the ignition on and off in 30-second intervals. Every time the ignition is first switched on, it will power the pump for a few seconds. Normally half a dozen turns off and on will be sufficient. Once the engine is started up, leave it running for a few minutes and check the lid of the housing for any leaks. You may then also want to reset the service indicator. I can guide you through this, but I will need to know the year of the vehicle and whether or not it has a multifunction display.