The fuel you get from the gas station is filtered, but some dirt passes through the filtering process at the oil refinery. Kia and most automakers have realized that this dirt clogs the fuel injectors and causes major drivability issues. To combat this problem, fuel filters have been incorporated into the system, which require periodic replacement to ensure that the fuel system flows properly and that the engine receives a sufficient amount of gasoline. Replacing the fuel filter in the Kia Sorento is a quick, easy task and only requires the use of basic tools.
Open the hood and secure it so it stays open.
Open the fuse box cover under the hood and locate the fuel pump relay. You can find it by reading the figure under the fuse box cover.
Remove the pump relay by pulling it upwards with your fingers.
Crank the engine for about 5 seconds and repeat three times. The engine will not start, because the fuel pump relay is removed and starts by itself. The purpose of this is to relieve pressure in the fuel system so that you can remove the fuel filter without dangerously spraying fuel.
Locate the fuel filter on the passenger side of the engine compartment. It should be black and cylindrical, with two fuel hoses attached to it.
Loosen the two hose clamps with a screwdriver and pull the hoses out.
Unscrew the fuel filter holder with a screwdriver and remove it.
Install a new fuel filter in the holder and tighten the clamp with a screwdriver.
Connect the two fuel hoses to the new fuel filter and tighten the hose clamps with a screwdriver.
Replace the fuel pump relay.
Start the Kia Sorento and make sure there are no leaks. It may take several pumps to get the fuel through the system and start the car.
Tips
Fuel lines can be difficult to remove from the old fuel filter. If they are difficult to remove, use pliers to grab a fuel line where it connects to the filter and twist it from side to side until it comes free.
Warnings
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from injury.