Why are so many fuel filters so expensive?

Posted by admin on Dec 24th

I have been doing maintenance on my motorcycle for years. I’m used to the $2-5 inline fuel filters, which I also had on my first couple cars. But now I’m trying to diagnose a misfire issue on my Honda Civic (97 EX) and the fuel filter is the next thing to check. I was surprised to see that even the cheapest available that are specified for this application are $20. Most brands are closer to $50. What in the world is this filter doing that a $5 filter doesn’t? Can’t be the fuel flow because I’ve seen plenty of gas hog V8s that use simple inline filters, while my gas-sipping Civic needs something special. I also wouldn’t think the filtration is that much different. I mean, it’s fuel, not oil or drinking water. There’s a prefilter in the fuel tank for the really ugly crap, then this one for the fine stuff.

So what is it? Can I just put a general purpose inline filter in place of the ridiculously complicated Civic one?

Filed Under: Water for Gas FAQ
Tagged: Expensive, filters, Fuel, Many

5 Responses to “Why are so many fuel filters so expensive?”

Dec 24th at 12:30 am By: luvinavril07

My Infiniti’s fuel filter costs about $15 at the dealer OEM. It may be that the Civic requires a specialized fuel filter that makes it cost so high. Stick with the OEM. You may save $30 by going cheap, but then if you have a leaking fuel pump or air in your hose because of a crap filter…well yeah you get the idea.

Dec 24th at 1:16 am By: Rosita B

because everythings is overpriced!!! But wait until you price a fuel injector!! LOL!!

Dec 24th at 1:20 am By: LeAnne

I agree with you 100%.
A fuel filter is not rocket science – there’s no need other than marketing and profit for such a wide variety – or for such a ridiculous price tag.

However, keep in mind that the fuel injected vehicles run significantly more fuel pressure than prior carbureted models, and an atomized fuel leak in a fuel injected vehicle is much more prone to an explosion rather than just a fire.

Dec 24th at 2:11 am By: KB

well
half the people dont ever replace them
so they have to get money somehow..

and its really not a lot if you think about it
50 bucks, that will last you 30k

while 30 bucks for an oil change, will last you 3-5k

Dec 24th at 2:24 am By: Sjam2007

haha beacuse everyone has to have them so they jack the price i think mine was only 8$

Reviews

Recommended Products

Recent Comments

Tags

Navigation

Why are so many fuel filters so expensive?