Could a dirty fuel filter be whats causing my car to stall?

Question

I have a 96' Ford Escort. Its been having a problem that any time I'm not using that gas, either waiting at a light or just coasting down a road, it will cut out on me. I then have to re-start the car and hope that no one hits me in the process and it's a real pain in the butt. Anyhow, to try and solve the problem I've gotten a new air filter and an oil change. But it's still stalling on me. I've been told it might be the fuel filter by my friend but I don't know how much truth there is to that. Could it be the fuel filter? And if so how much does it cost to replace?

Answer 1

One of the biggest driveability problems the escorts had was that the fuel pump ground was at the negative terminal on the battery.When corroded or poorly connected at the ground terminal,at idle their was just enough resistance to cause the fuel pump to slow or stop and the engine would stall.Make sure that the battery terminals are clean and properly tightened and it may cure the problem.

Answer 2

It absolutely could be the fuel filter.

Answer 3

Check the rubber hose for the PCV valve.  It often develops a a crack or hole where it plugs into the intake manifold/throttle body.  It's a common problem on Escorts.

Answer 4

It could be a dirty fuel filter, If it hasn't been changed in the past year I would go ahead and change it. The injectors could be starving for fuel under their pressure demand. A filter from a parts store isn't more than ten bucks and it can be changed for a reasonably low price. Good luck. If the car idles rough as well it could be a dirty IAC valve.

Answer 5

yep, it sure can. if the gas filter is clogging up, it will shut your car down.

Answer 6

yes it could be something as simple as a fuel filter causing that too happen,have a computer scan done on it at auto zone to see if you have any trouble codes on it  if you dont try changing the filter they cost about 15 bucks and that may solve your problem with it,sometimes its the simplest things that cause the biggest problems,good luck.

Answer 7

if it was the fuel filter, you'd have more problems under accelleration than idling or coasting, because it obviously takes more gas to accell than to idle. (stopped up filter can't flow enough fuel).  Sounds more like a stuck EGR valve or IAC.  This problem requires a proper diagnoses, because there can be a number of things that can cause this problem.  Good thing is, the diagnoses should not be that hard.  

Answer 8

yea, and you probaby need a tune up... plugs, cap, rotor and fuel filter . .  total if you know someone who can do all these for you $50 bucks

Answer 9

typically, if you have a failing fuel filter, you will notice a problem over an rpm range under a load, not at idle. i would look some where else. it might be time for a major tune up( plugs and wires cap and rotor if your car is equipped  with em.) if you do not have a check engine light on, that eliminates so many of the other possibilities.