GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

If you want to change the diesel engine fuel filter yourself, here's how to do it:

Caution: Diesel fuel is flammable. It could start a fire if something ignites it, and you could be burned. Do not let it get on hot engine parts, and keep matches or other ignition sources away.

First, drain any water from the filter following the procedure for draining water listed previously.

Your vehicle's engine should be off until the end of this procedure.

The fuel filter is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side of the vehicle, or on the driver's side frame rail in front of the fuel tank.

  1. Apply the parking brake.

  2. Object Number: 811823  Size: A3
  3. Unplug the water sensor wire connected to the fuel filter and unscrew the filter element.
  4. Remove the filter element. If there is any dirt on the filter sealing surface, clean it off. Remove and reuse the water sensor float switch located on the bottom of the fuel filter.
  5. Install the new filter element.
  6. Reinstall and tighten the filter container and reconnect the water sensor wire to the filter.
  7. Use the fuel filter priming procedure earlier in this section to prime the fuel filter.
  8. Tighten the air bleed valve by turning it clockwise until hand tight.
  9. Start you engine and let it idle for five minutes. Check your fuel filter and air bleed valve for leaks.