I was wondering if any of you guys have ever replaced the fuel filter on your 99+ Protege. I notice in some of the service manuals it says it is in the fuel tank. The last time I had a Mazda service done, the dealership acted like it really did not need to be replaced. I someone could give me some information on this that would be great.

Thanks for help.

 

correct me if I'm wrong,but I'm almost positive our fuel filter is attached to the firewall inside the engine bay.....the pump is in the tank

 

The 99+ proteges do not have fuel filters. It uses a bag filter inside of your tank connected to the pump, you can replace this if you like but it is not neccesary unless someone pours something in your tank. Dont get me wrong it is a filter but not the usual you are thinking about.

 

Boostedmp5 is right, it's in the tank. You can replace it if you want, but I've talked to several experienced Mazda techs and they've all said it's really not necessary unless it causes some other problem, which the ECU will detect and turn on the "Check Engine" light. Basically, it's built to last a LONG time.

The thing on the firewall is probably the charcoal canister for the evap emissions system.

 

I can't believe that there isn't a fuel filter in the car. The part in the tank (usually called a sock) isn't that useful at catching anything smaller than loose change!
There has to be a filter somewhere...if not I'd be adding one. You'd be amazed what can be found in the bottom of a fuel tank.
Also, ever cut open a used fuel filter? There can be some damaging stuff in there (enough to cut fuel supply!) Not good when on Nawz

 

I didn't notice a filter in the usual import mounting location (firewall) but did notice a fuel filter replacement interval in the user manual. Haven't taken a close look underneath to verify yet. Since this is a returnless system, the fuel volume being picked up at the pump is a lot lower than a normal return/regulated system. Maybe Mazda felt the sock would be enough...

 

I called the parts department at my local Mazda dealer. After being put on hold for a long time, the rep came back on and said there is a filter, but it looks like it's inside the tank and he didn't see an interval on the service schedule. He also said the filter is $35! I asked him about a '99 Protege ES... he said the '98 and before show a regular fuel filter you typically see, but the '99 and up is this in-tank filter that apparently doesn't need changing very often. In fact, he said they don't stock them and have never ordered one!

-Jerry