tobiashimmel2
Focus fuel filter heater fault
Summary of the thread
A 2014 Ford Focus diesel was experiencing issues with a fuel filter heater fault, leading to poor engine performance, high fuel consumption, and rough idling. The problem was suspected to be related to the fuel filter heater circuit, particularly affecting cold starts. The solution involved checking the electrical integrity of the heater element, which revealed a faulty cable/plug connection. Repairing this connection resolved the issue, restoring the vehicle's performance.
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4 comment(s)
tobiashimmel2 (community.author)
Cold starts are definitely a pain, she's a right pig to get going and sometimes stalls out completely. As for diagnostics, I've mainly focused on checking the fuel lines for blockages and verifying the fuel pump's operation. I haven't specifically looked at the fuel filter heater itself. What exactly should I be checking in that area?
williamfox8
Given the difficulty with cold starts, the fuel filter heater assembly is highly suspect. Given the diagnostic effort undertaken, and the details of the failure mode, I suggest you have the electrical integrity of the heater element tested. This would ideally involve checking the relevant cabling and connector for continuity and/or shorts. I suggest you take it to a workshop.
tobiashimmel2 (community.author)
I took it to the workshop, and you were spot on. Turns out it was a dodgy cable/plug connection to the fuel filter heater, like you said. They cleaned it up and replaced the damaged section. Cost me 95€, but she's running like a dream now. Appreciate the help!
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FORD
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FOCUS
williamfox8
The symptoms you describe do suggest a fault within the fuel system, specifically related to the fuel filter heater circuit. Have you observed any difficulty starting the engine, particularly in colder ambient temperatures? Could you describe the diagnostic steps you have already undertaken?