* Engine damage: Contaminants like rust, dirt, and water can severely damage the fuel injectors, fuel pump, and other sensitive engine components. This can lead to costly repairs or even engine failure.
* Reduced fuel economy: A clogged filter restricts fuel flow, leading to less efficient combustion and reduced gas mileage. While a bypassed filter might initially seem to improve fuel flow, the long-term damage far outweighs any short-term benefit.
* Safety concerns: A severely clogged filter can starve the engine of fuel, leading to stalling, especially at crucial moments.
If you're having fuel delivery problems, the correct approach is to *diagnose the underlying issue*. A clogged fuel filter is a symptom, not the problem itself. Start by checking the filter and replacing it if necessary. If problems persist, seek professional help from a mechanic to identify the root cause. Ignoring the problem and bypassing the filter will likely cause far more extensive and costly damage in the long run.
