1. Difficulty Starting: If the fuel filter is clogged, it may restrict fuel flow to the engine, making it difficult to start or causing delayed engine starts.
2. Engine Stalling or Hesitation: A clogged fuel filter can lead to fuel starvation, causing the engine to stall or hesitate while driving. This issue is more noticeable during acceleration or when the vehicle is under load.
3. Loss of Power: As the fuel filter becomes more obstructed, it can limit the amount of fuel reaching the engine, resulting in reduced power and acceleration.
4. Rough Idling: A partially clogged fuel filter can lead to irregular idle, where the engine speed fluctuates or runs rough.
5. Fuel Pressure Problems: A clogged fuel filter can cause low fuel pressure, which can be confirmed by checking the fuel pressure using an appropriate gauge.
6. Check Engine Light: In some cases, a clogged fuel filter may trigger the Check Engine Light to illuminate. However, this symptom may not always be related to the fuel filter specifically.
7. Reduced Fuel Economy: A clogged fuel filter can affect fuel efficiency as the engine may not be receiving the optimal fuel supply.
8. Stumbling or Surging: If the filter is partially blocked but still allows fuel to pass through intermittently, it can cause surging or stumbling as the fuel supply becomes restricted and releases.
9. Fuel Pump Noise: In severe cases, a severely clogged fuel filter can cause excessive strain on the fuel pump, leading to increased noise or even premature pump failure.
If you suspect that the fuel filter on your 1996 Toyota Camry may be clogged, it's recommended to inspect and replace it according to the vehicle's recommended maintenance schedule.
