Problems with the fuel system of your car are some of the most common problems for drivers. Quite often regular maintenance and preparation can help to avoid a problem occurring. To help provide information we have compiled a short guide of problems and solutions to prevent problems from occurring.

• If your engine is having difficulties starting or appears to have difficulties reaching high speeds then you probably have a problem caused by clogged fuel filters. The owners manual for your car should be able to tell you how often the filters need to be changed. Bear in mind that if you live in a rural area or drive on a lot of dusty or gravel roads you will have to change your filter more often. Also as your car ages the filters may need changing more frequently.
• The build up of dirt around fuel injectors can also cause performance problems. Debris in your fuel tank can clog fuel injectors limiting the supply of petrol or forcing them open too wide; flooding the engine. Fuel system cleaners can be bought to help keep the injectors clean. They are available from most petrol stations and car accessory shops. Pour the cleaner into your empty petrol tank just before you fill it and the cleaner will circulate while you drive. If you do this every three months you shouldn't have a problem. If the cleaner hasn't worked then you will need to have your engine cleaned thoroughly at a garage which will be costly and take up time.
• Also where you buy your petrol from may make a difference. Branded petrol stations such as BP or Texaco will tend to get their fuel delivered to them first from their own tankers. Independent stations who don't have brand connections will usually receive the last drop from the tankers which means there is a higher risk the petrol has become contaminated with water or debris across the course of the day. A concentration of water can cause rust to appear quicker in your cars fuel system. This will make a noticeable difference to the performance of your car or may even prevent it from starting. To prevent this stick to name branded petrol stations and try to use pumps with built in filters.