DIY: Replacing Your Diesel Fuel Filter
Step-by-Step Guide: 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 3.0L Duramax (LM2) Diesel Fuel Filter Replacement
Proper diesel maintenance is key to keeping your Duramax engine running strong. Whether you’re driving a 3.0L or 6.6L Duramax, regularly changing your diesel fuel filter helps prevent injector damage, fuel delivery issues, and reduced performance. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, but many monitor through the vehicle’s system and adjust based on driving conditions.
DIY fuel filter replacement saves time, dealership fees, and gives you peace of mind knowing it’s done right. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through replacing the fuel filter on a 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 3.0L Duramax. All you need are a few basic tools– it’s one of the most valuable maintenance tasks you can do to protect your truck’s performance and longevity.
What You’ll Need
- aFe Diesel Fuel Filter (Part Number 44-FF023)
- Jack and jack stand
- T40 Torx wrench (for the drain plug)
- 36mm socket (for the filter housing)
- Can of carb cleaner or brake cleaner
- Torque wrench
- aFe Diesel fuel treatment (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Step 1: Locate and Access the Fuel Filter
Start by safely jacking up the truck and placing a jack stand under the driver’s side frame rail. The fuel filter is located on the driver’s side, mounted along the inside of the frame rail.
With the vehicle supported, locate the fuel filter housing.
Step 2: Remove the Old Fuel Filter
Use your T40 to drain out any fuel sitting in the filter, then use the 36mm socket to unscrew the housing. It’s torqued to around 14 lb-ft, so it shouldn’t take much force.
Remove the old fuel filter from the housing. Take note of the two O-rings—one on the top and one on the side. You’ll be replacing both.
Step 3: Clean the Filter Housing
Before installing the new filter, spray some carb or brake cleaner inside the housing to make sure it’s clean and free of debris. This will help ensure a good seal and prevent contamination.
Step 4: Install the New aFe POWER Fuel Filter
We used the aFe POWER Pro Guard Fuel Filter (Part Number 44-FF023). It fits:
- 2020–2025 GM 3.0L Duramax Diesel
- 2017–2025 GM 6.6L Duramax Diesel
The new filter comes with two O-rings—one for the inlet and one for the housing. Lightly coat the O-rings with diesel fuel to ensure a proper seal, then put the filter into the canister with the small end first, where you’ll feel a click once it’s in.
Make sure everything is seated correctly. When the filter is fully installed, you should not be able to see the O-ring. Tighten the housing cap to 14 lb-ft of torque.
Step 5: Prime the Fuel System
To prime the system, turn the ignition on without pressing the brake (keyless mode). You should hear the fuel pump cycle. Let it run for about 2 minutes to allow the system to prime and purge any air.
Step 6: Reset the Service Indicator
Once the filter is installed and the system is primed, don’t forget to reset the fuel filter life indicator on your dashboard. This will clear any warnings and keep your service intervals on track.
Bonus Tip: Add Fuel Treatment
This is a great time to top off your fuel system with aFe Diesel Fuel Booster– one small bottle can treat up to 100 gallons. Add it directly into your tank, and you’re good to go.
Fuel filter location on 2022 Sierra 1500 LM2
Using 36mm socket at 14 lb-ft torque to remove filter housing
Clean empty filter housing with Carb or Brake Cleaner
Dirty fuel filter ready to be repalced
aFe Fuel Filter showing side that will click into cannister
aFe Diesel Fuel Treatment
Final Thoughts
Your fuel filter is replaced, and the system is ready to go. It’s a simple job that takes under an hour and helps you avoid dealership labor costs. Staying on top of your maintenance keeps your diesel running strong and reliable.
If you ever run into any issues or have questions about the process, give us a call at 951-493-7101 M–F 8 am – 4 pm PST, or submit a ticket. Our in-house tech experts at aFe POWER are here to help.
Simplify Diesel Maintenance with the PRO GUARD Diesel Filter Pack
Changing your fuel filter is just one piece of proper diesel upkeep. For an easier way to stay ahead of routine service, aFe POWER offers the Diesel Maintenance Filter Pack—a complete, high-performance kit designed for today’s diesel trucks. Each pack includes an air filter, oil filter, fuel filter and water seperater, diesel fuel booster, and cabin air filter (on select kits), all engineered for durability, performance, and a perfect fit for your truck.
Available for select applications, these ready-made filter packs make diesel maintenance easy. Don’t wait until something fails– Protect your investment and keep your engine running clean with all the filters you need in one place.
Our POWER Professionals are Here to Help.
- Call us at 1-951-493-7101 or shoot us an email.
- We're available to talk Mon–Fri 8am–4pm PST.
- Factory Store: 232 Granite St. Corona, CA 92879
