LandCruiser 200

Fuel filter change &
Dash Light Reset

Step-by-Step

The dreaded 'fuel filter warning light'

Because Toyota don't specify a regular interval to change the fuel filter on the 200, the first indication it requires replacement is when the warning light appears on the dash, usually after a squirt of high throttle.

Unfortunately, dealers charge upwards of $120 to change the filter, even though the elements only cost $25 to $40 to buy, and can be changed quite easily in under 20 minutes.

Jump to: Dash warning light reset procedure

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Choosing a LandCruiser 200 fuel filter

I cannot overemphasise how important it is to choose a quality fuel filter for the 200. Common rail diesel systems operate at extremely high pressures and extremely tight tolerances. If the fuel filter doesn't do its job properly then it could cause severe (read expensive) damage to the fuel injection system.

I strongly recommend you use only premium-quality filters, where manufacturing facilities meet ISO9001 quality standards. Brands that meet these standards include Ryco or of course genuine Toyota filters. There is no way I'd be using a no-name filter.

IMPORTANT

The following should not be taken as instructions. It is simply a documenting of the procedure I followed for my own servicing and maintenance. No warranty is provided as to the accuracy of the information, and/or whether it applies in your situation or to your vehicle.

If you're not qualified and/or don't have the correct equipment, don't attempt to perform your own vehicle maintenance.

There are potentially lethal dangers resulting from the vehicle during the procedure.
There is the potential for expensive vehicle damage from improper servicing procedures.
Ensure there are no naked flames or other ignition sources nearby
Never work on the fuel system or change filters if the engine is still hot from recent operation.
Never smoke while changing the fuel filter.

If you undertake your own fuel filter change, you do so entirely at your own risk.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

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A quality fuel filter, such as a genuine Toyota 23390-51070 or Ryco R2657P
A rag.

A 12mm socket
A 5mm allen key.
A pair of pliers.

LandCruiser 200 Fuel filter change

Download a "Glovebox guide" of these steps in PDF format, for printing or saving to your phone/tablet:

Download PDF guide

Click to Enlarge

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter removing clamps

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter sensor plugs

1. Preparation

Have a new filter handy
Place a rag under the fuel filter
Loosen the two fuel line hose clamps and slide the clamps down the hoses.
Slide the fuel lines off the filter housing, and secure them so fuel doesn't drip out of the lines.
Unplug the electrical connectors from pressure sensor (top) and the water sensor (bottom).
Never smoke while changing the fuel filter.
Never change the fuel filter if the engine is still hot.

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter remove cover

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter remove filter element

Step 2: Remove the old filter

Using a 12mm socket, remove the two nuts securing the filter assembly to the bracket
Using a 5mm allen key, remove the three socket screws holding the top onto the housing.
Remove the top and set aside
Lift out the old filter and dispose of it, plus the large 'O' ring.

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter dirty fuel bowl

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter clean fuel bowl

Step 3: Check and Clean the housing

Check the contents of the housing/bowl. It should contain fuel, probably contaminated with dirt and other gunk. There should be little or no water present. If it contains a large amount of water, suspect contaminated fuel and consider draining and flushing the fuel tank(s).
Water entering the common rail fuel system could do catastrophic damage.
Dispose of the contaminated fuel with your used engine oil.
Thoroughly clean out the bowl with a cloth or rag.
Replace the housing onto the bracket

Landcruiser 200 fuel filter colour coded fuel lines

Step 4: Install the new filter

First install the new 'O' ring into the filter housing, with the flat side facing down.
Place the new filter into the housing and push it down until it clicks into place.
Refit the top of the housing and secure it using the 3x socket screws, tightening them with the 5mm allen key.
Replace the nuts securing the housing to the bracket, and tighten with the 12mm socket.
Refit the fuel lines, ensuring you connect them to the correct fittings. The lines are colour-coded to marks on the top of the filter housing.
Refit/tighten the hose clamps.
Do not reconnect the electrical plugs yet.

Step 5: Reset the fuel filter warning light

With the electrical plugs still disconnected, move into the vehicle and turn on the ignition, by pressing the start button twice without your foot on the brake pedal.
With the ignition still on, move back to the filter and re-attach the two electrical plugs.
The dash light is now reset.

Step 6: Prime the fuel system

Repeatedly pump the priming plunger located on the top of the filter housing until it becomes difficult to press.
Start the engine
If the engine stalls, repeat the procedure.
You may need to repeat this a few times.

Download this guide in PDF format

Print a copy for your glovebox or save to your phone/tablet, so it's handy if you ever need to change a filter while travelling: