Faint fuel smell
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
What does a old fuel filter have to do with fumes. I understand it may not perform as it should due to being dirty, but fumes. With age do they possibly have a chance of leaking? Maybe I should look into changing the one on my 2002 with 20,000 miles.
2nd Gear
Joined: Feb 2026
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
It sounds like your Corvette might be having a fuel delivery issue, and starting with the fuel filter is a smart first step since its never been changed. Sometimes a weakening fuel pump or partially clogged fuel injectors can cause sputtering when you go to full throttle, even if the car runs fine at normal speeds. Spark plugs or ignition wires can also play a role, though usually that would affect more than just full throttle. One thing that could help narrow it down have you noticed any changes in exhaust smoke or smell when it sputters, like it seems rich or lean?
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,628
Likes: 4,071
From: Cape Coral, Florida
It sounds like your Corvette might be having a fuel delivery issue, and starting with the fuel filter is a smart first step since it's hisnever been changed. Sometimes a weakening fuel pump or partially clogged fuel injectors can cause sputtering when you go to full throttle, even if the car runs fine at normal speeds. Spark plugs or ignition wires can also play a role, though usually that would affect more than just full throttle. One thing that could help narrow it down have you noticed any changes in exhaust smoke or smell when it sputters, like it seems rich or lean?
This is a 10 year old thread...OP probably has it figured out by now.
