What Happens When My Fuel Line Freezes?

While a frozen fuel line is not an expensive problem to fix, it can be extremely inconvenient. Towing the vehicle to a garage or waiting for warmer weather is often the easiest solution.

Causes

  • While not a common phenomenon, it is possible for a fuel line to freeze. If the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and the vehicle is sitting outside, fuel line freeze-up can occur. Freezing occurs when water vapor mixes with residual fuel in the line.

Warming

  • The easiest solution is to move the car to a location where the temperature is above freezing and wait for the blockage to melt. It may be necessary to tow the vehicle to a garage. Attempt to start the car again after it has been sitting in warm temperatures for three hours.

Fuel Line Antifreeze

  • Adding a product like HEET, which is a fuel line antifreeze, can help thaw out a fuel line. This product is widely available at gas stations or auto parts stores. It contains isopropyl alcohol or methanol, which absorbs the water in the fuel lines. Once HEET has been put in the tank, let the car sit for an hour or so before trying to start it.

Blow out the Fuel Line

  • One solution is to remove the fuel line and blow it out with a compressor. It is possible to do this work yourself. If you are uncomfortable under the hood, it is best to have a professional do the work.