How to Change the Fuel Filter on 2001 Passat

1. Park the Passat on a flat surface. Raise the rear with the floor jack and lower it securely onto jack stands. You can also drive the back tires up on ramps to gain access to the filter. Never work under a car when it is only supported by a floor jack.
2. Locate the skid panel that protects the underside of the car; it is on the driver's side at the back of the car. Remove the four nuts around the perimeter of the panel with a socket and a ratchet. Remove the Phillips screw in the middle of the panel. Set the panel out of the way.
3. Remove the two bolts that hold the bracket for the fuel filter. The filter is cylindrically shaped. Squeeze the bracket with your hand once the two bolts are removed to loosen and remove the bracket. The filter should fall free.
4. Squeeze the fuel line from the gas tank that goes into the filter with the vise grips to prevent fuel from spilling when it is removed. Loosen the hose clamps that hold the fuel lines to the filter on either side, one that comes from the tank on one side and one that comes out of the filter on the other side that goes to the engine. Depending on the type, the clamps may be loosened with a screwdriver or by squeezing them together with a pair of pliers.
5. Install the new filter with the arrow on the filter facing toward the engine. Slide the fuel lines onto the filter on either side and tighten the hose clamps. Reinstall the fuel filter bracket with the two bolts and the screw that hold it on. Reinstall the skid panel. Start the engine to make sure there are no leaks. Lower the car back to the ground or drive it down off the ramps.