Bulkhead Workshop › Land Rover models › Land Rover Defender Td5 › Workshop guide › Drain water from fuel filter

Land Rover Defender Td5: drain water from fuel filter

Fuel & air · Defender (1990–2016) · 1998–2007

How often: every 12,000 mi or year, whichever comes first. Water in the fuel damages the Td5's unit injectors.

Work safely: support the vehicle on axle stands, never a jack alone; let it cool first. Check figures against your workshop manual. You do this work at your own risk.

Parts

Water sensor washer (if disturbed) WJN101860

Tools

Container

Step by step

Find the fuel filter on the chassis rail (your handbook shows its position).
Unscrew the water sensor or drain at the base and let it run until clean diesel comes out.
Refit with a new washer if needed and check for leaks.

More Land Rover Defender Td5 servicing

Engine oil & filter change every 6,000 mi or 6 months
Centrifugal oil filter rotor every 12,000 mi or year
Air filter element every 24,000 mi or 2 yrs
Fuel filter change & bleed every 24,000 mi or 2 yrs
Injector loom & ECU plug oil check every 12,000 mi or year
Fan / auxiliary belt check every 12,000 mi or year
Coolant drain, flush & refill every 3 yrs
Grease propshafts every 6,000 mi or 6 months
Check swivel housings & seals every 12,000 mi or year
Check gearbox, transfer & axle oil levels every 12,000 mi or year
Change gearbox & transfer box oil every 24,000 mi or 2 yrs
Change front & rear axle oil every 24,000 mi or 2 yrs
Steering & power steering check every 12,000 mi or year
Inspect pads, discs & brake hoses every 12,000 mi or year
Adjust transmission handbrake every 12,000 mi or year
Brake & clutch fluid change every 2 yrs
Suspension bushes, arms & dampers every 12,000 mi or year
Wheel bearings & hub seals every 24,000 mi or 2 yrs
Chassis & bulkhead inspection, rust-proofing every year
Annual safety inspection every year
Monthly walk-round checks every month

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