Maybe I’m being paranoid, but I ordered an AC Delco fuel filter from Rock Auto and I wonder if what they sent was used. This would not be the first time they sent me a used part, I ordered side view mirrors from them previously and one of the ones they sent had the connector clipped off and somebody had the wires twisted like they had ordered the wrong part then tried to make it fit and when they didn’t they returned it. So I do not trust Rock Auto to actually check returns before restocking them, so what I am picturing is some low life replaced his fuel filter, then put it in the new filter’s box and “returned it” for a refund.

The reason I suspect that is because the filter is missing the plastic cap, looks stained, and if I put my nose right up to it I vaguely smell gas. Am I being paranoid or did Rock Auto send me a used part again?

Here are some pictures:

 

I know it can be a PIA but contact them - They have always been straight and square with me - with the small cheaper stuff 9 times out of 10 they will just send you a new part and eat the other no questions asked ....

 

It doesn't look used to me. Does it smell like gas? There's no way somebody would be able to get that smell out of it.

 

It does indeed, it’s faint but it’s there.

Is there anything in a new filter that could smell like that?

 

Not to my knowledge. If you aren't happy with it, I would send it back. Personally, I hate buying stuff that's obviously been returned.

 

So I used their automated system and they are sending a new one, and I don’t have to send it back the old one, but a day later and they still have not shipped the replacement, they printed a label, but have not sent it yet.

 

I got the new filter and it is also discolored and smells like gas...

 

I'm guessing that might just be normal.

 

My bets what you think you are smelling is oil residue from the process of pressing the parts and pieces to make the filter - residues are left on parts like these, if nothing else it helps to rust proof such parts ....