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A friend of ours has a 2005 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCI which is a common rail turbo diesel.

Today, lots of white smoke came from under the bonnet (hood) which appeared to be coming from the fuel filter. The body of the fuel filter was very hot. She has parked the car and is not using it fearing (quite rightly) the risk of an engine fire.

I'll be taking a look at it tonight but can't think of any reason that a fuel filter would become so hot and emit smoke. Has anyone come across a similar scenario or have any suggestions of what I ought to check? My first thoughts are the condition and security of the fuel pipes but any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Steve Matthews
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Well I’ve been out and investigated tonight. It transpires that the fuel filter sits in a metal bracket which it bolted to the strut mount. This bracket had worked lose and dropped down. Immediately underneath it sits the alternator and this bracket shorted out the wiring on the back of the alternator.

I’ve reattached the bracket to the strut top but sadly the wiring on the back of the alternator seems to be fried as the car runs and drives but the battery light stays on.

Thanks to all for your input.

Steve Matthews
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