not really worth checking fuel filter just replace it, only costs about 8 quid and by the time you cut you hands to hell getting at it you may aswell replace lol. needs doing about 100000km anyway but always do mine when i get a new car so i know its done. watch for split hoses awell, did one o gtst and botom hose had a nick in it sending out a very fine mist of fuel, you can pick up the tubing from halfords if need be but only ever had this once.