How can a clogged fuel filter affect engine operation?

A clogged fuel filter restricts the flow of fuel to the engine. This reduced fuel flow can lead to insufficient fuel reaching the combustion chamber, which directly affects the engine's performance. As a result, the engine may experience symptoms such as reduced power, poor acceleration, misfiring, or even stalling altogether. Proper fuel delivery is crucial for maintaining optimal engine operation, and any obstruction in the fuel system can hinder the engine's ability to run smoothly. Therefore, the performance issues linked to a clogged fuel filter make this the correct answer.

In contrast, while clogged fuel filters can lead to operational inefficiencies, they do not typically cause significant increases in exhaust emissions, engine overheating, or improvements in acceleration response, as those conditions would stem from other issues in the fuel system or engine operation.