How to Change the Fuel Filter in a Ford Expedition

Changing the fuel filter is not difficult and will improve performance.

The fuel filter on your Ford Expedition clogs with dirt and other small particles after years of service, lowering fuel pressure to the system and affecting engine performance. Changing the filter is not difficult. You can replace the unit in a matter of minutes following these simple steps. Make sure you have all the necessary tools before you begin. The procedure applies to the 2005 Expedition, which is similar to other models.

Things You'll Need

• Small screwdriver
• Floor jack and jack stand
• Wrench set
• Ratchet and socket
• Spring lock coupling tool

Instructions

1. Park the vehicle in a safe place and with enough room for you to work around your Expedition.

2. Loosen the filler cap, open the hood and remove the accessory cover from the fuel supply manifold or fuel rail.

3. Remove the black, negative battery cable and relieve the fuel system pressure. Locate the Schrader valve right before the first fuel injector on the fuel rail-the valve is similar to the air valve on a bicycle tire. Using a small screwdriver, depress the small stem inside the valve. Cover the valve with a shop rag to catch the squirt of fuel.

4. Set the transmission to neutral and lift the rear, right-hand side of the vehicle (passenger side) using a floor jack and support the car safely on a jack stand.

5. Locate the fuel filter under the frame rail, near the fuel tank and clean the lines and fittings on both ends of the fuel filter. This will prevent fuel system contamination.

6. Remove the nuts from the support bracket holding the fuel filter using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Pull the bracket off the filter.

7. Disconnect the outlet fuel line--the one going towards the engine--using a spring lock coupling tool, which you can buy at most auto parts stores. Then disconnect the quick release coupling from the other end of the filter by pressing the locking tabs; push the fitting against the filter and then pull the line off the filter.

8. Connect the outlet and inlet fuel lines to the new filter. Make sure the arrow on the side of the filter case is pointing towards the engine. Install the filter on its bracket and secure the bracket to the frame rail.

9. Lower the vehicle and connect the negative battery cable; tighten the filler cap, start the engine and check for fuel leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• When working on the fuel system of your vehicle, do not allow smoking near or around the car and park away from appliances with open flames like water heaters and dryers to avoid a possible accident.