Changing the Fuel Filter (2001 4 cylinder)

[eric.b]

Do you think its possible to change the fuel filter without removing the back seat? Anyway thats what the Haynes manual directs to get to a section of the fuel system to relieve the pressure. Is there an easier way, or could one slowly disconnect the filter to relieve pressure that way?

Thanks

[cj0609]

you replacing the filter or the pump.

[jermag24]

It is best to remove the seat, remove the fuel pump access cover, unplug the electrical connector to the pump, then start the engine and rev it until it dies. This de-pressurizes the system. However, if you don't mind gas going all over the place, you can gently crack the fuel line at the filter and allow it to bleed off the pressure that way.

If you let the car sit over night, and hit the filter first thing in the AM, before starting it, it should have less pressure.

[DxElite]

I followed the Hanes manual, didn't work as well as I thought it would. After disconnecting the power to the fuel pump, I tried to start the car but it wouldn't start but I kept at it for a while to try to get the fuel pressure down. Then I went to disconnect the fuel lines from the filter and the gas lines still had enough pressure that fuel was spilling. Probably not as much fuel if I hadn't done the depressurize thing. So my advice is be prepared for fuel spillage either way.

[ghettosled]

the back seat is very easy to remove - just pull the front up.

can you pull the fuse under the hood for the fuel pump?