How to Replace a Fuel Filter in a Ford Expedition

The 1997-2006 Ford Expedition models come equipped with a quick-connect fuel filter. The main responsibility of the fuel filter is to keep any type of fuel impurities from entering into the fuel injectors so only clean fuel makes it to the injectors and the engine. Replace the fuel filter between 60,000 and 75,000 miles. You can purchase the quick-disconnect tool that you will need for this job at most auto-parts stores.

Park the Ford Expedition in a well-ventilated location that has a level surface. Engage the parking brake to keep the vehicle from rolling.

Slowly remove the gas cap from the filler tube on the gas tank. This process will depressurize the fuel system and prevent fuel from spraying when the fuel lines are removed from the fuel filter.

Slide under the driver side of the Expedition and locate the fuel filter, which is mounted to the frame rail directly in front of the gas tank. The fuel filter is a cylinder-shaped component with a quick-connect fuel line coming out of each end. Slide the drip pan underneath the fuel filter.

Insert the end of the quick-disconnect tool into the end of one of the fuel lines. Then, press the tool inward into the fuel line. This will release the fuel line from the fuel filter port. Pull out on the fuel line at the same time that the tool is being pressed inward. Pull the fuel line straight off the fuel filter port. Move the tool to the other fuel line and repeat the process.

Loosen the clamp from around the fuel filter with a flat-head screwdriver. Note the direction of the arrow on the side of the fuel filter. The new fuel filter will need to be positioned with the arrow pointing in the same direction. Then, pull the fuel filter out of the bracket and place it into the drip pan.

Position the new fuel filter into the clamp with the arrow pointing in the proper direction. Tighten the clamp over the fuel filter with the screwdriver. Then, push both fuel lines straight onto the fuel filter ports until each line locks in place. Once the lines are pushed far enough onto the ports, the plastic clips will lock inside of the fuel lines. Then, slowly pull outward on the fuel lines to ensure that each fuel line is secured to the fuel filter ports.

Slide the drip pan out from under the Expedition and screw the gas cap back onto the filler tube until it clicks.

Turn the ignition to the accessory position for about five seconds and then turn it back to the off position. Repeat this a total of three times before cranking the engine.

Crank the engine and inspect the new fuel filter for signs of gas leaking around the fuel lines. Allow the engine to run for about 30 seconds. Then, turn the engine off.