How to Replace the Fuel Filter on a 2002 Ford Explorer
- 1). Crawl under the driver's side of the Explorer, below the driver's door, with a catch pan, fuel line quick-disconnect tool and new fuel filter.
- 2). Locate the fuel filter by following the fuel lines forward from the gas tank, along the inboard side of the left frame rail. The fuel filter is in the fuel lines below the driver's seat area.
- 3). Pull the retaining clip out of the forward fuel line where the line connects to the fuel filter using the fuel line quick-disconnect tool. Repeat this on the rear line where it meets the filter as well.
- 4). Pull the fuel lines off the fuel filter carefully. Slide the old filter out of the retaining band and place it in the catch pan. Make sure that the pan is under the filter area at all times so you don't end up lying in gasoline.
- 5). Slide the new filter in place, making sure the flow arrow points towards the front of the Explorer.
- 6). Slide the fuel lines onto the new filter and gently push the retaining clips back down into the lines.
- 7). Climb out from under the vehicle with the catch pan, tool and old filter. Turn the ignition key to the "Run" position and count to 10. Shut off the engine. Turn the key back to the "Run" position, count to 10 again then start the Explorer.
