Changing Fuel Filters: 1999 Ford F150 Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the fuel filter on a 1999 Ford F150 is a relatively simple task that can be performed by a novice truck owner or tackled by a local mechanic. The fuel filter is always located between the fuel tank and the engine, and in the case of the 1999 F150, it is under the cab, along the inside of the frame rail. It is recommended to change the fuel filter every 5 years/50,000 miles, but this may vary depending on your driving habits and where you live. The average cost to change a vehicle's fuel filter is between $90 and $207, but this can be done at home with the right tools and safety precautions.

Safety precautions

Changing the fuel filter on your 1999 Ford F-150 is a simple task that can be done at home. However, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure the process is completed without any issues. Here are some detailed safety instructions to follow:

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake: It is important to ensure your vehicle is securely parked and will not roll or shift during the repair process.
• Wear protective gear: Put on safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from any fuel spills or debris.
• Relieve the pressure in the fuel system: Before starting any work on the fuel filter, it is crucial to relieve the pressure in the fuel lines. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to locate the fuel pump fuse and remove it. Then, start the engine and let it run for a minute or two until it dies. This will relieve the pressure in the fuel lines.
• Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent the engine from being started accidentally during the repair process.
• Place a bowl or bucket under the fuel filter: Even though you relieved the pressure, some fuel may still be present in the lines. Place a container under the fuel filter to catch any fuel that may spill during the removal process.
• Avoid smoking or open flames: Fuel is highly flammable, so ensure there are no sources of ignition nearby. Do not smoke or use any tools that may create sparks during the repair process.
• Properly dispose of used fuel: Any fuel that spills or is drained during the filter replacement should be collected and disposed of responsibly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the environment. Take it to a designated recycling location or hazardous waste disposal facility.
• Ventilate the area: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the fuel. If possible, perform the repair outdoors or in a garage with the doors open.
• Avoid plastic containers for fuel: Be cautious when using plastic containers to collect spilled fuel, as it may eat through some types of plastic and cause leaks.
• Secure the vehicle: If you need to jack up the vehicle to access the fuel filter, use jack stands to support the weight of the vehicle securely. Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
• Refuel in a well-ventilated area: After completing the repair, remember to refuel your vehicle in a well-ventilated area, away from any sources of ignition.

By following these safety precautions, you can help ensure that you change your 1999 Ford F150 fuel filter safely and effectively.

Depressurising the fuel system

Step 1: Remove the fuse cover

Locate the fuse cover under the hood on the driver's side. Remove it to access the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top.

Step 2: Disable the inertia fuel reset switch

Using the end of a rubber mallet, tap the middle of the switch to disable it. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Alternatively, there are several other methods to depressurise the system:

• Trip the inertia switch.
• Unplug the inertia switch.
• Unplug the fuel tank selector switch.
• Unplug the fuel pump relay.
• Unhook the power feed to the fuel pump relay.
• Push in the nipple on the rail where you would check your pressure.

It is important to note that depressurising the fuel system is a crucial step to avoid having fuel spray everywhere when you disconnect the fuel lines from the filter.

Once you have successfully depressurised the fuel system, you can proceed to the next steps of changing the fuel filter: removing the old filter and installing the new one.

Disconnecting the fuel filter

To disconnect the fuel filter, start by relieving the pressure from the fuel system. Remove the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side, and trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. You can disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with a rubber mallet.

Next, locate the fuel filter under the driver's side door. To remove it, start by unhooking the metal retaining clip. Then, position the line compression removal tool at the front end of the filter and apply a small amount of pressure, sliding the tool into the line fitting until it slides off. You may need to slide the filter partially out of its bracket to gain access.

At this point, fuel will start to drain out, so have towels handy to control the mess. Move the fuel line so that it's raised to minimise fuel leakage.

Repeat this process at the rear of the filter, applying minimal pressure. Once both ends of the line fitting have been removed, use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the dirty filter.

Now, you're ready to install the new filter. Ensure the flow arrow is pointing towards the front end of your F150, then reconnect the front line and hook the retaining clip back into place. Repeat this for the rear line.

Installing the new filter

Now that you have relieved the pressure from the fuel system and removed the old fuel filter, it's time to install the new one.

First, make sure that the new filter is positioned correctly. The flow arrow on the new filter should be pointing towards the front end of your F-150. Once you have confirmed the correct positioning, reconnect the front line and hook the retaining clip back into place. Repeat this process for the rear line.

Next, you will need to insert the new filter into the bracket and press the fuel lines onto the new filter. Listen for a click during installation to ensure the lines are properly connected.

After you have hooked the fuel lines to the new filter, install the safety clips.

Finally, reset the inertia switch by clicking the red button once more. Cycle the ignition a few times before checking for leakage, and remember to keep the engine running when testing out your new filter.

It is important to emphasise the safety precautions when performing this task. Always use eye protection and do not smoke while working on a fuel system. Additionally, make sure to relieve the pressure in the fuel line before beginning, as gas can spray everywhere if the lines are still pressurised.

Resetting and testing

Now that you have installed the new filter, you are ready to reset the inertia switch. To do this, simply click the red button once more. Before testing, cycle the ignition a few times and check for any leakage. Remember to keep the engine running when testing out your new filter.

There are several ways to depressurize the fuel system. You can trip the inertia switch, unplug the inertia switch, unplug the fuel tank selector switch, unplug the fuel pump relay, or unhook the power feed to the fuel pump relay. Alternatively, you can remove the fuse cover located under the hood on the driver's side and trip the inertia fuel reset switch, which should have a red rubber top. You should be able to disable the switch by tapping it in the middle with the end of a rubber mallet. You will know you have been successful when the motor gives out.

Another way to depressurize the system is by removing the gas cap and starting the engine until it runs out of gas. You can also try pushing in the nipple on the rail where you would check your pressure.

Frequently asked questions