Replacing Fuel Filter In 2002 Highlander: Step-By-Step Guide

The fuel filter in a 2002 Toyota Highlander is located in the fuel tank, and is part of the gauge sender and fuel pump assembly. To replace the fuel filter, you will need to pull the rear seats to gain access to the fuel filter/pump inspection plate. This process involves gently prying up the forward edge of the cargo floor, removing the seat back bottom carpet, and unbolting the seat. Once you have accessed the fuel filter, you can remove it from the high-pressure fuel line and replace it with a new one. The cost of replacing a fuel filter for a 2002 Toyota Highlander is, on average, $201, with $61 for parts and $140 for labor.

The fuel filter is part of the fuel pump assembly

The fuel filter in a 2002 Toyota Highlander is part of the fuel pump assembly, located inside the fuel tank. To access it, you'll need to remove the rear seats. This process is similar to that of a 2002 Camry.

Once you've removed the rear seats, you'll need to locate the fuel filter/pump inspection plate. This is found by prying up the forward edge of the cargo floor, popping off the seat back bottom carpet, and then unbolting the seat. You'll then need to peel up the left-hand rear carpet and lift out the circular plate with the wire harness running through the centre.

After this, you can begin the process of removing the fuel filter. Start by unhooking the fuel line using your fingers, and then unplugging the wiring connector. Mark the orientation of the assembly as it sits in the tank, and then gently draw out the fuel sender/pump/filter assembly. You'll need to disconnect a rubber hose before the assembly is free.

When fitting a new fuel filter, simply reverse the process.

It's located in the tank

The fuel filter on a 2002 Toyota Highlander is located inside the fuel tank, as part of the fuel pump assembly. To access it, you'll need to pull out the rear seats of the car. This can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done.

Once you've removed the rear seats, you'll need to locate the fuel filter/pump inspection plate. This is usually found by lifting out a circular plate with a wire harness running through its centre. It is held in place with some black adhesive. After unhooking the fuel line and unplugging the wiring connector, you can then unscrew the attaching bolts and gently remove the fuel sender/pump/filter assembly.

It's important to mark the orientation of the assembly before removing it, as you'll need to swap the parts onto the new filter during reinstallation. Additionally, ensure that you work in a well-ventilated area with no combustible materials nearby.

The fuel filter is an integral part of the fuel delivery system, trapping contaminants such as rust particles and dirt. It is recommended to replace the fuel filter as part of scheduled maintenance or if fuel contamination, fuel system repairs, leaks, or warning light indications occur.

The cost of replacing the fuel filter on a 2002 Toyota Highlander V6-3.0L is estimated to be around $300, with $61 for parts and $140 for labour.

You need to remove the rear seats to access it

To access the fuel filter on a 2002 Toyota Highlander, you will need to remove the rear seats. This is because the fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank, as part of the fuel pump assembly.

First, gently pry up the forward edge of the cargo floor and pop off the seat back bottom carpet. Then, unbolt the seat. For the 2003 4-cylinder Highlander, this means removing four bolts. Next, peel up the left-hand rear carpet and lift out the circular plate with the wire harness running through the centre. It is held in place with some black goo.

Once you have removed the rear seat, you will be able to access the fuel filter.

Disconnect the fuel line and wiring connector

To disconnect the fuel line and wiring connector on a 2002 Toyota Highlander, you will need to first gently pry up the forward edge of the cargo floor and pop off the seat back bottom carpet. Once you have done this, you will need to unbolt the seat. There are four bolts that need to be removed. Next, peel up the left-hand rear carpet and lift out the circular plate with the wire harness running through the centre. This plate is held in place with some black goo.

Now, you can begin to disconnect the fuel line and wiring connector. First, unhook the fuel line using your fingers – no tools are required for this step. Then, unplug the wiring connector by releasing it at the forward side with a screwdriver. It is important to mark the orientation of the assembly as it sits in the tank before proceeding.

Unscrew the attaching bolts and gently remove the assembly

To remove the assembly, first, mark the orientation of the assembly as it sits in the tank. This will make it easier to reinstall the new assembly in the correct position.

Next, locate the attaching bolts. For a 2003 Highlander, these bolts are 8mm or 5/16. Using the appropriately sized tool, unscrew the bolts. Take care not to strip the threads or round off the bolt heads. Once the bolts are removed, gently draw out the fuel sender/pump/filter assembly. It may be necessary to disconnect a rubber hose before the assembly can be completely removed from the vehicle.

Now that the assembly has been removed, you can swap the old parts for new ones and reinstall the assembly.

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