02 engine hesitation question

[iamweasel]

Over the last couple weeks, maybe 3 times, when put in either forward or reverse, the Explorer would chug like it wanted to stall but didn't. Today on the highway the service engine light came on and for about 30 seconds she got sluggish and then cleared up. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance!

 

[iamweasel]

Its my wifes vehicle and I just checked her service records and it looks like she spaced it and didn't have the fuel filter replaced 2 years ago. I'm going to go with that at the moment.

 

[07gtman]

what engine is in the truck?

 

[iamweasel]

It's the 4.0. Not sure if the filter change fixed it, haven't had a chance to drive it around yet, and its been 40-50k in mileage since the last change, but she sure starts faster and runs smoother.