How often to change the fuel filter?

[99EBEXP]

Hi all, I have a 99 Eddie Bauer Explorer, SOHC v6 (purchased in California, now in Phoenix). In the scheduled maintenance it seems to allude to replacing the fuel filter every 15,000 miles, especially if the it's a 4x4.

Is 15k the right interval to change the fuel filter, or have I mis-understood the scheduled maintenance manual?

In the manual, it says "light trucks, sport utilities, and vans: All service above, plus: Replace Fuel Filter - gasoline engines (E/F Super Duty) * ", and then it reads " 4x4: All service above Plus: lubricate transfer case linkage, if equipped".

The * reads: * if vehicle is registered in California, the California Air Resources Board has determined that the failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle's useful life. We, however, urge that all recommended maintenance services be performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded.

So this reads to me as if my 4x4 Explorer requires the fuel filter change at every 15,000 miles.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

 

[nssj2]

I service mine every 30k, which is about the limit for most retail filters. 15k is a bit overkill, unless the vehicle sits a lot, or the gas quality is usually poor at fill ups.

 

[99EBEXP]

Thanks, yes my Explorer tends to sit a lot, which maybe a factor to consider in changing my fuel filter every 15k miles.

On my wife's 2000 Honda Accord, it seems the interval is every 60,000 miles, which is pretty crazy long. I checked my 60,000 mile service from the Honda dealer, and I don't even see a fuel filter change on it...need to check with the dealer next time.

I buy CostCo gas, which I'm hoping is a decent quality. I've been told by friends who had worked at CostCo that their gas is the same as the name brands..just cheaper, LOL.