Has anyone changed a fuel filter on a 03+ 4Runner? I gather they are in the tank... what a PITA.....

 

I doubt they are in the tank, you might want to do some more research before tearing your truck apart.

 

When I was having bad MPG and took my '03 in to check checked (and do the timing belt), I asked them to change the fuel filter... They said there is a no reason to, its basically a lifetime part.
Now I don't necessarily agree with that... But, that is what the service deptment told me and they will do anything to pry you from your money. Both a tech and writer said this.

 

According to toyota is a lifetime part in the tank... I dont agree with that either, which is why I want to change it... but I guess I'll forget about it...

 

If its in the tank, its just a pump sock. I bet there is one inline. If not, shame on Toyota for that. *EDIT* After searching the net, looks like it really does mount in the tank. What a terrible design.

I have no idea why or where they would get the idea that ANY filter, or ANY fluid is lifetime (IE the new transmissions). ANY filter WILL get dirty and clogged. Then you have to pay THEM for a new engine when it dies just past warranty.

And all you naysayers who dont believe me, if you wanna argue my point, prove to me that a filter (which is designed to filter dirty oil, fuel, etc etc) will never, in the whole LIFE of the vehicle, get dirty.

That, or Toyota just expects their trucks to die after a few years....which isn't really surprising given their quality as of late.

 

http://www.1motormart.com/parts/1/20...er+Fuel+Filter

Apparently they look like this: