I want to change my fuel filter on my 2001 Forester. My book tells me to disconnect the fuel pump relay so that I don't have pressure in the line. It shows the relay as being one of three connectors grouped above and to the left of the brake pedal. I can't find anything down there that closely fits the bill. I've attached a picture with two different harness groups and I'm hoping maybe you guys can point me to the fuel pump relay. Connectors 1 through 3 are pretty much against the side wall towards the driver door. Connectors 4 through 6 are right above the hood release. I'd appreciate any direction you could give.

 

Alan

League City, TX

What I do is just wrap a good shop towel around the fuel filter fitting whilst disconnecting its fuel hose. Yes, some fuel will shoot out, but not a ton, and it's easier than trying to figure out connectors and other stuff.

And I have a fuel pressure gauge that tells me there's is no residual pressure left after three hours. If you want to be absolutely safe do it after the car as sat thru the night.

porcupine way is the way I would do it, but if you must do it the book way #2(brown) of the 1to3 connectors is the one you want

 

SEA#3

When I changed the fuel filter on my 94 TW, I unplugged the harness from the fuel pump (easily accessible from under the carpet in the back) and ran the car until it died (a second). Opened the gas cap. Barely was any fuel pressure in the system and a minimal amount squirted out. Quick and painless replacement.

I unplugged the plug under my rear seat to undo the fuel pump. Then I started the car and ran it for a second until it died. Then I just pulled the tube with some needle nose pliers and the fuel filter was out and in within 10 minutes.