Originally Posted by texsexlex

...in the attached files from post # 2, it shows the fuel filter located inside the tank. I didn't see anything posted about it being under the backseat

Originally Posted by SC43052

Read post #12.

It is in the tank but accessed by removed a plate which is exposed by removing the back seat.

Originally Posted by SC43052

The fuel filter is definitely not a maintenance item on the SC430. However, if you were to experience contamination of the gas tank it is possible that the fuel filter could become fouled and require changing.

Fouling of the fuel filter would not affect gas mileage. If there is not enough fuel pressure available to the injector system the computer would throw a fault code. If you are receiving faults then you should troubleshoot for this possibility. Otherwise it would be a waste of time and money to change the filter.

And unless you are an experienced DIY and have handled fuel lines, changing the fuel filter would not be considered a trivial task.

It is integrated into the fuel pump assembly, which is located in the gas tank. To access it you need to remove the back seat, under which is a floor service hole cover that must be removed to expose the fuel pump assembly. The fuel pump assembly must be pulled from the tank and the fuel lines disconnected (remember you are working in the back seat). Then the fuel filter can be disassembled from the pump on a bench and replaced. In addition a number of gaskets and O-rings need to be replaced during reassembly and installation into the fuel tank. If all of the replaced fuel line connections are not tight the unit will leak gas. And if the sending unit is not replaced properly the gas gauge will not read correctly.

The fuel filter is about $40-$50 (aftermarket), and I would estimate the attendant O-rings and gaskets would be approximately $10-$20 more.