Ok so I know that the manual say to replace the fuel filter after 4 years, but with limited number of miles I know its overkill, but I'd like to do it anyways.

How often/ when did you, or plan to, change your fuel filter?

Rob at NW says its simply lift and replace, but the manual states to release the pressure, which may through a code.
Is it necessary to release the gas pressure, or can I just clamp and replace?

-Steve

 

You should release the pressure or when you pull the line off it might come spraying out like a fire hose for a few seconds till the pressure is gone.

 

But not if you clamp off the hoses properly prior to removing them though, correct?

Also is there any thing that needs to be done to purge air from the lines, like when replacing the IC pump?

-Steve

 

Look at the shop manual for instructions on changing the filter, Yes release the gas pressure, the release valve is on the fuel rail.
But frankly why bother unless you know you have had bad gas, seems like a waste of time and money, but as both of which are yours ......

 

The easiest way to relieve the the pressure is start the car and remove the fuel pump fuse and let it run till it stalls. Then crank it a few more times to make sure all the fuel is out of the line. You don't have to purge the air from the line. After you connect the lines put the fuse back in and turn the key to the on/run position but wait about ten seconds before cranking it over so the fuel pump can run to pressurize the system. If it throws a code and you don't have a code reader you can disconnect the battery to clear it or if you live near a autozone they can clear it for you for free.