No, but it is safer if you do.
Look for a Schrader valve on the fuel rail and press it to relieve pressure. If there is not one remove the fuel cap and then be prepared for a small spray of fuel when you disconnect the filter. Place a rag around the connection before disconnecting it.
How do you depressurize fuel system to install filter 1998 ford expedition?
Pull the fuel pump relay in fuse box under hood and try to start car.
No you do not , just loosen the lines slowly and the pressure will leak off Don't smoke are have a drop light close, cause fuel will run out, but then stop.
Remove gas cap and suck all gasoline from gas tank.
depressurize the fuel system by unplugging fuel pump fuse and run till it dies. disconnect top hose and "T" in with a fuel pressure guage
Remove the fuel pump relay from the under hood fuse box and crank the truck until it doesn't try to start.
fuel filter should be located inside engine compartment monted on fire wall.remember to depressurize fuel system and DISCONNECT battery when doing this.
AnswerWith the engine running, pull fuse #1, the fuel pump fuse. Let the engine run out of gas.
to depressurerize the system you would simply take off the gas cap.(fuel will still be in the lines and it will spill when the lines are disconected but it would not be under pressure)
open the gas cap
relieve the pressure in you fuel system by disconnecting your fuel pump the change the fuel filter the hook your pump back up