Fuel filter replacement, 98 5.4
 

Simple question for you guys (or gals)....
I THINK, unless I'm being paranoid, that my MPG has declined recently and I have lost a bit of power and acceleration. Do y'all think this could be something as simple as the fuel filter? Seems as if it doesn't want to get up and go. Thats all I got for ya today. Pretty straight forward!

Thanks for any input! It is greatly appreciated.

I just changed mine. The fuel inside was nasty. Couldn't hurt my mpg anymore by changing it

It can certainly cause your engine to be sluggish as you described especially when accelerating. Ford recommends replacing it every 30,000 miles so unless you changed it recently, it is most likely due for change. The dirty filter can also make your fuel pump work harder and this can cause it to fail prematurely. At a cost of less than $20, I would not be afraid to over maintain by changing the fuel filter before 30,000. A failed fuel pump leaves you dead in the water and can cost you around $600.

Sluggish is actually exactly how I would describe it. I will get that changed and see if it helps any. I'm not to concerned with the mpg, but missing the power is kinda irritating me. If i had to bet, the previous owner has probably never changed the fuel filter.