Are fuel injectors worth replacing?

Fuel injectors feed your engine with precise amounts of fuel, which allows it to operate efficiently and with adequate power. If an injector is bad and cannot be cleaned and reused, it must be replaced. Otherwise, your engine will lose fuel efficiency and performance. It may also fail an emissions test. You will likely spend more at the pump. And your engine might quit working altogether. Fuel injectors are certainly worth replacing.

Is it better to clean or replace fuel injectors?

As a general rule, replacing an old, high mileage part with a new one is better than simply cleaning and reinstalling the old part. However, the cost of fuel injectors on some vehicle makes and models can be extremely high. When purchasing new fuel injectors is cost-prohibitive, fuel injector service performed by a qualified technician is a worthwhile investment.

What happens when one injector fails?

When a fuel injector fails, it will no longer allow fuel to enter the combustion chamber the way it should. It may shut off completely, or it may atomize less fuel than called for. When this occurs, that injector’s cylinder will make less horsepower than the rest, which can cause a vibration and misfire in the engine. The condition can often be detected with a scan tool connected to the vehicle’s diagnostic data port. If severe enough, you might notice by simply listening to the engine while driving. Not only might the check engine light come on or the engine shake, but your engine will lose fuel efficiency and power.