What to Do When One Fuel Injector is Faulty?
3 Answers
If a fuel injector is faulty, it should be disassembled for repair. If the damage is severe, it should be replaced. After replacement, the fuel injection pressure should be adjusted to 22-0.5Pa, ensuring good spray performance without dripping. Symptoms of a faulty engine fuel injector include the following: 1. Black smoke from the exhaust pipe. 2. Uneven operation of each cylinder, causing noticeable engine vibration. 3. Decreased engine power. 4. Weak vehicle performance. 5. To diagnose a faulty engine injector, let the engine idle and perform a fuel cut-off test on each cylinder sequentially.
If you notice engine shaking and lack of power while driving, it's likely due to a faulty fuel injector. I would first pull over to check if any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard. Find a safe spot, open the engine compartment, and listen for unusual noises. Feel the temperature of each fuel injector—the faulty one might have uneven heating. If possible, use a simple diagnostic tool to check for trouble codes and identify which injector is problematic. I recommend visiting a repair shop as soon as possible. Delaying repairs can affect other cylinders, increase fuel consumption, and harm the environment. Replacing it yourself is challenging—it involves disassembling parts and cleaning sealing rings, which is difficult for most people. It's best left to professional mechanics. Using higher-quality fuel and regular maintenance can help prevent this issue.
When encountering a faulty fuel injector, consider the repair costs. Replacing it yourself with a new one can cost several hundred to over a thousand, depending on the car model. If you're handy, you might try OEM or aftermarket parts, but you'll need specialized tools like a fuel injector wrench and must clean the intake manifold—time-consuming and labor-intensive. Small shops may be cheaper, while large repair centers offer better service at a higher price. Delaying repairs worsens the issue: engine shaking increases, fuel consumption spikes, and long-term savings on fuel won't cover repair costs. I faced this before—opted for an aftermarket part, spent nearly a thousand, and did a full inspection to prevent chain failures.
