What to Do When One Fuel Injector is Faulty?

[LeMary]

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.

[LaJulia]

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.

[McLogan]

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.

[DiReese]

A faulty fuel injector can lead to serious consequences. Continuing to drive may cause the engine to misfire, resulting in rough operation, reduced power, and sluggish acceleration—especially dangerous when overtaking on highways. A malfunctioning injector disrupts fuel delivery, affecting the air-fuel ratio and causing poor ignition, potentially even damaging the cylinder liners. Simple checks include observing black smoke from the exhaust or unusual odors. For safety, don’t push through to your destination—get it repaired promptly. A professional shop can quickly diagnose the issue with a scanner, and replacing a fuel injector takes just half an hour to restore normal operation.

[LaViolet]

Want to reduce fuel injector issues? Here are some tips from my experience: Always choose reputable gas stations like Sinopec to ensure clean, high-quality fuel and prevent clogging from impurities; Inspect the fuel injectors every six months for carbon buildup or leaks; When the car has been parked for a long time, start it and let it run for a few minutes to warm up. A failed fuel injector is a common aging issue—just replace it promptly without panic. After installing a new one, the engine will immediately run quieter and smoother, with fuel consumption returning to normal. Long-term maintenance saves both hassle and money.