Fuel injectors are vital components of your fuel delivery system, ensuring the correct amount of gasoline enters the engine at the right pressure for efficient combustion. But, poor driving conditions or debris buildup can throw a wrench in the system, leading to fuel injector failure.
So, how much will a fuel injector replacement cost?
We’ll explore the expenses and highlight the warning signs of a fuel injector problem. We’ll also share tips to extend the lifespan of your fuel injectors so you can avoid costly repairs.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Fuel Injector Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Fuel Injector?
- Signs You Need a Fuel Injector Replacement
- How Long Does a Fuel Injector Last?
- How Do Fuel Injectors Work?
- Can Damaged Fuel Injectors Cause Engine Overheating?
How Much Does a Fuel Injector Replacement Cost?
Here’s an estimate for replacing a bad fuel injector at a car repair shop:
A. Range
Fuel injector replacement costs can vary between $335 to $2,000.
This includes:
- Cost of parts: $35 to $1600 (per piece)
- Cost of labor: $300 to $400
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The charge for fuel injector replacement depends on your vehicle’s make and model and the labor costs in your location.
Other factors influencing the final bill include:
- Extent of damage: Your costs can increase if the mechanic discovers more than one faulty fuel injector. They’ll advise replacing all the injectors, even if only one has failed, as a single faulty injector may indicate that the others are close to failing, too. Replacing multiple injectors together can also save you significant labor costs in the long run.
- Vehicle size: Larger vehicles have more combustion cylinders to generate greater power, meaning more fuel injectors may need replacing. This can increase your overall costs.
- Quality of the replacement part: An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) fuel injector typically costs more than an aftermarket alternative. Aftermarket parts are cheaper as they aren’t always made of the same high-quality materials as OEM parts.
- Additional repairs: Your car repair mechanic may charge extra to replace additional damaged parts, such as pistons, valves, lifters, fuel rail, and more.
Note: Fuel injectors are typically covered under your manufacturer’s powertrain warranty. Depending on the warranty terms, the cost of the replacement part and labor will likely be included.
Is It Worth Replacing the Fuel Injector?
In a word – yes.
A malfunctioning fuel injector can lead to poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
How?
Faulty injectors can release excess fuel into the cylinder, which could then seep into the engine oil. Consequently, the fuel dilutes the oil, stripping the protective layer from crucial moving parts like pistons, exhaust valves, and spark plugs, causing significant engine damage.
If you suspect the slightest issue with your engine’s fuel injectors, visit an auto repair shop for an inspection to avoid further damage.
Signs You Need a Fuel Injector Replacement
Watch out for these six common signs of a bad fuel injector:
- Decreased engine power: Your car’s engine will quickly lose power if it isn’t receiving enough fuel. This is a clear sign that something may be wrong with the fuel injector. You’ll find it difficult to get the extra speed needed to overtake another vehicle or struggle when ascending an uphill road.
- Poor fuel efficiency: If your car uses more fuel than usual and you refuel more often, one or multiple fuel injectors are likely malfunctioning.
- Misfiring engine: Dirty or clogged injectors disrupt the balance between air and fuel entering the engine. As a result, the injector fails to deliver the correct amount of fuel at pressure, leading to engine misfires.
- Rough idling: When you have one or more faulty injectors, your vehicle will struggle to maintain smooth motion in traffic and experience a rough idle. The engine may emit odd noises, and your car may vibrate.
- Engine stalling: If insufficient fuel reaches the combustion chamber, the engine will cut out, causing the car to stall.
- Illuminated Check Engine Light: When too much or too little fuel is delivered to the engine, the Check Engine Light will activate, hinting at a potential fuel injector issue.
How Long Does a Fuel Injector Last?
With proper care and maintenance, fuel injectors can typically last for 150,000 miles or more.
Using high-quality fuel can significantly extend their lifespan and help cut down on fuel injector replacement costs.
Additionally, by investing in top-tier fuel injector cleaners, you can effectively remove carbon buildup, clean the fuel line, and eliminate deposits on the injectors. This improves their efficiency and overall performance.
How Do Fuel Injectors Work?
Your car’s fuel pump pushes fuel from the gas tank through the fuel lines to the engine.
Fuel injectors break down the fuel into tiny droplets before spraying it through a small nozzle into the engine’s combustion chamber. This fine disintegration allows the fuel to burn more efficiently, providing the power that drives your vehicle.
The car’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) plays a critical role by continuously sending electrical signals to each injector. It determines how much fuel to release and when depending on the engine’s demands. For instance, during acceleration, the ECU instructs the injectors to deliver more fuel, while less is needed when the car is idling.
The entire fuel system runs like clockwork to ensure proper fuel delivery (or fuel injection), allowing the engine to run smoothly.
Can Damaged Fuel Injectors Cause Engine Overheating?
Yes, they can.
A faulty fuel injector may fail to deliver the correct amount of fuel at the right time into the engine’s combustion chamber from the high-pressure fuel rail. This fuel shortage causes some pistons to misfire while others have to work harder to compensate, which can lead to engine overheating.
A quick inspection by your local mechanic can reveal if the injectors are clogged or the fuel injection system is compromised.
Fuel Injector Replacement Made Easy with AutoNation Mobile Service
When fuel injectors fail, your car’s engine performance and fuel economy are significantly affected. Consequently, this can derail plans to go to work, run errands, or embark on a trip.
If you feel your engine’s fuel injectors need to be examined, call AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution available seven days a week. Our mobile mechanic can diagnose and fix your fuel injector issue right from your driveway!
Get a free quote online and book an appointment for a fuel injector replacement service or fuel pressure test today.