The fuel rail pressure sensor in your car monitors fuel pressure, enabling the engine control module (ECM) to adjust ignition timing for optimal performance.
But if you’re experiencing starting troubles and refilling the gas tank more often, your car might need a brand-new fuel pressure sensor.
Curious about the fuel rail pressure sensor replacement cost and what affects the price?
We’ll break down the expenses, guide you through the replacement process, and explain why leaving this one to the pros is a wise choice.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor?
- 6 Critical Signs You Need to Replace a Faulty Sensor
- How Long Does a Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Last?
- How to Test the Fuel Sensor to Detect a Fault
- Should You Replace the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Yourself?
- How to Prevent the Fuel Pressure Sensor From Failing
How Much Does the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost?
Here’s a rough estimate for fuel pressure sensor replacement:
A. Range
The average cost of replacing a bad fuel pressure sensor ranges from $190 to $430, covering:
- Parts cost: $50 to $160
- Labor cost: $140 to $270
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Additional aspects that impact your expenses include:
- Vehicle make and model: Depending on the car’s fuel injection system, you may need high-pressure and low-pressure rail sensors. For instance, vehicles like the Ford F-150 require both sensors, while other cars like the Mazda CX-5 have only one fuel rail pressure sensor. Replacing more than one sensor will double your expenses.
- Accessibility: In some vehicles, the sensor is fixed at the top of the engine, making it easily accessible. However, in others, it’s located near the intake manifold, which makes for a more complex repair and increases labor costs.
- Quality of parts: You can install an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or an aftermarket sensor. Typically, OEM sensors are pricier due to their high quality but last longer than the aftermarket ones.
- Extra repairs: Along with the sensor, you might also need to replace parts of the fuel pump assembly, such as the pressure regulator, filter, and pump. Installing the fuel pump alone will cost around $1,100 to $1,300.
Is It Worth Replacing the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor?
Certainly!
Without the fuel rail pressure sensor, the engine control unit (ECU) can’t adjust fuel delivery, disrupting the air-fuel ratio needed for efficient combustion. This imbalance can cause the engine to run lean or rich, leading to issues over time.
Eventually, you may have trouble starting or running your car for long periods. So, it’s important to replace a bad fuel pressure sensor when you notice the warning signs.
6 Critical Signs You Need to Replace a Faulty Sensor
Watch out for these red flags that signal a failing sensor:
- A lit check engine light with error codes P0087, P0191, P0193, or P0194
- Rough idling
- Sudden power loss
- Inconsistent or poor engine performance
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Excess fuel emissions
How Long Does a Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Last?
A fuel sensor is built to last your vehicle’s lifetime. However, it can wear out quickly if:
- It’s damaged due to extreme engine temperatures
- The gas or fuel rail is contaminated with dirt and grime
- You’re driving with a clogged fuel filter and a faulty fuel pump, which strains the sensor excessively
- It was physically damaged in an accident
- There’s a manufacturing defect
How to Test the Fuel Sensor to Detect a Fault
To test the sensor, you need access to a scan tool, a multimeter, and knowledge of different sensor wires. Additionally, you require technical expertise to identify sensor troubles, or you may misinterpret the readings.
To avoid any mistakes, it’s best to leave the diagnosis to a qualified mechanic.
Here’s a look at what they’ll do:
- Park the vehicle and turn the engine off.
- Find the fuel rail pressure sensor.
- Set the multimeter to direct current (DC) voltage setting to cover a range of 0V to 5V.
- Disconnect the sensor’s electrical connector.
- Connect the red probe to the power supply wire and the black probe to the car’s bare metal surface (ground).
- Check the voltage supply and ensure it’s around 5V.
- Disconnect the probes, then connect the black probe to the sensor’s ground wire and the red probe to your battery’s negative terminal.
- Check the battery voltage and verify it’s around 12V.
- Disconnect the probes once again.
- Reattach the electrical connector and start your engine.
- With the engine running, connect the red probe to the signal wire and the black probe to the ground. As the engine revs, they should see a figure between 0V and 5V DC. If the readings aren’t as per the recommended numbers, the sensor is faulty.
Should You Replace the Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Yourself?
No, you shouldn’t.
Swapping out the fuel rail sensor isn’t easy. It requires opening the car’s hood and handling engine bay components. For a successful replacement, you should visit a car repair shop or call a mobile mechanic.
To give you an overview, here are the key steps of the replacement process:
- Disconnect the car battery.
- Depressurize the fuel system.
- Remove the engine cover and find the Schrader valve on the fuel rail. This valve looks similar to the one on a bicycle tire.
- Remove the fuel rail’s wiring harness.
- Wipe the rail with a soft cloth and install the new sensor.
- Reconnect the battery and check for fuel leaks.
- Use an OBD2 scanner to clear the fault codes and reset the sensor.
- Test drive the vehicle.
How to Prevent the Fuel Pressure Sensor From Failing
Your fuel pressure sensor can last long if you:
- Schedule fuel system checks every 30,000 miles.
- Get the fuel filter replaced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
- Add high-quality, compatible fuel to your car.
- Address fuel rail pressure sensor issues promptly.
Resolve Fuel Pressure Sensor Issues with AutoNation Mobile Service
Right fuel rail pressure is essential for the engine to run smoothly and efficiently. But if you have a faulty fuel pressure sensor, you’ll see a lit check engine light and face trouble while driving.
In such situations, it’s best to visit a mechanic for a sensor replacement. And if you can’t drive to a repair shop, call AutoNation Mobile Service.
Our technicians can quickly identify a faulty old sensor and replace it right from your driveway.
What’s more?
For your peace of mind, we provide upfront pricing and a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on all services.
Get in touch with us for a speedy and hassle-free sensor replacement.