How to Troubleshoot a Fuel Injection System

If your car isn't running efficiently, there are several things you can check. Here are some basic guidelines for troubleshooting your car's fuel injection system before bringing it to a garage. Cleaning dirty fuel injectors will result in next-to-new performance.

Instructions

1. If you are experiencing misfires, uneven idling, a decrease in power or hesitation, check if fuel deposits have accumulated in the fuel injectors. Detergents found in gasoline generally will keep the injectors free of dirt and build up. Short distance driving, however, may cause the deposits to accumulate quicker than they can be eliminated.

2. Remove any carbon deposits from the fuel injection system's intake valves and combustion chambers. This can be done with a cleaning product or equipment designed specifically for cleansing a vehicle's upper engine.

3. Unclog your vehicle's fuel injectors, particularly if you have an older vehicle that is more susceptible to emissions problems.

Tips & Warnings

• Call a mechanic if you can't pinpoint the source of your fuel injection system's problem.