Your engine might not work as you would like for some causes. One that you might not have thought of is a worn-out or fuel injector failure; experts often talk about this problem with their clients. Perhaps among the biggest developments in vehicle technology to date is the fuel injector. Although they are essential to the normal functioning of your vehicle, the majority of drivers fail to give fuel injector repair any consideration because they seem so much more efficient compared to an outdated carburettor system. You might not think that your fuel injectors might play a factor in engine issues. But contrary to popular belief, fuel injection system issues are much more prevalent and could have a significant negative effect on your engine’s performance.

Why do Injectors for Common Rails Fail?

Typical reasons for injector failure consist of:

Contamination by Particles: 

Particulate matter, which can often be unnoticeable to the human eye, possesses the capacity to reach the filter system & weaken parts such as the nozzle assembly and the control valve. This impacts the injector’s capacity to accurately measure gasoline, which in turn influences when & how much fuel is distributed into the engine cylinder.

Water Contamination: 

Too much water in the fuel may shorten the life of key parts by corroding metal surfaces, clogging filters, and reducing the fuel’s lubricating qualities. Additionally, it may promote the spread of the diesel bug that damages components by attacking the fuel.

Heat Soak: 

The remaining heat from the engine will lead the fuel in the injector to “bake” onto it. These buildups have the potential to accumulate over long periods and clog the fuel injectors, interfering with injection timing and volume.

Improper Installation: 

Issues like misaligned torque or improperly seated sealing rings may result in needless wear.

Solenoid Failure: 

The solenoid may become destroyed by water intrusion, a short circuit caused by a malfunctioning ECU, or broken wiring looms. Due to their high vibration sensitivity, piezo crystals can become damaged or mishandled, which can lead to problems.

Engine Blow-By: 

Usually, a car’s PVC system would prevent any blow-by. Nevertheless, the fuel & oil residue could also clog the injectors if this isn’t working properly and/or the filter doesn’t catch it.

Fuel Injector that is Broken or Leaking: 

Occasionally, the nozzle and/or capnut may break or crack. Additionally, heat from the engine might cause the o-rings to fracture and become brittle. This can lead to an injector leak as well as hinder the flow of the fuel-air mixture to the engine.

ECU Malfunction: 

If the ECU of the car isn’t working well, the fuel injectors won’t be able to combine the fuel and air correctly or get it to the combustion chamber. Although not directly linked to the injector, yet can result in comparable problems. In certain cases, the ECU’s injector drive circuit may malfunction & result in a short to ground, harming the injector solenoid.

Common Signs Of Fuel Injector Failure

There are multiple indicators that a typical fuel injector is malfunctioning or soon will. The signs and symptoms listed below might appear alone or in combination with additional indicators, which makes it more difficult to pinpoint the underlying issue.

The Car Does Not Start 

A frequent root cause of difficulty in igniting diesel engines may be common fuel injectors.

Black Smoke

On standard trucks, rolling coal is a common application. However, excessive amounts of black smoke emanating from your car isn’t a good thing. 

Smoke

One of the most typical signs of a malfunctioning or broken fuel injector is additional smoke. Although smoke is normally produced by internal combustion engines, particularly diesel engines, be aware of a smoke rise.

Light Misting

When opened, fuel injectors are designed to produce a fine mist. Although it greatly improves the effectiveness of combustion, fuel leaks out of a blocked fuel injector slowly.

Clogged Diesel Particulate Filters 

An excessive amount of fuel may enter the combustion chamber as a result of typical fuel injector failure. Fuel that hasn’t ignited will be released during the exhaust stroke & most likely block the DPF filters.

How Can Common Fuel Injector Problems Be Solved?

Selecting high-quality fuel is the finest thing an owner can do to avoid typical fuel injector issues. Because not all fuel is made equal, aiming to cut down on a few bucks by stopping at a less expensive petrol station may ultimately end up costing you more in the long run. Another thing which could end up causing serious damage to fuel injectors is working circumstances. Although diesel engines are designed to be more resilient than petrol engines, they nevertheless require regular upkeep to ensure their longevity.

Lastly, until it’s too late, condensation presents a problem that the majority of individuals do not take very seriously. Your fuel tank’s space produces moisture when the diesel within warms up, which seeps into the injectors & causes issues. Your filter might need to be emptied to assist with this.

Final Words

There’s nothing to be done but replace any broken or damaged fuel injectors with new ones. You should not instantly think that your fuel injectors are broken or need to be replaced, though, if they aren’t working properly. These could be obstructed by filth and debris. Also read: How to Reduce Vehicle Emissions: 7 Possible Solutions