Fuel remains in the gas tank until you turn your engine on. It is then pushed outward by an electronic fuel pump. The gas travels through the fuel line to a fuel filter, which is designed to catch debris and contaminants. This debris could potentially damage the fuel injectors as well as the engine itself. Once filtered, the gas moves to the injectors which spray the fuel in a precise pattern through the intake valves of each cylinder.

It\’s worth highlighting a few important notes. First, when you turn the engine off, there is residual gas in the fuel line. Much of it returns to the gas tank, which means it may be \”cleaned\” by the filter multiple times before eventually reaching the engine.

Second, filters often become clogged when they are not replaced for long periods of time. Clogging can prevent gas from reaching the engine. Given its low cost (usually less than $15), it\’s a good idea to replace the filter each time you change your oil.

Third, like all auto parts, fuel pumps can eventually fail. Although they typically last the life of a vehicle, rust and other contaminants can shorten their life.

Problems That Can Impair The Injectors

A lot of engine problems can be traced back to clogged injectors. For example, a lean misfire or hesitation during acceleration may imply insufficient fuel in the combustion chamber. So too may higher-than-normal emissions. Even a small obstruction in one of the nozzles can result in a persistent misfire. The key is to determine the reason the clog has occurred in the first place.

Fuel injectors can develop deposits over time. This occurs when heat coming from the engine after you turn it off \”bakes\” the residual gas sitting in the injectors\’ nozzles. This is often referred to as heat soak. Normally, it does not pose a significant problem since most fuels contain detergents to help minimize deposits. But if you limit your driving to short distances, they can build up more quickly. The detergents, while helpful, may not be enough.

Low-priced gasoline can also contribute to clogging. The reason is due to fewer detergents in the fuel. In order to keep prices low, suppliers often reduce the volume of detergents contained in their product. As a result, deposits are more likely to accumulate in the injectors\’ nozzles.

Cleaning The Fuel Injectors

You can clean your fuel injectors while they remain installed on your vehicle or by removing them. The former approach is easier and requires less time. It involves introducing a cleansing agent into the fuel line while your engine is running. The cleanser flows through the injectors, and helps to remove any deposits that have formed. The downside is that heavy deposits may resist the cleanser. Off-the-car cleaning is usually more effective, though the process takes longer and is more expensive.

Keeping Your Car Fuel System Clean

We mentioned earlier that replacing the fuel filter is important since clogs can prevent fuel from reaching your engine. It\’s worth noting that some filters are advertised as being able to last a lifetime. Don\’t believe it. Change your filter on a regular basis.

Also, avoid low-priced gasoline. As already noted, the lack of detergents can cause deposits to accumulate more quickly. Saving a few dollars at the pump may lead to spending hundreds of dollars for new fuel injectors down the road.

Lastly, if you notice that your engine has developed a misfire, stumble, or rough idle, have a mechanic take a look. The problem might involve one of the components in your fuel injection system.

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