Fuel Injection Service

Your fuel injection system monitors and regulates the fuel provided to your vehicle’s engine when you press the gas pedal. Unlike older carburetor-driven fuel systems, a fuel injection system is electrically controlled. When properly maintained, your fuel injection system ensures the correct air and fuel ratio is delivered to your engine for optimal performance and longevity.

The importance of regular fuel injection service

As your vehicle burns fuel, it produces carbon. This residual carbon builds up and forms a layer on your fuel injector and system. This build-up decreases the fuel injector system performance by causing the engine to work harder. A fuel injection service flushes away the carbon build-up, so your vehicle is once again operating optimally. It also removes other dirt and varnish that have accumulated in your fuel system, so they do not damage your engine. After receiving a fuel injection service, your car should handle better and accelerate more smoothly. You may also notice an increase in fuel efficiency, saving you money each time you fill your tank. In addition to restoring your vehicle’s performance, a fuel injection service protects your engine, improves your car's longevity, and reduces your vehicle’s emissions. If your vehicle is under warranty, completing a timely scheduled fuel injection service may also be a condition of that warranty.

How often to get fuel injection service

Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for the recommended fuel injection service frequency for your vehicle. Some vehicles should be serviced starting at 50,000 kilometers (31,000 miles). However, newer vehicles typically will not need their first fuel injection service until 96,500 kilometers (60,000 miles). Service is generally recommended every 96,500 to 145,000 kilometers (60,000 to 90,000 miles).

Conditions that affect fuel injection service frequency

Your driving habits and fuel choices can also impact your vehicle’s need for fuel injection cleaning. Carbon build-up occurs more often with frequent short trips lasting 15 minutes or less rather than long commutes. Low-quality fuel can also cause your fuel injectors to clog more quickly than a higher-quality fuel that is formulated to discourage build-up. If you drive short distances with low-quality fuel, pay extra attention to your vehicle’s performance. Schedule a fuel injection service if that performance degrades.

How to tell if your vehicle needs a fuel injection service

Aside from the standard recommended service intervals, you should consider bringing your car in for a fuel injection cleaning if you notice the following signs of clogged injectors:

• Decreased fuel economy
• Rough idle
• Poor acceleration
• Poor overall performance
• Stalling
• Darker, thicker, smellier exhaust fumes

How long it takes for a fuel injection service

There are several types of fuel injection services. Expect a standard in-vehicle fuel injection service to take roughly an hour. If your fuel injectors are particularly clogged, the mechanic will remove the injectors from the vehicle for deep cleaning or possible replacement. In this case, expect the service to take at least several hours.

What is included in a fuel injection service?

During a fuel injection system service, our mechanics will first inspect your fuel system looking for any leaks or damage. They will clean the air intake valves and fuel rail. The fuel injector screen, the injector valves, and nozzles, and the throttle valve will all be flushed and cleaned with a pressurized cleaner that removes carbon residue. Following cleaning, the mechanic will pressure test the system and check the computer’s air-fuel mixture and sensors. An emissions test can confirm the fuel injection system is functioning properly post-service.