Fuel injection is where the fuel gets introduced into an internal combustion engine. The fuel system is one of the most critical parts of a vehicle; the engine cannot function without fuel. Therefore, keeping it maintained and in excellent condition makes sense to run efficiently and effectively. Your vehicle is constantly put under stress while you’re on the road, and fuel injectors clog when deposits build up over time. Eventually, the fuel injectors stop delivering the gas efficiently, and you’ll notice a decrease in your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy.
How it works
Fuel injection cleaning works by keeping your engine from corrosion and helps clean the entire fuel system. It helps clean the whole fuel system from harmful carbon buildup that can severely damage your vehicle’s performance and degrade the engine over time. Fuel is required to contain detergents that prevent carbon deposits and other harmful materials from entering the fuel system; however, depending on the quality of fuel in your vehicle, you could need a more abrasive fuel injection cleaning. Auto repair shops typically clean the throttle body, add an additive to the fuel tank, and then run a cleaner through the intake manifold. This process helps clean the fuel injection system, lubricate valves and injectors, and remove deposits from the throttle body and engine intake manifold. This also leaves residual cleaner in the engine to reduce the long-term build-up in a catalytic convertor.
Why It’s Important
Routine maintenance does not usually include a fuel injection cleaning, but that does not mean it is not essential. Your fuel system is comprised of three main components: a fuel filter, a fuel pump, and fuel injectors. It is critical that these work as efficiently as possible to ensure that fuel travels from the tank to your engine’s fuel injectors and then combusts appropriately with the correct fuel/air mixture. It is critical to have your fuel system cleaned routinely because:
- Extends engine life
- Maximizes miles per gallon (MPG)
- Reduces wear and tear
- Improves performance
- Fights corrosion and rust
Keeping up to date with the maintenance of your vehicle and having your fuel system cleaned will significantly extend the life and performance of your vehicle. That is why it is so important to have your fuel system cleaned.
Repair Indicators
Cleaning your fuel injectors is a frequently recommended service by repair shops. Many auto repair shops recommend having a fuel system cleaning annually to prevent poor fuel economy, power loss, rough idle, knocking/pinging, and increased emissions. These symptoms are indicators of needed repair. If your vehicle is experiencing these issues, it may be time for a fuel injection cleaning.