Replacing Fuel Injectors: 1999 Acura Step-By-Step Guide

Fuel injectors are an essential component of a car's fuel system, and while they rarely need replacing, there are instances when it becomes necessary. This article will discuss the steps involved in changing the fuel injector on a 1999 Acura, a popular vehicle model that has been in production for several years. It is important to note that fuel injectors should only be replaced when there is a definite problem or reason to believe they are faulty. Regular maintenance and cleaning are often sufficient to keep them functioning optimally.

Fuel injector location

The fuel pump in a 1999 Acura RL is located under the rear passenger seat. To access the fuel pump, you will need to remove the trunk spare tire cover to get to the access panel right behind the center of the rear seat.

The fuel injectors are located in the engine, connected to the fuel pump. The exact location of the fuel injectors will depend on the specific Acura model and engine configuration.

For the 1999 Acura RL, the fuel injectors are located in the fuel rail, which is mounted on the intake manifold. The intake manifold will need to be removed to access and replace the fuel injectors.

It is important to note that fuel injectors do not typically need to be replaced unless there is a definite problem or reason to believe they are faulty. Regular cleaning with a good quality fuel system cleaner is usually sufficient to maintain fuel injector performance.

Fuel pump location

The fuel pump in a 1999 Acura is located in the trunk, under the trunk carpet, all the way back by the rear seat. To access the pump, you will need to remove the trunk spare tire cover and the rear seat. The fuel pump is located on the passenger side, behind an oblong cover on the wire harness.

Before starting work on the fuel system, it is important to relieve the fuel pressure and ensure that the engine is off. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid smoking and keep open flames away from the work area.

The process of replacing the fuel pump involves the following steps:

• Loosen the fuel system service bolt to relieve fuel pressure.
• Remove the rear seats and the maintenance access cover beneath the rear seat bottom cushion.
• Disconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector.
• Remove the fuel pump mounting nuts.
• Take out the fuel pump from the tank.
• Reinstall the new fuel pump and reconnect the fuel lines and electrical connector.
• Torque the pump mounting nuts and the banjo bolt to the specified values.

It is worth noting that most fuel pump issues are related to electrical connectors or relays, so it is recommended to check the PGM-FI Main Fuel Relay before replacing the pump.

Fuel injector maintenance

Fuel injectors are responsible for pressurising and pumping fuel through an electronically controlled opening that sprays the fuel into the cylinder, allowing the fuel to burn more efficiently and evenly. Over time, burning fuel leaves carbon deposits that build up on the fuel injectors, hindering your vehicle's performance and lowering its power and mileage. This layer of buildup can be removed through fuel injector cleaning services, which are recommended after every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.

Signs that Your Fuel Injectors Need Cleaning or Replacing:

• A sharp decline in fuel economy
• Lack of power in your car
• A sluggish feeling when you accelerate
• Poor overall performance
• Cylinders misfiring
• The "check engine" light turning on frequently
• Your vehicle stalling or not starting with a full tank of gas

Cleaning Your Fuel Injectors:

It is recommended to clean your fuel injectors about once a year. Fuel injector cleaning kits are simple to use and affordable. Here are the general steps to clean your fuel injectors:

• Purchase a fuel injector cleaning kit with a PEA cleaning fluid suitable for your vehicle type.
• Disconnect the fuel pump from the fuel injectors and connect the fuel return line to the fuel pump to return the gas to the tank during cleaning.
• If your vehicle has a pressure regulator vacuum line, disconnect it.
• Connect the cleaning kit to the fuel port, ensuring the hose and fitting are attached properly.
• Remove the cap from the fuel tank to prevent pressure buildup.
• Turn on the vehicle to let the cleaning fluid into the injectors. The engine will stop running once the cleaning fluid is used up.
• Remove the cleaning kit and reattach the pump and injectors.
• Turn on the vehicle again to test if the fuel injectors are working properly.

When to Get a Professional Fuel Injector Cleaning or Replacement:

If you are unable to perform yearly cleanings, it is important to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for a professional fuel injector cleaning or replacement to prevent problems with your engine that can be costly in the future. Contact local repair shops for price estimates.

Fuel injector replacement

Overview

This guide will take you through the process of replacing the fuel injectors on a 1999 Acura. Fuel injectors are an important part of your engine, delivering fuel to the engine, so it's important to keep them well-maintained.

When to Replace Fuel Injectors

You may need to replace your fuel injectors if you are experiencing problems with your engine, such as difficulty starting, stalling, excessive vibration while driving, or rough slow-speed cruising. It is recommended to replace your fuel injectors every 5 years/50,000 miles, but you may need to do this sooner if you are experiencing any issues.

Parts and Tools

Before you begin, you will need to purchase the following parts:

• Fuel injectors (either original or aftermarket)
• Fuel injector O-rings
• Fuel injector seal kit
• Fuel pressure regulator kit
• Fuel injection pressure regulator

You will also need various tools, including a digital ohm meter and a wrench.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary parts and tools and that you are wearing appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.

Step 2: Locate the fuel injectors. For a 1999 Acura, the fuel injectors are located behind the center of the rear seat.

Step 3: Access the fuel injectors by removing the trunk spare tire cover and the access panel.

Step 4: Once you have accessed the fuel injectors, use a wrench to remove them, taking care to catch any fuel that may spill.

Step 5: Install the new fuel injectors, ensuring that they are seated properly and all seals and O-rings are in good condition.

Step 6: Reassemble the access panel and trunk spare tire cover.

Step 7: Test the new fuel injectors by starting the car and checking for any leaks or issues.

Tips and Troubleshooting

It is recommended to run a good quality fuel system cleaner through your fuel injectors regularly to help maintain them and prevent the need for early replacement. If you are experiencing issues with your fuel injectors, it is also worth checking other components, such as the spark plugs and coils, as these can also cause similar issues.

Fuel injector O-rings

To change the fuel injector O-rings on a 1999 Acura, you will need to purchase replacement O-rings. These can be bought online or from an auto parts store. It is important to get the right O-rings for your specific vehicle, so be sure to check your owner's manual or consult a mechanic if you are unsure.

Once you have the new O-rings, follow these steps:

• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
• Relieve the fuel pressure by holding the banjo bolt on top of the fuel filter with an 18mm wrench and loosening the top bolt (service bolt) one turn with a 12mm wrench. Fuel will seep out, so have rags ready to catch it.
• Remove the fuel injector electrical connections. There will be a square metal clip around the bottom of each connector that holds it in place. Use a pointed needle tool to carefully remove the clip and move it up onto the connector itself. Then, pull the connector off.
• Remove the fuel lines from the fuel rail using a 17mm socket. Again, fuel will come out, so have towels ready.
• Remove the 10mm bolts holding the fuel lines in place to create more room to work.
• Remove the two 10mm nuts on each fuel rail and lift the fuel rails out.
• Pull out the fuel injectors by hand. The seal ring and insulator may remain in the hole, so use your fingers or a pair of pliers to remove them.
• Clean and dry each injector and port to remove any built-up dirt or debris. You can use brake cleaner for this step.
• Replace the O-rings on the fuel injectors. Coat the new O-rings with a small amount of motor oil to help them slide into the fuel rail more easily.
• Coat the seal ring with oil and place it on top of the injector insulator inside the fuel injector port.
• Push the injectors into the fuel rail, ensuring that the tabs on the injectors align with those on the rail.
• Slide the fuel rail and injectors back into place and secure them with the bolts.
• Reattach the fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, and injector connectors.
• Reconnect the battery.

It is important to be cautious when working with fuel and to have plenty of rags or towels on hand to catch any fuel that may seep out during the process. If you are unsure about any steps or feel uncomfortable performing the repair, it is always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Frequently asked questions