Replacing Fuel Injectors In Your Transit Connect: Step-By-Step Guide

Fuel injectors are a crucial component of a car's engine, spraying atomized fuel droplets into the engine's intake manifold or combustion chamber. Replacing a fuel injector on a Ford Transit Connect can cost around $150, with $10 for parts and $140 for labour. The process involves relieving the pressure in the fuel rail, removing the upper plenum and any obstructing cables, hoses, or wiring, and then removing and replacing the fuel injector before reinstalling the fuel rail and other components. This procedure can be done by a mechanic or by following online guides and video tutorials.

When to replace fuel injectors

Fuel injectors are fuel metering devices that spray atomized droplets of fuel into the engine's intake manifold or directly into the combustion chamber. They are usually connected to a fuel rail located on top of the engine and supplied with fuel under pressure from the fuel pump in the fuel tank.

• Rough idle, loss of power, or misfiring: Poor engine operation can have many causes, but faults in the fuel injection system, including the fuel injectors, are often to blame.
• Odor of raw gas or visible leaks: Fuel injectors should not leak fuel into the intake manifold when the car is off. If you notice any fuel odour around your car, suspect a leaking fuel injector.
• Check engine light: Some fuel injection failures, such as a faulty solenoid, may cause a trouble code to be set in the PCM, which will turn on the check engine light.
• Major engine repairs, engine replacement, or lengthy storage: All fuel injectors will develop deposits over time and with mileage. These deposits can cause an imbalance in the performance of the injectors from cylinder to cylinder. When the engine is already disassembled, or if you are installing a new one, it is a good time to service or replace the injectors as a set.

It is important to note that driving with a malfunctioning injector can be safe as long as there is no external leak of fuel. However, it can lead to engine misfires, excessive emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Signs of a faulty fuel injector

A fuel injector is a fuel metering device that sprays atomized droplets of fuel in a specific pattern into the engine’s intake manifold or directly into the combustion chamber. Here are some signs that could indicate a faulty fuel injector:

• Engine Misfires: A faulty fuel injector can cause the engine to misfire, making the motor feel like it is sputtering and sending vibrations through the car.
• Rough Idling: If your vehicle sputters and shakes when you're at a stop sign or sitting in traffic, it could be a sign of a faulty fuel injector. Rough idling is typically characterised by varying revolutions per minute (RPMs), even when your foot is off the gas pedal.
• Poor Gas Mileage: Well-performing fuel injectors help your vehicle achieve optimal gas mileage. Lousy gas mileage could be a sign that something is wrong with your fuel injectors.
• Unstable RPM Needle: Dirty fuel injectors can cause the needle on the tachometer (RPM gauge) to move unpredictably, indicating changes in RPM when your car isn't switching gears.
• Engine Won't Start: Fuel injectors deliver fuel to the cylinders, and when this job isn't done, the engine won't receive the necessary air-fuel mixture to operate. In some cases, this can lead to engine failure and your car won't start.
• Check Engine Light Illuminated: The check engine light on your dashboard could indicate a dirty or malfunctioning fuel injector, which is supplying too little or too much fuel to the engine, resulting in decreased performance and fuel economy.
• Fuel Leak: Over time, heat and moisture can cause cracks in the rubber seals or the fuel injector itself, leading to a fuel leak.

Fuel injector replacement cost

The cost of replacing fuel injectors will depend on several factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the severity of the issue, and your location.

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $900 for a fuel injector replacement, with parts and labour costs ranging from $150 to $400. However, some sources state that the cost can be as high as $2,500. Individual fuel injectors can cost under $40 each, while others are several hundred dollars apiece. For example, the cost of replacing all four fuel injectors on a 2019 Toyota Yaris was quoted at $2150+tax.

The cost of replacing the fuel injectors on a Ford Transit Connect ranges from $938.60 to $2551.26, with labour costs making up the majority of the cost.

It is worth noting that the price per injector and the number of injectors that need to be replaced will also affect the overall cost.

To save money on fuel injector replacement, you can compare prices and shop around for the best deal, consider purchasing refurbished or remanufactured fuel injectors, or perform the replacement yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and experience. However, it is important to remember that cutting corners on parts or labour can lead to bigger problems down the road, and improper installation can be costly.

Step-by-step replacement guides

Step 1: Prepare the engine

Make sure the engine is cold. Then, relieve the pressure within the fuel rail by briefly running the engine with the fuel pump fuse removed.

Step 2: Remove the upper plenum and any restricting cables, hoses, or wiring

Take off the upper plenum on the intake manifold, along with any cables, hoses, or wiring that may restrict access to the fuel rail and injectors.

Step 3: Disconnect the supply and return lines, electrical connectors, and fuel rail

Disconnect the supply and return lines from the fuel rail. Then, unlock and remove the electrical connectors to each fuel injector. Finally, unbolt and remove the fuel rail from the intake manifold.

Step 4: Remove the faulty injector and insert the new injector

Take out the injector requiring replacement from the fuel rail, being careful not to let any debris enter the exposed openings. Typically, an O-ring seal holds the injector firmly in place within the fuel rail. When inserting the new or serviced injector, use a new O-ring and apply engine oil to prevent damage to the O-ring.

Step 5: Reassemble and test

Reinstall the fuel rail, reconnect the supply and return lines, and reinstall the plenum along with all cables, hoses, or wiring. Finally, run the engine, carefully check for leaks, and take the vehicle for a road test.

Fuel injector repair vs replacement

Fuel Injector Repair vs. Replacement

Fuel injectors are a crucial component of your car's engine, and when they fail, it can cause a range of problems, including rough idling, loss of power, and engine misfires. So, what should you do if your fuel injectors are faulty? Should you repair them or replace them altogether? This guide will explore the pros and cons of each option and help you make an informed decision.

Repairing Fuel Injectors

Repairing fuel injectors can be a more cost-effective option, especially if the issue is minor. Servicing fuel injectors typically involves removing them from the car and using specialised cleaning and testing equipment to get them functioning properly again. This process can help remove any deposits that have built up over time and restore the injectors to their original condition. However, it's important to note that not all issues can be resolved through repair, and in some cases, replacement may be necessary.

Replacing Fuel Injectors

On the other hand, replacing fuel injectors involves installing brand new injectors in place of the old ones. This option can be more expensive, as you'll need to pay for the cost of the new parts and labour. However, it may be the best course of action if the injectors are severely damaged or worn out. Replacing the fuel injectors can help improve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of future problems. Additionally, if one injector fails, it's generally recommended to replace all of them at the same time to ensure a balanced injector set and smooth engine operation.

Factors to Consider

When deciding between repair and replacement, there are several factors to consider:

• Cost: Repairing fuel injectors is typically more affordable than replacing them, especially if multiple injectors need attention.
• Severity of the Issue: Minor issues, such as clogged injectors, can often be resolved through repair, while more serious problems may require replacement.
• Age and Condition: If your fuel injectors are old and heavily worn, it may be more prudent to replace them rather than repair.
• Convenience: Repairing fuel injectors can be a more time-consuming process, as specialised equipment and technical expertise are required. Replacement may be a faster option if you need to get your vehicle back on the road quickly.
• Performance: Replacing fuel injectors can lead to improved engine performance and fuel efficiency, especially if the old injectors were severely compromised.

The decision to repair or replace fuel injectors depends on various factors, including the nature of the problem, cost considerations, and the age and condition of the injectors. For minor issues, repairing may be a viable and cost-effective solution. However, for more serious problems or older injectors, replacement may be the best option to ensure optimal engine performance and avoid future issues. Ultimately, it's important to consult with a qualified mechanic who can properly diagnose the issue and provide professional advice tailored to your specific situation.

Frequently asked questions