Celica Fuel Injector Replacement: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're experiencing problems with your 2001 Toyota Celica, you may need to replace the fuel injector. Fuel injectors regulate the amount of pressurised fuel used for each engine cycle, and there is one injector per cylinder in an engine. A faulty fuel injector can cause engine power reduction, engine misfires, and the check engine light to turn on. It can also cause the engine to stall immediately after starting, fail to start, hesitate under throttle, or vibrate roughly.

While it is not recommended to replace the fuel injector yourself, as it can be a complicated process, you can find step-by-step instructions online. The cost of a fuel injector replacement for a Toyota Celica ranges from $1,082 to $1,213, with labour costs estimated between $109 and $137, and parts priced between $973 and $1,076.

Symptoms of a bad fuel injector

Fuel injectors can go the lifespan of a modern vehicle with little to no trouble. However, they are one of the more common issues that can occur in any vehicle, including the Toyota Celica. There are two main ways that your injectors can fail to do their job properly: they become clogged, dirty, or unresponsive, or they start leaking.

Clogged, Dirty, or Unresponsive Injectors

When injectors are clogged, dirty, or unresponsive, not enough fuel enters the combustion chamber. This can cause the following issues:

• Rough idle: The injectors are not providing a consistent flow of fuel, causing the engine to operate unevenly.
• Poor fuel economy: The PCM (powertrain control module) adjusts the air/fuel ratio and timing for optimal combustion. When injectors aren’t functioning properly, the ratio is off, and fuel mileage suffers.
• Misfires and loss of power: Bad fuel injectors can cause misfires due to an incorrect air-fuel ratio, leading to a loss in power and acceleration.
• Difficulty starting: Clogged or damaged injectors may not provide enough fuel to start the engine.
• Poor acceleration: The engine experiences poor acceleration if the injectors are not providing the proper amount of fuel for combustion, resulting in sluggish performance.

Leaking Injectors

Leaking injectors can cause the following issues:

• Unusual exhaust smell: Excess or unburned fuel may be released through the exhaust system, creating an unusual smell.
• Bad fuel odor: A strong fuel odour may be noticeable inside and outside the vehicle.
• Engine stalling: Stalling can occur, particularly when idling. In severe cases, the engine may not run at all.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of a bad fuel injector include:

• Check engine light: The "check engine" warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
• Vibrating engine: The engine vibrates roughly.
• Dark grey smoke: Dark grey smoke is visible upon starting the vehicle.
• High oil levels: Unusually high oil levels are observed.
• Strong gasoline smell: There is a strong smell of gasoline in the oil.

How to access the fuel injectors

To access the fuel injectors of a 2001 Toyota Celica, you will need to remove the intake manifold. This can be a large job that may involve draining the coolant and oil, removing many engine components, and replacing the intake manifold gasket.

Some cars, however, are designed with plastic intake manifolds that do not have oil or coolant passages, making this process easier. Once the intake manifold is removed, you will be able to see the fuel injectors and can proceed with the replacement.

• Take off the plastic engine cover.
• Remove the fuel rail.
• Unplug the injector and pull it out.

The injector seals itself by compressing an o-ring into the housing, and the fuel rail holds the injectors in place.

Fuel injector removal

However, if you are a professional or are determined to do it yourself, here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove a fuel injector from a 2001 Toyota Celica:

• Disconnect the battery: When working with fuel, always disconnect the battery and take proper precautions against fire.
• Remove the intake manifold: Typically, the intake manifold must be removed to access and replace the fuel injectors. This can be a large job that may involve draining the coolant and oil and removing many engine components, including the fuel rail and electrical connector. Some cars, however, are designed with plastic intake manifolds that do not have oil or coolant passages, making this process easier.
• Remove the fuel injector: Once you have access, simply disconnect the fuel injector from the fuel rail and electrical connector and remove it.
• Replace with a new fuel injector: It is recommended to use high-quality, OEM parts when replacing fuel injectors. Keeping the injectors the same will ensure even power across the engine and a proper air-fuel mixture for all cylinders, resulting in smooth running.
• Reassemble the components: Carefully put back all the components you removed, making sure everything is securely connected.
• Test the vehicle: Start the engine and check for any leaks or issues.

Symptoms of a bad fuel injector include acceleration problems, decreasing power, engine misfires, a check engine light turning on, and a strong fuel odour inside the vehicle. If you experience any of these issues, it is best to have your fuel injectors checked and replaced if necessary.

Fuel injector installation

Disclaimer: This is not a DIY job. Fuel injector replacement should be left to a professional. The risk of fire is enough by itself, but this repair can also get very complicated. A good amount of knowledge goes into removing the injectors, intake manifold, fuel rail and other components, and if done wrong, it can further damage your vehicle.

Now, to install a fuel injector, you will first need to access the fuel injectors. Typically, this will involve removing the intake manifold. This can be a large job that may involve draining the coolant and oil, removing many engine components, and replacing the intake manifold gasket. However, some cars are designed with plastic intake manifolds that do not have oil or coolant passages, making this process easier.

Once you have access to the fuel injectors, the process of installing the new fuel injector is as follows:

• Disconnect the old fuel injector from the fuel rail and electrical connector and remove it.
• Install the new fuel injector in the same way, connecting it to the fuel rail and electrical connector.
• Ensure that the new fuel injector is securely in place and that all connections are correct.
• Reassemble the engine and intake manifold if removed.
• Refill the engine with coolant and oil if drained.

It is recommended to use high-quality, OEM parts when replacing fuel injectors. Keeping the injectors the same will ensure even power across the engine and a proper air-fuel mixture for all cylinders, resulting in smooth running. Additionally, always replace the fuel filter when replacing a fuel injector.

It is also important to note that fuel injector replacement can be dangerous, as it involves working with fuel. Proper precautions should be taken against fire, and the battery should always be disconnected when working on the fuel system.

Fuel injector replacement parts

When it comes to replacing the fuel injectors on your 2001 Toyota Celica, it's important to source high-quality replacement parts to ensure reliable performance and fuel efficiency. Here are some recommended replacement parts and suppliers to consider:

GB Remanufacturing Multi-Port Fuel Injector:

This is an affordable alternative to a new OEM injector and meets or exceeds OE quality standards. It is designed as an exact OEM replacement part, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance.

Standard Intermotor Fuel Injector:

The Intermotor Fuel Injector by Standard is designed as a direct-fit replacement for your worn-out or malfunctioning fuel injector. It promises to deliver trouble-free and consistent performance, making it a reliable choice for your vehicle.

ACDelco Professional Fuel Injector:

ACDelco's Professional Fuel Injector is another excellent option for restoring your vehicle's fuel system to its top shape. It is designed as a direct-fit replacement and will deliver consistent, trouble-free performance.

Injector Dynamics Fuel Injectors:

If you're looking for an upgrade, Injector Dynamics offers high-performance fuel injectors that maximize your vehicle's fuel system efficiency. Their ID1300X, ID1050x, and ID1700x fuel injectors are designed in collaboration with Bosch Motorsport, ensuring top-grade quality.

DeatschWerks Fuel Injectors:

DeatschWerks fuel injectors are known for their reliable and efficient performance. Each set of injectors is flow-matched and balanced, ensuring improved fuel flow and optimal driving experience.

Original Equipment Fuel Injector:

If you're looking for a perfect replacement for your damaged or worn-out original injector, the Original Equipment Fuel Injector is a great choice. These injectors are manufactured to meet OE requirements, ensuring an exact OE fit and optimal performance.

Carquest Premium Remanufactured Fuel Injector:

Carquest Premium offers remanufactured fuel injectors that undergo a rigorous 15-step process in a state-of-the-art facility. Each injector is 100% tested to meet or exceed OE specifications and includes new O-rings and seals made of premium materials.

Aisan Fuel Injector:

Aisan fuel injectors are manufactured to meet OE requirements and provide an exact OE fit. They utilize premium internal components and are compatible with alternative fuels or fuel blends, including ethanol mixtures.

When choosing replacement parts, always opt for trusted brands and ensure the parts are compatible with your vehicle's specific model and year. Additionally, consider the quality, durability, and ease of installation offered by each supplier.

Frequently asked questions