Replacing Fuel Injectors In Chevy Equinox: Step-By-Step Guide

If you're experiencing issues with your Chevy Equinox's fuel injector, you may need to replace it. 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 play a crucial role in pulverizing fuel so that it can combust correctly inside the cylinders. Common signs that your fuel injector needs replacement include rough idle, loss of power, misfiring, odour of raw gas or visible leaks, and a check engine light due to a faulty solenoid. The cost of replacing a fuel injector can vary depending on the model year and engine size of your Chevy Equinox, ranging from $1342 to $6795 for parts and labour. It's important to address fuel injector issues promptly to avoid safety hazards and ensure optimal fuel efficiency and engine performance.

Fuel injector broken tip

If the tip of a fuel injector in your Chevy Equinox breaks off, you will need to remove the broken piece before installing a new injector. This can be done using an easy-out to grip the injector tip, and then a vise grip slide hammer to yank it out. If the screw extractor is too short, you may need to extend it or weld a rod to the end.

Once the broken injector tip is removed, you can proceed to replace the fuel injector. This will involve relieving the pressure in the fuel rail, removing the upper plenum, cables, hoses, and wiring, and then taking out the supply and return lines from the fuel rail. Next, remove the electrical connectors to the fuel injectors and unbolt the fuel rail from the intake manifold. Take out the broken injector, being careful not to let any debris fall into the exposed openings.

When inserting the new injector, use a new O-ring and apply engine oil to prevent damage to the O-ring. Reinstall the fuel rail, supply and return lines, plenum, cables, hoses, and wiring. Finally, run the engine and check for leaks.

The average cost for a Chevrolet Equinox fuel injector replacement is $683, with $431 for parts and $252 for labor.

Injector electrical problems

• Check Engine Light: A faulty solenoid in the fuel injector may trigger a trouble code, illuminating the check engine light. This issue can be diagnosed by reading the trouble codes and testing the fuel injector directly.
• Engine Noise and Performance Issues: In some cases, faulty fuel injectors can cause loud engine noise, especially at low speeds. This may be accompanied by decreased gas mileage and power. However, it is important to note that these issues can also be caused by other components, such as the timing chain.
• Electrical Connector Issues: Fuel injector electrical connectors can become corroded, damaged, or disconnected over time. This can disrupt the power supply to the injectors, affecting their performance. It is important to inspect and maintain these connectors to ensure proper electrical connectivity.
• Fuel Injection Rail Problems: The fuel injection rail, which supplies fuel to the injectors, can also experience electrical problems. This may include faulty wiring, connectors, or other components associated with the rail.
• Internal Wiring Issues: In some cases, internal wiring issues within the injector harness or engine harness have been reported. This can lead to intermittent engine problems, misfires, and trouble codes related to the fuel injection system.

To diagnose and address electrical problems with fuel injectors, it is recommended to refer to a qualified mechanic or automotive technician. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to identify and rectify the specific electrical issues affecting your Chevy Equinox's fuel injection system.

Relieving fuel rail pressure

To relieve fuel rail pressure on a Chevy Equinox, you can release the fuel cap and the Schrader valve cover. If your Chevy Equinox has a fuel rail Schrader valve, it is likely located on the fuel rail itself. On the small cars (Cobalt, G6, Impala), if it has the 4-cylinder Ecotec, it's located at the end of the fuel rail, just above the #4 injector. You may need to remove the engine beauty cover, but on the 2009 G6, for example, the service port is visible without removing anything. If your vehicle does not have a Schrader valve, you can install an in-line test port by disconnecting the fuel line at the nearest coupling and installing an adapter.

If you are experiencing issues with your fuel injectors, it is important to relieve the fuel rail pressure before attempting any repairs or replacements. This will help ensure your safety and prevent any accidental spills or injuries. Always refer to your vehicle's manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any procedures.

In addition to relieving fuel rail pressure, it is important to also consider other factors that may be contributing to the issue. For example, checking the fuel pressure and replacing the fuel rail if necessary can help resolve issues with the fuel injectors.To relieve fuel rail pressure on a Chevy Equinox, you can release the fuel cap and the Schrader valve cover. If your Chevy Equinox has a fuel rail Schrader valve, it is likely located on the fuel rail itself. On the small cars (Cobalt, G6, Impala), if it has the 4-cylinder Ecotec, it's located at the end of the fuel rail, just above the #4 injector. You may need to remove the engine beauty cover, but on the 2009 G6, for example, the service port is visible without removing anything. If your vehicle does not have a Schrader valve, you can install an in-line test port by disconnecting the fuel line at the nearest coupling and installing an adapter.

If you are experiencing issues with your fuel injectors, it is important to relieve the fuel rail pressure before attempting any repairs or replacements. This will help ensure your safety and prevent any accidental spills or injuries. Always refer to your vehicle's manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any procedures.

In addition to relieving fuel rail pressure, it is important to also consider other factors that may be contributing to the issue. For example, checking the fuel pressure and replacing the fuel rail if necessary can help resolve issues with the fuel injectors.

O-ring replacement

To replace the O-rings on your Chevy Equinox's fuel injectors, you'll first need to purchase a suitable replacement kit. You can find these at automotive stores or online. When purchasing, ensure the kit is compatible with your Equinox's make and model.

Once you have the correct kit, follow these steps:

• Remove the fuel pump fuse or disconnect the battery to prevent accidental ignition.
• Locate the fuel injectors. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual if needed.
• Using appropriate tools, carefully remove the old O-rings from the fuel injectors. Take note of their positioning and orientation to ensure correct installation of the new O-rings.
• Clean the area around the fuel injectors, ensuring no dirt or debris enters the engine.
• Take the new O-rings from the kit and refer to the kit's instructions to ensure they are fitted correctly.
• Install the new O-rings onto the fuel injectors, ensuring they are securely seated and aligned correctly.
• Reassemble the fuel injector assembly, following the reverse of the removal procedure.
• Re-connect the battery or insert the fuel pump fuse.
• Start the engine and check for any leaks around the fuel injectors.

It is important to work carefully and methodically when performing this task, as incorrect installation can lead to fuel leaks, which are dangerous. If you are unsure about any steps, consult a qualified mechanic.

Additionally, it is recommended to replace the O-rings each time the fuel injectors are removed for service. This helps ensure a secure and leak-free connection.

Fuel injector cleaning

Fuel injectors regulate the amount of pressurised fuel used for each engine cycle. There is one injector per cylinder in an engine. Fuel injectors should be replaced when there is a rough idle, loss of power, or misfiring. They should also be replaced if there is an odour of raw gas or visible leaks, or if the check engine light is on.

To replace a fuel injector, the following steps should be taken:

• Relieve the pressure within the fuel rail by briefly running the engine with the fuel pump fuse out.
• Remove the upper plenum on the intake manifold, along with any cables, hoses, or wiring that restricts access.
• Remove the supply and return lines from the fuel rail.
• Unlock and remove the electrical connectors to each fuel injector.
• Unbolt and remove the fuel rail from the intake manifold.
• Remove the injector(s) requiring replacement from the fuel rail, being careful not to allow any debris to enter the exposed openings.
• Re-insert the serviced or replaced injector into the fuel rail, using a new O-ring and engine oil on the O-ring to prevent damage.
• Re-install the fuel rail and reconnect the supply and return lines.
• Re-install the plenum and all cables, hoses, or wiring.
• Run the engine and check for leaks.

It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with a fuel injector problem, as it can cause unpredictable acceleration and stalling.

To prolong the life of fuel injectors, it is recommended to clean the fuel delivery system and injectors regularly. This can be done at home or by a professional service. A fuel injection cleaning service typically involves attaching a high-pressure cleaning solution to the fuel system at the engine and running the engine exclusively on the cleaning solution to break down carbon, grime, and debris build-up on the fuel injectors. This process also washes any deposits from the rest of the fuel system. It is recommended to have this service performed every 12 months or 15,000 miles.

Frequently asked questions