Replacing Fuel Injectors In Your Dodge Dart: Step-By-Step Guide

Fuel injectors are an essential component of a car's fuel system, regulating the amount of pressurised fuel used for each engine cycle. When they fail, it can cause significant issues with engine performance, and even lead to engine failure. This guide will cover the process of replacing the fuel injectors in a Dodge Dart, a procedure that should be left to professionals due to the risk of fire and the complexity of the process. The average cost of this replacement is around $320, with parts costing $180 and labor costing $140.

When to know your fuel injectors need replacing

There are several signs that indicate your Dodge Dart's fuel injectors need replacing. Here are some key indicators to look out for:

• Rough idle, loss of power, or misfiring: Faults in the fuel injection system, including the fuel injectors, can result in poor engine operation. This can manifest as a rough idle, loss of power, or misfiring.
• Odor of raw fuel or visible leaks: If you notice a strong smell of gasoline or see traces of fuel around the injector, it may be leaking. Do not start your car if you suspect a leaking fuel injector due to the risk of fire.
• Check engine light: A faulty fuel injector may trigger a trouble code that illuminates the check engine light. A mechanic can use an OBD2 scanner to confirm the issue.
• Major engine repairs or lengthy storage: Fuel injectors can become clogged with deposits over time. If your engine is already being serviced or your car has been in storage for an extended period, it may be a good opportunity to have the injectors cleaned or replaced.
• Reduced fuel efficiency: When fuel injectors are not functioning properly, the engine may demand more fuel than necessary, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased consumption.
• Failed emissions test: A faulty fuel injector can cause incomplete fuel combustion, resulting in increased emissions. Additionally, a leaking injector can burn the catalytic converter, so a failed emissions test could indicate an issue with the fuel injectors.

It is important to address fuel injector issues promptly to avoid further complications and potential engine damage. While some issues may only require cleaning, others may necessitate replacement with new injectors.

How to identify a bad fuel injector

Fuel injectors are components of the fuel delivery system in a gasoline or diesel engine. They atomize the pressurized fuel and spray it into the engine's combustion chamber, where it is mixed with air for combustion. Modern vehicle systems typically also meter the amount of fuel delivered through the fuel injectors with the help of the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM).

There are two main ways that your injectors can fail to do their job properly. The first is for them to become clogged, dirty, or unresponsive, which means that not enough fuel enters the combustion chamber. The other way is if the injectors are leaking, which can cause a host of issues.

• Hard Starting: If the engine is having trouble starting, especially when it is hot, it could be due to a faulty fuel injector.
• Failed Emissions Test: A failed emissions test could be indicative of a problem with the fuel injector.
• Engine Not Reaching Full RPM: If your engine is not reaching its full RPM, it could be a sign that the fuel injector is not supplying enough fuel.
• Increased Fuel Consumption: A bad fuel injector can cause the vehicle to consume more fuel than usual.
• Rough Engine Performance: A rough-running engine can be a result of a faulty fuel injector, leading to an uneven supply of fuel.
• Surging and Bucking: If the vehicle surges and bucks under various throttle loads, it could be due to a faulty fuel injector disrupting the fuel supply.
• Reduced Power, Acceleration, and Fuel Efficiency: Clogged or faulty fuel injectors can lead to a reduction in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
• Rough Idling, Stalling, or Hesitation: When fuel injectors are not functioning properly, the engine may idle roughly, stall, or hesitate due to an inconsistent fuel supply.
• Misfires or Incomplete Combustion: A faulty fuel injector can cause misfires or incomplete combustion due to an incorrect air-fuel ratio.
• Excessive or Black Exhaust: If the exhaust is producing excessive smoke, especially black smoke, it could indicate that the fuel injector is not supplying the correct amount of fuel.
• Fuel Odor: A leaking fuel injector can release fuel vapors, resulting in a noticeable fuel odor.
• Check Engine Light: The check engine light coming on can be an indication of a faulty fuel injector, although this could also be due to other issues.

Step-by-step guide to replacing fuel injectors

Warning:

Working with fuel is dangerous and can cause fires. This is a complicated process and it is recommended that fuel injector replacement is left to a professional mechanic.

Step 1: Prepare the Car

Make sure the engine is cold to the touch and disconnect the battery. Relieve the fuel system pressure by disconnecting the fuel line (hose) and the fuel rail.

Step 2: Access the Fuel Injector

Remove any plugs connected to a wiring harness. Using pliers, disconnect the electrical connector on each injector. To access the fuel injector, you may need to lift the fuel rail off the intake manifold.

Step 3: Remove the Fuel Injector

Use fuel injector pullers to gently pull the injector out, moving it back and forth to avoid damage. Check the injector and fuel rail for damage.

Step 4: Install the New Fuel Injector

Dip the spraying tip of the new injector in engine oil to wet the seals and ensure a good fit. Push the injector back into the fuel rail and reattach it to the engine.

Step 5: Reassemble

Bolt down the injector rail and reattach the fuel line and wiring harness. Reconnect the battery.

Step 6: Test

Adjust the key to the 'on' position and start the engine after 10-15 seconds. Once the engine drops to the idle RPM rate, turn it off and inspect the new fuel injector for any leaks.

Safety precautions to take when replacing fuel injectors

Safety should be the top priority when replacing fuel injectors. As fuel is highly flammable, it is crucial to take great care when working on the fuel injection system. Here are some essential safety precautions to follow:

• Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical short circuits or sparks that could ignite fuel vapours. This is a critical safety measure, and it is recommended to disconnect the negative terminal first to avoid any electrical arcing.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
• Wear protective clothing and safety gear, including safety goggles, long rubber gloves, and boots. This will protect your eyes and skin from fuel exposure and accidental injuries.
• Have a fire extinguisher within reach whenever working on the fuel system.
• Relieve the fuel pressure prior to removing any components to prevent unexpected fuel spray. You can do this by pressing a valve on the fuel line or pulling the fuel pump relay and cranking the engine for a few seconds.
• Work in a clean area to prevent dirt and debris from contaminating the new fuel injector and fuel system.
• Isolate the engine cooling systems that flow through the cylinder head to reduce the risk of high-temperature water escaping and causing burns.
• Check the tolerances for the injector sleeve and cylinder head to ensure a proper fit and prevent seizing.
• Use the manufacturer's lapping tool for reconditioning sealing surfaces.
• Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific safety guidelines and recommendations.

By following these safety precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer and more effective fuel injector replacement process.

How much it costs to replace fuel injectors

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

Average Cost of Fuel Injector Replacement

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $900 for a fuel injector replacement, with some sources saying the range is between $500 and $2,500. The cost of parts and labour for the replacement can be between $150 and $400.

Dodge Dart Fuel Injector Replacement Cost

The average cost for a Dodge Dart Fuel Injector Replacement is between $157 and $183. However, one source suggests the cost is around $258. This includes labour costs of between $97 and $122, and parts, which are typically priced at around $60.

Saving Money on Fuel Injector Replacement

To save money on fuel injector replacement, you can compare prices and shop around for the best deal. It is also worth considering purchasing refurbished or remanufactured fuel injectors, which can be more affordable than new injectors.

Fuel Injector Parts

Individual fuel injectors can cost under $40 each, while others are several hundred dollars apiece. New fuel injector parts can cost anywhere between $600 and $1,200.

Labour Costs

Labour charges for fuel injector replacement are typically between $200 and $250.

Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel can prolong the life of fuel injectors and potentially prevent the need for replacement.

Frequently asked questions