Your fuel injectors are responsible for distributing fuel into the combustion chamber. If your automobile is equipped with direct fuel injection, the fuel injectors spray the gasoline or diesel fuel directly into the cylinders. If it is not equipped with direct fuel injection, the injectors will spray the fuel into an intake manifold for distribution. Auto Solutions lists six signs that your fuel injectors are leaking below. This can cause serious engine problems if left unattended.
1. Black Exhaust
If the fuel injectors are leaking too much fuel into the combustion chamber or in the engine, this fuel will be burned away and you may see black exhaust flowing out of your tailpipe. Even if you drive a diesel engine, you should not see excessive exhaust flow.
2. Emissions Test Failure
Too much fuel in the combustion chamber will increase the amount of carbons in your vehicle’s exhaust. This, naturally, will lead to an emissions test failure. The more carbons in your exhaust, the less chance you have of passing the test.
3. Fuel Odors
You may smell fuel on the inside and outside of your automobile. This is definitely a sign that your fuel injectors are leaking, or you have a fuel leak coming from one of the fuel lines or somewhere else. As you can imagine, leaking fuel can be dangerous.
4. Hard Starts When Hot
Another sign that your fuel injectors are leaking is difficulty starting your automobile when the engine is hot. You won’t notice as much of a problem when the engine is cold, but it will definitely take several tries to get the vehicle started when the engine is already hot.
5. Increased Fuel Consumption
Naturally, if the fuel injectors are leaking and excess fuel is being burned away, you will notice an increase in your vehicle’s fuel consumption. You will end up having to head to the service station more often to fill your tank with diesel fuel or gasoline. If you track your mileage, it’s easier to spot changes in your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
6. Rough Idling
Finally, the excess fuel can flood the engine and cause your vehicle to idle roughly. You may also notice other engine performance issues such as the engine surging and your vehicle picking up speed unexpectedly. If the engine is flooded severely, you won’t be able to get your automobile started.
Auto Solutions is the best auto repair shop in Orlando, FL, and we’d be happy to inspect your fuel injectors to see if they are leaking. Schedule an appointment with us today.
