How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Fuel Injector?

You stop at the gas pump and fill your vehicle with fuel to get you where you need to go. But for your car to run smoothly, that fuel needs to be turned into tiny droplets, which are easier for the engine to burn.

Fuel injectors are responsible for this important job. When they fail, your car will run rough, accelerate slowly and consume more fuel. Replacing fuel injectors can cost hundreds of dollars , but regular maintenance can help keep your fuel injectors functioning for years to come.

Fuel injectors are electrical components controlled by your car's computer. Each cylinder of your engine has a fuel injector, so you might have four, six, eight or more. When the engine is running, these cylinders keep fuel flowing into the engine, creating the combustion that powers your vehicle.

• The fuel pump sends gasoline or diesel to the fuel injectors at each cylinder.
• The car's computer tells the injectors how much fuel the engine needs. For example, when you're accelerating, the engine needs more fuel than when you're idling.
• The injectors atomize the fuel, meaning they turn it into small particles.
• The atomized fuel is sprayed into each cylinder via a nozzle at the end of the fuel injector.
• The fuel is burned to provide your engine with power.

Fuel injector replacement costs can range from $350 to $850 , with fuel injector replacement for luxury vehicles costing up to $2500.

Many factors impact how much it costs to replace your fuel injectors, including:

• Vehicle make and model. Luxury and larger vehicles are generally the costliest.
• Engine size. Larger engines have more fuel cylinders. Replacing the cylinders on a V8 truck will cost significantly more than the same job for a four-cylinder hatchback.
• Labor costs. Labor costs for a mechanic can vary, so get multiple quotes. If you're familiar with engines, consider doing the job yourself.
• Warranty coverage. In most cases, fuel injectors are covered , by a manufacturer's powertrain warranty and by bumper-to-bumper warranties. If your vehicle is still under warranty, the parts, labor or both may be covered.

If you need a new fuel injector, you'll notice that your engine isn't running as smoothly as it once did. Signs of a bad fuel injector include:

• Less engine power
• Engine misfires
• Engine vibration and rough idling
• Hesitant acceleration
• Check engine light illuminated
• Reduced fuel economy
• Stalling
• Vehicle not starting
• Foul smell from the engine or engine oil
• Increased engine emissions

With regular maintenance, fuel injectors can last 150,000 miles or more. However, once you notice the engine troubles listed above, it's important to replace your fuel injectors promptly. Ignoring the problem can lead to more engine damage.

When one fuel injector fails, you have a choice: Replace just the problematic injector or replace them all. Generally, replacing them all at once is considered best practice, since all of the cylinders experience the same wear and tear and are likely to have a similar life span.

Here's what to consider:

Don't be afraid to ask your mechanic to look at your fuel injectors and give their opinion on whether you're better off replacing them all or if you can get away with replacing just one.

With some planning, you might be able to cut down on your fuel injector replacement costs. Here's how to save money:

• Clean fuel injectors as part of regular maintenance. This can help your fuel injectors last for a longer time before they need to be replaced.
• Address problems early. See your mechanic as soon as you notice signs like rough idling or slow acceleration. Getting into the repair shop early might not mean that your fuel injectors can be saved, but it can save you money on tow costs, missed work and other expenses you'll incur if your car breaks down.
• Use aftermarket or refurbished parts. These parts are cheaper than those purchased directly from your car's manufacturer (OEM parts) but often have similar life spans and performance.
• Shop around. Get different quotes for the parts and labor. While the lowest price isn't always the best option, it can help you make an informed decision about which mechanic to choose.
• Consider replacing just one. Ask your mechanic about replacing only one fuel injector. This will save you money in the short run. But in the long term, you'll likely pay more in labor since your mechanic will need to spend time accessing the engine for each replacement, instead of only once.

To get the most from your fuel injectors, you should clean them at least once a year (or about every 30,000 miles). There are a few ways to do this:

• Try cleaning fuel additives. These products (which typically cost $10 to $20) clean the injectors as you drive your car.
• Use a cleaning kit. Fuel injector cleaning kits ( $25 to $100+) allow you to clean your injectors by removing them and using solvents to clean any debris or buildup.
• Visit a mechanic. Mechanics can remove your fuel injectors and clean them with specialty tools. This will cost roughly $50 to $80.

Fuel injectors keep your engine running smoothly and help you get where you need to go. Cleaning your fuel injectors at least once a year can keep your engine firing on all cylinders. When you notice signs of fuel injector trouble—like slow acceleration or rough idling—see a mechanic about getting your fuel injectors replaced so you can avoid costlier engine damage.

The Synchrony Car Care™ credit card can help you manage costs for unexpected car repairs, including fuel injector replacements, and the regular maintenance needed to keep your fuel injectors working well. Learn more about the Synchrony Car Care™ credit card and apply today.