Fuel injectors are connected in pretty much all cars the same way. Of course, the connecting and fixating systems may have some differences, but almost all vehicles will have problems with those connector clips. With age, plastic becomes unreliable and may just break easily when you try to pull the injector out of its place.
Injection problems highlights
- Level of importance:High
- Can you drive?Usually, yes
- DIY inspection:Possible but complicated
- DIY repairs:Mostly,impossible
- Price of repair:$350 - $850
- Commonreasons:Clogging, age, electrical problems
- How to fix:Verify electrical connectors, clean the injectors, swap them to see if the codes change
What's the fuel injector connector clip?
This is the plastic fixator that holds the fuel injector harness in place allowing the injector to get signals and impulses from other parts of your vehicle. It means that if this connector clip is broken, you may experience some problems with signals to the injector and it just may stop working. This will result in engine misfiring, loss of power, problems with acceleration, engine shaking, high fuel consumption, and other problems.
But it's not always so. You may want to know that thousands of people drive with these clips broken and don't even know about that.
This plastic part just dries out over time and breaks because the plastic deteriorates. Usually, the clip will break when you try to pull the wiring harness from the injector. In most cases, this happens when you want to have your injectors cleaned but don't want to pay for labor to have them taken off the vehicle. You just pull the harness and the clip breaks after making some sounds.
Can you drive like that?
The first question people usually ask in this situation is whether they can replace this clip easily or not. Unfortunately, not. This clip is integrated into the connector which in turn is integrated into the wiring.
So, the next question people ask when they see it's not a 5-dollar breakdown, is whether they can drive their vehicle like that, without investing in repair.
If your fuel injector connector sits tight and doesn't move to the sides when you place it where it should be placed, it should be OK for some time. Try putting it in place and taking it off a couple of times and try to see if it's able to work properly.
But don't forget that these connectors work in quite harsh conditions. They are placed on the top of the engine which continuously shakes and shivers when working. It means the connector may easily fall off when you drive, especially if you drive on harsh terrains. This means that the vehicle will lose one cylinder and have all the proper consequences for this.
How to repair the broken clip connector?
Well, you have basically two choices: the more expensive and the more technically complicated. Let's see what you can do.
The first method is to buy a new injector connector with short wires on it. Then you will need to cut the old connector and solder it to the old wires in your vehicle. This will need some knowledge of car electric systems and how to solder properly. Of course, you should also weather protect your connections properly.
The second option is replacing the whole piece of the wiring harness that connects the injector to other parts of your vehicle. This is a more expensive but more proper way to deal with the problem. Of course, it will take more time and the harness may also cost much more than a clip itself.
Whatever you choose, you will need some parts and also someone to help you with this. Otherwise, you have to have some experience and knowledge about how the car's electrical system works to avoid any bad damage.
What can happen if I keep driving with this problem?
Nothing much. You can try placing the injector connector back in its place without replacing the connector or the harness. If the connector holds properly, no problems will occur. But if the connector is loose and falls off, you will immediately see it. The engine will start shaking and will lose power. In this case, you will have to invest in this problem and deal with it as soon as possible.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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