Cleaning your fuel injectors is one of the simplest ways to improve your car’s performance and fuel economy. Over time, injectors can become clogged with carbon deposits, causing rough idling, poor acceleration, and reduced mileage. The good news is, you can easily restore your engine’s efficiency with a few basic tools and the right fuel system cleaner. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to clean fuel injectors effectively.
Why Fuel Injectors Need Cleaning
Fuel injectors deliver a fine mist of fuel into your engine’s combustion chamber. When they get dirty, the spray pattern becomes uneven, leading to incomplete combustion. This not only affects performance but also increases emissions. Regular fuel injector cleaning helps maintain optimal air-fuel ratios, ensuring smoother operation and better fuel efficiency.
How Long Should You Store Your Car?
Step 1: Use a Fuel Injector Cleaner Additive
The easiest way to clean injectors is by using a fuel system cleaner additive. Pour the recommended amount directly into your fuel tank before refueling. As the cleaner circulates through the system, it dissolves deposits from injectors, valves, and fuel lines. Look for a trusted product that also includes a fuel stabilizer to keep fuel fresh and prevent new buildup.
Step 2: Perform a Deep Cleaning (Optional)
If your engine still runs rough after using an additive, a professional cleaning may be required. Mechanics use pressurized cleaning kits that connect directly to the fuel rail for a more thorough wash. This removes stubborn deposits that additives alone might not handle.
Step 3: Maintain a Clean Fuel System
Prevention is always better than repair. To keep your fuel injectors clean, use quality fuel and add a gasoline stabilizer like STA-BIL® Fuel Stabilizer—especially if your car sits unused for long periods. It prevents oxidation, water buildup, and varnish formation, keeping your injectors and engine in peak condition.
Regular fuel injector maintenance not only improves performance but also extends your engine’s life. By using a reliable fuel system cleaner and following a consistent maintenance routine, you can enjoy smoother starts, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions—all with minimal effort.
