Fuel injectors are a key part of your automotive system because they spray (inject) an appropriate amount of pressurized fuel into the cylinders of your car's engine to be ignited as part of the internal combustion process. How long does a fuel injector last? The typical life of a fuel injector is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the best fuel injectors can last as long as your vehicle. 

In this guide, you'll learn about how to increase the lifespan of your fuel injectors. You'll learn about the factors that can affect the life of a fuel injector, what you can do to extend the fuel injector's life, how to know when it's time to replace a fuel injector, how much it costs to replace a fuel injector, and how to choose a fuel injector that will last.

What factors affect the life of a fuel injector? 

The lifespan of a fuel injector is largely determined by how well it is maintained. Poor maintenance practices can lead to deposits that limit flow and reduce efficiency, shortening the life of the injector. 

Other factors that can affect how long a fuel injector lasts include:

• How often you use your vehicle: The more you drive, the more wear and tear on your fuel injectors.
• The type of fuel you use: Low-quality or contaminated fuel can reduce the life of a fuel injector.
• How much heat is generated by the engine: High engine temperatures can reduce how long a fuel injector lasts.
• The type of driving you do: Stop-and-go city driving is more likely to cause wear and tear on the fuel injectors, while highway driving is less strenuous on them.
• The quality of the parts used in your vehicle's engine: Poorly made parts can cause clogs, leakages, or other issues that can decrease the life of a fuel injector. 

How can you increase the lifespan of your fuel injectors? 

If you want to get the most out of your fuel injectors and extend their lifespan, there are several things you can do: 

• Regularly inspect and clean the fuel injectors: Regular inspections and cleanings can help prevent deposits from building up in the injector, which can reduce its efficiency and shorten its lifespan.
• Use high-quality fuels and engine parts: Using quality fuels and engine parts will ensure that your vehicle runs smoother for longer, extending how long a fuel injector lasts.
• Drive your vehicle regularly and avoid long periods of inactivity: Long periods of inactivity can cause the fuel injector to become clogged or blocked, reducing how long it lasts.
• Choose a fuel injector with a good reputation: Research different types of fuel injectors and choose one with a good reputation so you know it will last for a long time.
• Make sure to follow all manufacturer's guidelines for how to maintain your vehicle. This includes regular oil changes, checking and replacing air filters when needed, and ensuring that all other components are regularly inspected for wear or damage.

What makes fuel injectors fail? 

The most common cause of fuel injector failure are:

• Excessive deposits building up on the nozzles of the injectors. This will cause restricted fuel flow and result in poor performance or complete engine failure.
• Corrosion due to water droplets in the fuel mix. This can cause blockages, leaks or other problems in the fuel system.
• Damage due to heat and vibration caused by the engine running for extended periods of time.
• Wear due to normal operation as the injectors age and become worn out over time.
• Contamination from dirt or particles entering into the system through faulty filters or seals.
• If a fuel injector has gone too long without maintenance, it can become clogged with debris or become damaged due to normal wear and tear.

What are the signs of a bad fuel injector? 

If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following symptoms, this may be an indication that one or more of your fuel injectors are failing: 

• Difficulty starting the engine: If it takes longer than usual for the engine to start, then it may be because a fuel injector is not working properly.
• Rough idle: This is usually caused by an uneven distribution of fuel in the cylinders due to a failing injector.
• Decreased performance: If your vehicle has lost power or isn't running as efficiently as it once did, a bad fuel injector could be the cause.
• Stalling: If your engine suddenly stops while running, this can be an indication that one or more of the fuel injectors is not distributing enough fuel to keep the engine running.
• Engine misfiring: A misfiring engine can be caused by a fuel injector that isn't spraying the correct amount of fuel into the cylinders.
• Reduced fuel efficiency: If your vehicle's fuel efficiency has decreased, this could be an indication of a failing injector.
• Check engine light warning: If your check engine light comes on, it could be due to a failing fuel injector.

What is regular maintenance for fuel injectors?

Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure that your fuel injectors will last as long as possible. This includes: 

• Changing the oil regularly: Your car's oil should be changed according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule in order to keep the engine and other parts running smoothly.
• Checking air filters: Dirty air filters can reduce the airflow to your engine, causing a decrease in performance.
• Replacing spark plugs: This will help keep your engine running properly and efficiently.
• Inspecting for leaks: Leaks can cause fuel loss and reduce how long it takes for a fuel injector to last.
• Using high-quality fuel: Using quality fuels will help keep your fuel injectors clean and free of deposits.

How do I check fuel injectors?

You can check your fuel injectors yourself by taking the car for a test drive and noting any changes in performance or how the engine responds. If you notice an issue, take it to a mechanic who can diagnose and repair any issues with the fuel injectors.

If one or more of the above symptoms are present and cannot be fixed with regular maintenance or cleaning, then it may be time to consider replacing one or more of your vehicle’s fuel injectors.

Is injector failure common?

Fuel injector failure is relatively uncommon and typically only occurs if the vehicle has gone too long without proper maintenance. In most cases, the life of a fuel injector will be between 80,000 and 100,000 miles; however, some vehicles may have higher mileage before needing to replace their injectors.

How much does it cost to replace a fuel injector? 

The cost of replacing a fuel injector can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, how many injectors are needed, and how long the job takes. It’s best to consult with an experienced mechanic who can give you an accurate estimate for how much it will cost to replace your vehicle’s fuel injectors. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$1,000 for replacing one or more fuel injectors.

How to choose a fuel injector that will last?

When shopping for new fuel injectors, it's important to choose ones that are designed specifically for your vehicle. You should also look for ones with a long warranty and good reviews from other owners. It's important to consider how much power you need from the engine, and how often you plan on driving your vehicle.

Additionally, you should make sure that the fuel injectors are compatible with any additional performance upgrades you may have made. With the right fuel injector, you can enjoy improved performance and a longer lifespan for your vehicle. 

Contact Snake Eater Performance Today

By following these tips, you can ensure that your fuel injectors last longer and perform better. Taking good care of your fuel injectors will not only improve your vehicle's performance, it can also save you money in the long run. Knowing how to increase the lifespan of your fuel injectors is an essential part of being a responsible vehicle owner. 

Make sure to follow all manufacturer's guidelines for how to maintain your vehicle and regularly check the fuel injectors for any signs of wear or damage. Taking good care of your fuel injectors is the best way to keep your vehicle running at its peak performance. With regular maintenance and care, you can extend the life of your fuel injectors and ensure that your car runs smoothly for many years to come. 

Contact Snake Eater Performance today for more information about how to get the most out of your vehicle's fuel injectors. We are here to help you get the most out of your car, and make sure that you enjoy a smooth ride for many years to come. We carry LS1, LS2 and LS3 injectors in a variety of styles to fit your dream build and power needs. Let us help you find the best fuel injectors for your vehicle, and how to keep them running smoothly for years to come.