Sprinter Van Fuel Injector Service

Dodge Sprinter Van: Bad Fuel Injectors - Symptoms and Causes

Fuel injectors can go the life of a modern vehicle with little to no trouble at all. That being said, bad fuel injectors are one of the more common issues that happen to any vehicle (Dodge Sprinter included). There’s always more than one, and one going bad is enough to make a noticeable impact on the drivability of the Sprinter.

There are two main ways that your injectors can go bad. The first is for them to become clogged, dirty, or unresponsive. When this happens not enough fuel enters into your Sprinter’s combustion chamber. The other way is if the injectors are leaking. When they leak, they can really do some damage.

Bad Fuel Injector Symptoms: Dodge Sprinter Van

The symptoms of bad fuel injectors are going to feel almost the same as a bad fuel pump or fuel filter. That’s why it’s important to check the fuel pressure at the rail before replacing injectors, otherwise, you may end throwing good money after bad. If you do end up needing to replace the injectors, they are somewhat affordable.

Dirty or Clogged or Unresponsive Injectors Symptoms

Difficult to start – When some of the cylinders aren’t getting the right amount of fuel, it can be very difficult for the engine to turn over. It may not even start at all.
Idle Issues – With a fuel injector that is not properly atomizing fuel properly, your Sprinter is going to have a difficult time idling. It’ll feel almost exactly the same as if it had a bad spark plug. That is to say, there will be a sudden drop in idle speed. It may feel like the engine is about to die.
Emissions Issues – When the fuel is not entering the combustion chamber in the right quantity, the engine may adjust the air/fuel mixture, which can lead to increased exhaust emissions.
Loss of Power – Typically, as the engine RPM increases, you won’t be able to “feel” the engine misfire as much. But, you’ll definitely notice the lack of power.
Less Fuel Mileage MPG – Your Sprinter’s engine management computer is constantly adjusting the air/fuel ratio and timing to get optimal combustion. When the fuel injectors aren’t working properly it can’t do that and fuel mileage suffers.
Knock/Detonation – Detonation can cause your Sprinter’s engine to blow. This is certainly the worst-case scenario. Don’t ignore an engine that isn’t running right. You’ll do way more damage in the long run by not fixing the problem now.

Leaking Injectors

A leaking injector can cause all of the problems listed above, as well as:

Thin Oil – When a fuel injector leaks, all of that fuel is not getting burned in the combustion chamber. Any gas that is not fired and sent out as exhaust ends up in the oil pan. When this happens it can decrease your Sprinter’s engine lubrication to the point that it’ll lock up. You will smell fuel on the dipstick.
The Smell of Fuel – When your engine is getting too much fuel, your Sprinter can’t burn it all. You’ll probably notice the smell of gas as you are driving locally. On the highway, there’ll probably be too much wind for you to catch it.
Engine Locks Up – Once too much gas gets in the oil, the motor will lock up. If you have reason to suspect there is gas in your oil, do not drive your Sprinter. Change the oil.

Bad Fuel Injectors Diagnosis: Dodge Sprinter

Leaking fuel injectors are often caused by a bad a crack in their body. When this occurs they must be replaced.

If the injectors are clogged you’ll need to have them cleaned by a professional. When they are dirty but not yet clogged, you may be able to clean them with a good fuel injector cleaner.

Here is a great video from “Ratchets and Wrenches” on YouTube on how to go about the process of diagnosing a fuel injector from beginning to end.

Conclusion

If your Sprinter is experiencing the symptoms of bad fuel injectors, it would be wise to address the issue right away. If there is anything you would like to add, please feel free to leave a comment below. Good luck!