Most newer cars have fuel injection systems. A fuel injection system is computerized and continuously distributes the right amount of fuel to each of the engine cylinders, opening up the intake valves into the engine at the right time, and keeping up an exact pressure. Fuel injection is a superior form of management and distribution of fuel to the engine than a carburetor. There is a system of sensors that tells the computer exactly what is occurring with the fuel intake, air intake, oxygen levels, fuel consumption rate, gas and poison levels in the exhaust system, and so forth. The computer can then make exact adjustments on the amount of fuel and air being let in to the engine. This results in a very efficient use of fuel and maximum engine efficiency.

Â

If there is a problem with one of the sensors the computer will turn on a light to inform the driver of the problem. The computer will give a code stating exactly what needs to be fixed. It is unnecessary to replace the whole fuel injection system if just one part is faulty. A competent mechanic who knows fuel injection systems will know how to retrieve the code from the computer, determine the exact problem, and repair it without having to replace the entire fuel injection mechanism.

Not all mechanics have kept pace with technological advances such as fuel injection, however, and those that have not may try to take the easy way out, telling you that you have to replace the whole fuel injection system when this may not be the case.

1. The fuel injection system uses sensors to monitor the levels of fuel, air, exhaust, etc.

2. There is a computer that uses the data from these sensors to manage the distribution of fuel and air to the engine.

3. The computer generates a code if there is a problem with the fuel injection system, telling the mechanic exactly what needs to be fixed.