How Much Does a Fuel Injector Cost for a Car?

Expect to pay $50–$300 for a single gasoline injector and $150–$600 for a diesel injector in parts, with installed totals ranging from $150–$650 per injector for port-injected gas engines, $300–$1,000+ for gasoline direct injection (GDI), and $500–$1,500+ for diesel. A full set can run $200–$1,800 in parts for gasoline or $900–$4,000+ for diesel, with installed totals from $400 up to $3,500+ depending on engine, access, and brand. Prices vary widely by make, model, and whether you choose OEM, aftermarket, or remanufactured components.

What drives injector pricing

Injector costs differ based on engine technology, parts sourcing, labor access, and any required coding or ancillary components. Here’s how those factors stack up in 2025.

Engine and injection type

Port-injected gasoline engines generally use simpler, less expensive injectors. Newer GDI systems use high-pressure injectors that cost more and often require new high-pressure pipes during replacement. Diesel common-rail injectors are precision components with tight tolerances, typically the most expensive and often paired with programming and core charges.

OEM vs aftermarket vs remanufactured

OEM injectors offer the best fit and calibration but cost more. Quality aftermarket units can save 10–40%. Remanufactured diesel and some GDI injectors are common and cost-effective, typically sold with a core charge ($50–$150 per injector) refunded when you return the old unit.

Single injector vs full set

Replacing one injector can be cheaper short-term, but many shops suggest replacing the full set on high-mileage engines—especially diesel—to avoid repeat labor and uneven flow rates. Some GDI and diesel rails are easier to service as a set.

Labor time and access

Inline-4 port-injected engines may need under two hours for a set. Many GDI and V6/V8 layouts require removing intake components and fuel rails, pushing labor to 3–6+ hours. Some diesel pickups can exceed 8–10 hours for a full set depending on model and corrosion.

Diagnostics, coding, and calibration

Professional diagnostics ($120–$180) can confirm an injector is at fault versus wiring, pump, or compression issues. GDI and diesel injectors on many brands require coding/calibration ($0–$150) to match the ECU to each injector’s flow data.

Location and shop rates

U.S. labor rates commonly range $100–$200 per hour in 2025. Major metro areas trend higher. Taxes, shop fees, and hazardous waste disposal typically add $5–$30 to the invoice.

Typical price ranges in 2025

These ranges reflect current U.S. pricing for parts and typical installed totals. Actual quotes vary by vehicle, region, and shop.

• Gasoline port injection (MPI): Parts $30–$120 each aftermarket, $80–$250 OEM; installed $150–$400 per injector; full set on an inline-4 often $400–$900 installed.
• Gasoline direct injection (GDI): Parts $100–$350 aftermarket, $250–$600+ OEM; installed $300–$1,000+ per injector; full set: 4-cyl $800–$2,200, V6/V8 $1,200–$3,000+.
• Diesel common-rail: Parts $200–$600 each (reman/new); installed $500–$1,500+ per injector; full set (6–8 injectors) $1,800–$5,500+ depending on engine and access.

Use these figures as planning ranges; a precise estimate requires your VIN, mileage, and a shop’s labor guide time for your engine layout.

Example estimates by vehicle category

The following examples illustrate typical U.S. retail pricing for common vehicles, including parts and labor, assuming no unusual corrosion or extra repairs.

• 2015 Toyota Camry 2.5L (port injection): Single injector installed $180–$320; full set (4) $400–$800 installed.
• 2018 Honda Civic 1.5T (GDI): Per injector $450–$900 installed; full set (4) $1,100–$2,000 installed.
• 2019 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost (GDI V6): Per injector $600–$1,000; set (6) $1,600–$2,800 installed.
• 2017 BMW 330i (GDI): Per injector $700–$1,200 (includes decouplers/pipes and coding); set (4) $2,000–$3,200 installed.
• 2016 VW GTI 2.0T (GDI): Per injector $450–$850; set (4) $1,100–$1,900 installed.
• 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Duramax (diesel V8): Per injector $700–$1,200; full set (8) $2,800–$5,500 installed (core charges likely).
• 2015 Ram 2500 Cummins 6.7L (diesel I6): Per injector $600–$1,000; set (6) $2,200–$4,500 installed.

Luxury brands and turbocharged GDI engines tend to sit at the upper end due to part cost, coding, and service access.

Additional costs you might see

Injector jobs often include small but important extras that affect the final bill.

• Seals/O-rings/decouplers: $5–$25 per injector; always replaced.
• High-pressure fuel pipes (single-use on many GDI/diesel): $15–$60 each.
• Fuel rail (if damaged/leaking): $150–$400.
• Intake manifold gaskets: $20–$60 when removal is required.
• Carbon cleaning for GDI (walnut blast): $150–$450 if doing intake removal anyway.
• Fuel filter replacement: $20–$75 parts, $30–$120 labor; recommended on diesel.
• Diagnostics and coding: $120–$180 for testing; $0–$150 for coding/calibration.
• Core charges (diesel and some GDI reman): $50–$150 per injector, refundable on return.

Asking your shop to itemize these add-ons helps you compare quotes apples-to-apples.

Can cleaning fix it?

Sometimes. Cleaning is more effective on port injectors and lightly fouled GDI units; it’s less successful for mechanically worn or leaking injectors, and many diesel failures require replacement.

• On-car fuel-system cleaning: $80–$180; good maintenance, limited for clogged/leaking injectors.
• Bench ultrasonic cleaning/flow test: $20–$60 per injector plus removal/reinstall labor.
• GDI/diesel: Cleaning has mixed results; internal leakage or poor spray pattern often means replace.

If a flow test shows out-of-spec delivery or internal leakage, replacement is the reliable fix.

DIY vs. shop

Mechanically inclined owners can replace port injectors with basic tools; GDI and diesel jobs demand special tools, safety procedures for high-pressure fuel, and often coding.

• DIY-friendly: Port-injected inline-4s with accessible rails; 1–3 hours for a set.
• Advanced DIY or shop: GDI and diesel systems (depressurization, torque specs, new pipes, coding).
• Essential tools: Torque wrench, fuel line tools, scan tool (coding for some models), new seals/pipes.

If you lack the tools or software for coding and leak testing, an experienced independent shop is usually the safer, faster route.

How to save money

Target parts sourcing and labor efficiency to trim costs without sacrificing reliability.

• Compare 2–3 quotes from reputable independents and the dealer; ask for OEM vs quality aftermarket pricing.
• Consider remanufactured injectors from trusted brands, especially for diesel, and return cores promptly.
• Replace in sets on high-mileage GDI/diesel to avoid repeat labor and mismatched flow.
• Bundle related work (intake gaskets, carbon cleaning) while the intake is off.
• Check for TSBs, extended warranties, or emissions coverage; some models have goodwill programs.
• Use high-quality fuel and keep up on fuel filter changes (critical on diesel).

A clear, written estimate and part numbers on the invoice help ensure you’re getting what you paid for.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Misdiagnosis is common. Confirm the injector is at fault before replacing parts.

• Symptoms: Rough idle, misfire under load, hard starts, poor fuel economy, fuel smell, fuel in oil (diesel), smoke.
• Codes: P020x (injector circuit), P030x (misfire), fuel trim anomalies, cylinder contribution (diesel).
• Tests: Noid light or scope for pulse, resistance checks, balance/return-flow tests (diesel), leak-down/pressure decay, swap test between cylinders.

A competent diagnostic step can prevent unnecessary injector purchases and uncover wiring or ECU issues.

Warranties and regional snapshots

In the U.S., federal emissions coverage is 2yr/24k miles for most components and 8yr/80k for specific major parts (injectors generally aren’t in the 8/80 list, but some PZEV or state programs differ). Check your manufacturer for any injector-related extensions or TSBs. Outside the U.S., pricing varies:

• UK: Gasoline injectors £40–£250 each; diesel £120–£500; labor £60–£120/hr; installed totals £150–£1,200+ depending on engine.
• EU: Similar bands, roughly €50–€300 gasoline and €150–€600 diesel per injector, with labor €80–€150/hr in many cities.

Always verify local labor rates and taxes to refine estimates.

Bottom line

Plan on $150–$650 installed per injector for port-injected gas engines, $300–$1,000+ for GDI, and $500–$1,500+ for diesel, with full-set jobs ranging from a few hundred dollars on simple gas engines to $3,500+ on complex GDI and diesel trucks. Diagnostics, coding, and small parts add to the total. Get multiple quotes and consider OEM or reputable remanufactured options to balance cost and reliability.

Summary

A car’s injector costs depend on engine type, parts choice, and labor complexity. Gasoline port injection is the least expensive; GDI and diesel systems are pricier and may require coding and additional hardware. Expect U.S. parts costs of $50–$300 per gasoline injector and $150–$600 per diesel injector, with installed totals spanning $150–$1,500+ per injector. Full-set replacements on modern GDI and diesel engines commonly exceed $1,000. Confirm the diagnosis, compare quotes, and factor in seals, pipes, and potential coding to avoid surprises.

Can you drive a car with a bad injector?

You can drive a short distance with a bad fuel injector, but it’s strongly discouraged as it can lead to more severe and expensive engine problems, including catalytic converter failure, engine damage from misfires or flooding, and potential breakdowns. The severity of the damage depends on the injector’s failure mode (not enough fuel, too much fuel, or poor spray pattern), and driving with any of these issues poses risks to your vehicle’s performance and long-term health. 
Risks of Driving with a Bad Fuel Injector

• Catalytic Converter Damage: Opens in new tabAn inaccurate fuel mixture from a failing injector can overheat and destroy the expensive catalytic converter. 
• Engine Misfires: Opens in new tabIf the injector fails to spray fuel properly, it can cause a cylinder to misfire, leading to an incomplete burn and poor engine performance. 
• Engine Flooding: Opens in new tabA fuel injector that sticks open can dump too much fuel into the cylinder, flooding the engine. 
• Hydro Lock: Opens in new tabAn excessive amount of liquid fuel in the cylinder can lead to hydro locking, which can bend connecting rods and damage pistons and other engine components. 
• Washing Out Cylinder Walls: Opens in new tabA constant stream of fuel from a failed injector can wash away engine oil, leading to scoring and damage to the cylinder walls and pistons. 
• Increased Oil Contamination: Opens in new tabFuel can mix with the engine oil, reducing its lubrication properties and potentially causing damage to engine bearings. 

What to Do if You Suspect a Bad Fuel Injector

• Check for warning lights: A malfunctioning fuel injector will often trigger the check engine light. 
• Observe engine symptoms: Pay attention to rough idling, engine misfires, poor engine power, or excessive fuel consumption. 
• Avoid driving for long distances: If you suspect a fuel injector issue, minimize driving to prevent further damage. 
• Seek immediate professional help: Have your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose the problem and prevent costly repairs. 

Is it worth replacing a fuel injector?

Yes, it is worth replacing fuel injectors if they are failing, as this can improve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall truck health, while preventing further engine damage. However, replacing fuel injectors is usually a necessity for continued driving rather than a beneficial upgrade, and the decision to replace them should be based on professional diagnosis of issues like engine misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, or engine damage from leaks. 
Signs You Need to Replace Your Fuel Injectors

• Misfiring Engine: Opens in new tabA faulty injector can cause uneven fuel delivery, leading to an engine that misfires or idles roughly. 
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Opens in new tabWhen injectors don’t deliver fuel correctly, the engine cannot combust fuel efficiently, leading to lower MPG. 
• Fuel Leaks: Opens in new tabLeaking injectors can cause excess fuel to enter the engine, which is inefficient and can lead to potential engine damage. 
• Hard Starting or Stalling: Opens in new tabInsufficient fuel delivery from a faulty injector can make the engine difficult to start or cause it to stall. 

Benefits of Replacement

• Improved Engine Performance: New injectors ensure accurate fuel delivery, resulting in better acceleration, smoother idling, and faster throttle response. 
• Increased Fuel Efficiency: Correctly atomized fuel combusts more completely, leading to better gas mileage. 
• Extended Engine Life: By ensuring efficient combustion and balancing fuel delivery to each cylinder, new injectors reduce engine strain and extend its life. 
• Reduced Emissions: Complete fuel combustion leads to fewer unburnt fuels being expelled, which reduces harmful vehicle emissions. 

When to Replace

• Failure Detection: It’s crucial to replace a fuel injector immediately if a professional diagnoses a failing injector. 
• Preventative Maintenance: For preventative maintenance, some recommend replacing fuel injectors every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, though this can vary based on vehicle condition and driving habits. 
• Consider Replacing All at Once: Replacing all injectors at the same time can prevent future headaches from multiple failures and ensure even fuel delivery across all cylinders. 

What are the signs of a bad fuel injector?

Signs of a bad fuel injector include a rough or inconsistent engine idle, engine misfires and vibrations, a persistent check engine light, reduced fuel economy, hard starting or stalling, a strong fuel smell from the vehicle, and black smoke from the exhaust. You might also notice a lack of engine power, especially during acceleration or climbing hills, and the vehicle may fail an emissions test.
 
Engine & Performance Issues

• Misfires and Rough Idling: You may feel vibrations or a sputtering sensation from the engine, as one or more cylinders don’t receive the correct amount of fuel. 
• Poor Performance: The engine may struggle to accelerate or lose power, especially under load, and may not reach its full RPM range. 
• Stalling: A clogged or failing injector can cause the engine to stall, particularly when the gas pedal is pressed, leading to a lean fuel-to-air mixture. 
• Hard Starting: The engine may have difficulty starting or fail to start entirely because the injector isn’t delivering the necessary fuel. 

Visible & Auditory Clues

• Check Engine Light: Opens in new tabYour car’s onboard computer will illuminate the check engine light, which can be triggered by an incorrect fuel delivery from a faulty injector. 
• Fuel Odor: Opens in new tabA strong smell of fuel may be noticeable inside or around the vehicle, often from leaking injectors. 
• Black Smoke: Opens in new tabBlack smoke from the tailpipe can indicate a rich fuel mixture caused by a bad injector, as the excess fuel doesn’t burn completely. 

Other Indicators

• Reduced Fuel Economy: A bad injector can waste fuel, leading to more frequent trips to the gas station. 
• Failed Emissions Test: An incorrect air-fuel ratio caused by faulty injectors can lead to increased emissions and a failed emissions test. 
• Engine Knocking: In some cases, especially with a lean condition caused by a bad injector, you may hear engine knocking or pinging sounds, which can be serious. 

What to Do

• Fuel System Cleaning: Opens in new tabA cleaning service can help remove carbon blockages and restore proper injector function. 
• Professional Diagnosis: Opens in new tabIf you notice these signs, it’s important to have your fuel injectors inspected and tested by a mechanic to determine the exact cause of the problem. 

Is it expensive to fix a fuel injector?

Replacing a fuel injector costs between $500 and $2,500, with the exact price depending on the vehicle’s make and model, the type of injector, and the labor rates of your mechanic. While individual injectors might seem inexpensive, the total cost often includes more expensive parts, significant labor to access and replace the injectors, and potential additional repairs if other fuel system components are also affected. 
Factors that affect the cost:

• Vehicle Make and Model: Opens in new tabSmaller vehicles with fewer cylinders or less complex systems are cheaper, while luxury, high-performance, and larger vehicles like trucks will have higher costs. 
• Number of Injectors: Opens in new tabYou will pay more if multiple injectors need replacement, and it’s often recommended to replace them all at once. 
• Parts Cost: Opens in new tabIndividual injectors can range from under $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the vehicle and brand. 
• Labor Costs: Opens in new tabMechanics’ labor rates vary significantly by location. Replacing fuel injectors can be time-consuming, as it may require removing many engine components to gain access. 
• Additional Repairs: Opens in new tabIssues with other fuel system parts, such as the fuel pump, can increase the overall cost. 
• Warranty Coverage: Opens in new tabIf your vehicle is still under a manufacturer’s warranty (like a powertrain warranty), the cost may be covered. 

Signs of a faulty fuel injector: 

• Poor acceleration or lack of engine power
• Rough idling or the engine stalling
• Engine misfires
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• A fuel smell in the engine oil
• Hesitation when starting the engine