Dirty or clogged fuel injectors can cause havoc in a car's fuel system. After the fuel is drawn from the fuel tank by the fuel pump, it passes through the fuel filter. The filter catches most contaminants present in the fuel. After passing through the fuel filter, the fuel is either sent to the injection pump or directly to the injectors. Any contaminants that passed through the filter will become lodged within the tips of the fuel injectors. The cleaning of the injectors might be necessary to help with fuel economy and to preserve engine running standards.
Remove the plastic engine cover from the engine using a cross-head screwdriver. Proceed to remove the injector wiring harness with a 10-mm socket.
Remove the driver's side valve cover by removing the bolts with a 13-mm socket. Once the valve cover is removed, set it to the side and repeat for the passenger side valve cover.
Remove the wiring harness from the injectors by squeezing the connector tabs and gently pulling them free. After all the connectors are removed, gently lift the valve cover gasket from the the engine. The gasket is reusable, so set it to the side in a clean area.
Remove the injectors by loosening the lower injector bolt with an 8-mm socket. Pull up on the injectors to remove them from the engine.
Place the six injectors in a bucket with clean motor oil. Use a wire brush to remove the carbon build-up on the injector tips. Let the injectors soak in the oil for up to an hour.
Remove the injectors from the oil, and lightly wipe them off with a clean cloth. Re-install the injectors by reversing the techniques used in steps one through four.
