Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Cold Start Injector

Common symptoms include difficult starting, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine performance problems.

A cold start injector, also called a cold start valve, is an engine control component used in many road vehicles. It is designed to supply additional fuel to the engine to enrich the fuel mixture at low temperatures when air density increases and additional fuel is required. It plays a key role in a car's performance, fuel economy, and starting characteristics, so when it has problems, problems can reduce the car's overall drivability. Typically, a problematic cold start injector will show several symptoms that can alert the driver that a potential problem has arisen and needs to be fixed.

1. Heavy launch

One of the first symptoms usually associated with a bad cold start injector is a problem starting the car. The cold start injector is designed to enrich the vehicle's fuel mixture at low temperatures, such as during cold starts or in cold weather. If the cold start injector fails or has any problems, it may not be able to supply the extra fuel needed in cold conditions and, as a result, starting the vehicle may be difficult.

2. Reduced MPG

Decreased fuel efficiency is another sign of a bad or defective cold start injector. If the cold start injector leaks through the injector and allows fuel into the intake, this will result in the mixture being too rich. This leak will result in reduced fuel efficiency and in some cases performance and acceleration.

3. Problems with engine operation

Engine performance issues are another symptom usually associated with a bad or faulty cold start injector. If a cold start injector fails or a large enough leak occurs, it can lead to problems with engine operation. A leaky cold start injector can result in engine power loss and acceleration as a result of a poor air-fuel ratio. In more serious cases, when a large amount of fuel enters the manifold, the car may even stall or misfire.

If your car starts showing any of the above symptoms, or you suspect that your cold start injector has failed, have your car checked by a professional technician, such as one of AvtoTachki, to determine if your vehicle needs a cold start injector replacement.