Did you know that the quality of gasoline you use determines the life of your fuel injectors? Fuel injectors include a precision-ground needle valve. Fuel spraying from the fuel injector must pass through a very small opening in the discharge nozzle. This is necessary to create a cone-shaped spray pattern that breaks the fuel up into a fine mist for proper atomization.
Most newer style fuel injectors are more clog resistant than their predecessors, but all are vulnerable to clogging to some extent. The reason for this is, every time the injector sprays fuel, a small amount of fuel remains in the nozzle of the fuel injector. As it evaporates, it leaves behind a wax-like residue that forms hard varnish deposits which can eventually clog fuel injectors.
The rate at which deposits build up is directly related to the quality of gasoline burned and as to whether or not the gasoline possesses quality detergents. The octane of the fuel you use directly affects not only fuel injector life, but also affects carbon deposit build-up in the intake manifold and EGR, (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) systems. (See article, “What octane fuel is best for my vehicle?” under the “Did you know” link) Short-trip driving builds up deposits more quickly than continuous or long distance driving. The best way to maintain your fuel injection system and keep your fuel injectors in tip top shape is to use only “branded” higher octane fuels, (Preferably 93 octane). Branded fuels would include Shell, Exxon, Texaco, Amoco/Bp, etc. If you use these or other name brand fuels, the chances of ever needing your fuel injectors cleaned will be almost completely eliminated. Great advice to any consumer is to stay away from the so called “bargain” gasolines! When it comes to fuel, you get what you pay for. You can find out more about fuel quality on this website under the “did you know” link.