Fuel injector? Fuel regulator? Fuel pump? Learn fuel diagnostics

Don't just throw parts at a problem. In order to truly diagnose the problem with your fuel system you need to understand how it works. If your car has a slow start condition, chances are you are leaking fuel in one of three places. Fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, or the check valve in the fuel pump assembly are the places you need to verify where the problem is coming from. In this video we will explore these areas to find where the leak is and then how to fix it. Hope you find the video useful.
Here are links to items I used:
fuel pressure gauge: amzn.to/2ugxx2l
nylon fuel line (5/16 O.D): amzn.to/3bltHWm
fuel line adapter for 5/16 nylon hose: amzn.to/2S5clFB
fuel line T-fitting adapter: amzn.to/31E2GsI
5/16 one-way check valve: amzn.to/2Sm6oD3
bicycle pump: amzn.to/2OwhZOH
SUPPORT MY CHANNEL FOR "FREE" - visit amazon through THIS LINK (or any link on my channel)
** amzn.to/2SLOzgI **
and I'll get a small percent of whatever you buy from them. Costs you nothing. Thanks guys!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Don't just throw parts at a problem, In order to truly diagnose the problem with your fuel system you need to understand how it works. If your car has a slow start condition, chances are you are leaking fuel in one of three places. Fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, Or the check valve in the fuel pump assembly are the places you need to verify where the problem is coming from. In this video we will explore these areas to find where the leak is and then how to fix it. Hope you find the video useful

[@Bruddah68]

This is the best diagnosis video on KZbin!!! I can't believe how straight up your narration is. Hands down the most informative and easy to understand tutorial EVER. Thank you and hope to learn a lot more from you sir!!!

[@derekmiller5239]

This is the best fuel pressure testing video I've ever seen. Straight to the point. This video covered everything I learned in 20 videos. Good job.

[@Patrixxist]

Finally someone that speaks at the speed of my slow brain.

[@daisysplayshop7932]

🤣

[@archietyson5362]

i guess im asking randomly but does someone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I stupidly forgot the account password. I would appreciate any help you can offer me!

[@deckerkhari1991]

@Archie Tyson Instablaster ;)

[@archietyson5362]

@Decker Khari thanks so much for your reply. I found the site thru google and Im trying it out now. Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@archietyson5362]

@Decker Khari WTF IT ACTUALLY WORKED :O I just got access to my ig password within ~ 30 minutes of using the site. Had to pay 15$ but definitely worth it :) Thanks so much, you saved my account!

[@jack765ful]

This is AWESOME! Great analytical process of elimination. Great improvisation turning a $330 fix into a $4 fix. Very impressive.

[@zigzag7194]

Got to agree with you but I do have a question. Does this not put more pressure on the other part..

[@jack765ful]

@@zigzag7194 It won’t put “more” pressure than what the components are designed for. 😊 You’ll be fine.

[@fbtippmann]

Somehow I didn't realize until now that a standalone check valve was a potential fix for one built into an in tank fuel pump. My dad's 2001 GMC Savana 1500 5.7L has been experiencing long crank times for quite some time. I already ordered a fuel pump, but we've been trying to schedule a time for a buddy with a lift to help out. Today it decided to stop starting altogether. I was able to install a Dorman check valve from the local Advance Auto Parts along with an extra fuel filter, hose, and clamps, then start the engine with starting fluid. We ran the engine for a couple minutes, then shut it off, and it was able to restart again right away without help. We shut it off, waited an hour, and it was again able to start right away without help. This gave us the flexibility to run the full tank of fuel down some and get it scheduled with the lift. Thank you!!

[@frankodom5200]

Have been concerned for a while about why my 2003 Trailblazer was slow to start and dreading the expense of dropping the fuel tank and replacing the fuel pump. Thanks for a clear and concise presentation.

[@arthurombela3390]

Smart guy. Your way of explaining things is excellent, straight to the point with clear details. I've learned a lot. Thanks for the video!

[@nicolelin8712]

Available items with common rail injectors. Whatsapp/tel: [phone] [e-mail] 0 445 120 391 0 445 120 309 0 445 120 255 0 445 120 238 0 445 120 212 0 445 120 123 0 445 120 122 0 445 120 066 0 445 120 310 0 445 120 215 0 445 120 231 0 445 120 059 0 445 120 238 0 445 120 255 0 445 120 122 0 445 120 121 0 445 120 289

[@jessemanson3722]

Hind sight is 20/20 my friend. When trouble shooting a vehicle it’s in ones best interest to start with the least invasive step first and proceed in succession until the problem is solved, you will regret skipping steps in the future, try not to assume either, it’s not a good look.

[@sassylexy1]

Got a car How do you jump start a car

[@Madison11990]

*

[@alexacunningham7315]

/ th hhbndkn jficj in tiny7h Frisco7 grilli brillo hoo iPhone video guy I pump

[@nstelte24]

This is hands down the best mechanical instructional video I've seen on toutube, THANK YOU!

[@timpye6162]

clearest and most comprehensive explanation on youtube for EFI diagnosis, devoid of any waffle. And the check-valve mod, smart quick and cheap. Thanks mate.

[@timhansonservices3374]

Best damn video ive ever watched on any subject ever. Its easy to see when the guy knows wtf he is talking about. Every second made sence. I learned more In last 10 min than in last 40 years on this subject. Thanks man.

[@errorcodeguy456]

👍

[@augustinegonzales9829]

@@errorcodeguy456 I have a 97 Chevy Silverado 1500 350 vortec and it cranks and only starts up for a second with engine starter and carb cleaner I checked the fuel pressure today and it's only reading 32 psi so is that my fuel pump?

[@Graoeye]

i just viewed this video randomly, because i wanted to clean my injectors. Indeed. I like his voice, the amount of info he gives and speaking pace, he would be an excellent teacher...

[@joelrunesu8139]

@@errorcodeguy456 is qkqi Up to ioiuuu I iuuul

[@startingQB]

10 seconds in I gave a thumbs up. Clear video, clean audio and concise instructions. After 3 days of searching for help I'm glad to have found this video.

[@AbdulKhan-vy8ix]

excellent explanations, no woffle, no BS, brief and to the point. Well done.

[@toro100005]

You just became my hero brother, thank you for making this video, its very well explained and i think you just fixed my problem i have a 97 chevy silverado z71 and it builds 62 pounds of pressure with the key on but it drops to 25 as soon as i turn the key off but It doesn't start just cranks

[@mannyradebe7768]

This video has helped me to finally understand why my car has a slow start. Thanks for you help

[@jomi9858]

Thanks man! I just realized how with a few minutes of patience anyone can save lots of money(and time btw) Great vid! You have my like.

[@jarriouscoleman1465]

Great Job bro, there aren't many youtubers that clearly explain things, they skip important pieces of information and always do montages leaving out important information. Keep up the good work.

[@alvidadost6955]

What a brilliantly done video, good sir! Such a clear and logical explanation of the diagnostic process is hard to come by.

[@MrMccurley]

Extremely useful demonstration. Fuel pressure diagnosis demystified. I have this exact starting problem when the engine has been sitting a few hours, now I know how to solve the mystery. One thought, there is a potential fourth source of a leak, the unions at the tank, fuel filter, between flex and hard lines along the plumbing, and between the rail(s) and individual injectors. Being an external leak, a visual inspection with system pressurized should find it. Hopefully before something catches fire...

[@jamesjw41]

Thank you! Very helpful and clearly explained. To the point, without extra unnecessary "filler".

[@davidofthemeadow]

This video is the best automotive instructional video I’ve ever watched. It was very systematic, but I think going straight to the bicycle pump first would have been a good idea.

[@hassanoukaddour9434]

Your have one of the best explained video on KZbin. I have watch hundreds of them and none is as good as yours! Now I can see why my car lose fuel pressure. Thanks for letting me know about fuel pressure👍

[@mullingsmark]

Wonderful knowledge

[@maar5725]

I do agree with You Hassan .

[@melizagreig5582]

Hassan Oukaddour l

[@rayrayhernandez1156]

Hassan Oukaddour mo

[@emmanuelodhiambo9744]

I concur Hassan, one of the best ever.

[@joeyjonson8637]

Exceptional video, the systematic and clear nature of it is glorious.

[@davidbrewer7937]

had to do this on my 2016 Tundra this week. There is no schrader valve to test pressure, I cobbled something together by teeing into the line, set a gauge in there, sure enough low pressure. Tested the regulator by removing it & using an air compressor to slowly raise the pressure up until it passes & regulates the pressure at 50psi. Now to prove the pump.... I made up a small un-vented fuel tank (pressure tank) using a length of 1-1/2" steel pipe & some fittings including a cap with a shrader valve installed into it. Filled the pipe up with a couple of pints of gas & pressurized the test "tank" using a pancake compressor on the seat next to me to supply the fuel rail at the engine at 45-50psi. Wahey! I could now drive the truck around... Diagnosis proved, just waiting for a new pump to arrive now. Dropping the tank with a hundred litres of gasin it was another job though, there was no way to siphon or drain it in situ!

[@Aninga32]

Thanks for the video. Hopefully I can get my 4-stroke snowmobile running smoothly after watching this. With all the electronics now installed into most snowmobile, it's like a regular car. With them injectors, regular motor oil change, and etc.

[@maryshan80]

Amazing repair, even more amazing trouble shooting training for the average person WITHOUT any special expensive tools.Kudos Man

[@Tex777_]

A+ Diagnosis videos. Very clear, very simple, and to the point.

[@reikhard]

This is one of the best test and diagnosis video i've ever seen! My car is taking to long to start and i was suspecting a problem in the fuel system! I hope i can fix it now. Thank you so much for sharing all of this!!!

[@andreotchere6456]

before I finish this video id like to say I appreciate the fact that you talk to me like im slow because my professor is under the impression that I am intelligent. Dont change thank you

[@salv434]

You're great at a lot of things sir. It's obvious that car diagnostics is one of them, but narrating, editing, problem solving and solutions. You name it. I'm very impressed and super thankful I saw this. I waiting 12 hrs for a tow last night.. 12!! Finally this morning a security guard patrolling the area was able to lend me his phone and i was able to call home and get us picked up. Ohh did i mention my 8 year was with me? Thanks Mercury. Anyhow, 2013 Ford Flex that I've been driving the hell out of lately is rapidly wearing down. I suspect an issue with the fuel pump/ lines etc. I know a good indication is that initial sound of "air" or "activation sound" you hear prior to the engine cranking as you turn the key to the ignition. I DO NOT HEAR THAT SOUND. I'm gonna use your video and rewind the hell out of it as many times as i need to, and hopefully im able to diagnose this isue. Normally I'd leave this for a professional but times are tough.. REALLY TOUGH and that's just not an option at the moment.. it simply isn't. So i greatly appreciate this video. A quick question, I'm sure there's a fuse behind that wiring for the fuel injectors. Could something as simple as a bad fuse be the issue?

[@qa7103]

If its a blown fuse, the car wont start at all.

[@peterford9369]

Very good and well made video. So basically, the only problem if you don't do what you did as the fix, is the slow to start. No actual physical damage or problem. Interesting indeed. Thanks so much.

[@77.88.]

Best description of fuel pressure loss areas I have ever seen or heard of ; Toyota has a bulletin out regarding 2002 Tacoma 2.7 L engine that has a fuel pump check valve problem which fits the description of the problem I am having with Tacoma. I told a few mechanics about the inline check valves I use to used many years ago and they don't understand me??? You are first class as I was a mechanic for most of my life dating back to the early sixties into the late 80's.

[@NeverforgetElvis]

Well done ECG. Talk about concise explanations. Every time i had a question you answered in the next comment!!! It was like i was having a conversation with you.

[@vanamalidas9880]

This is one of the best informative learning & diagnostic video I've seen so far. This fuel issue is the biggest problem with older GDI vehicles.

[@TerriBerri0616]

Man! Seeing vids like yours makes me excited to work on my car! There’s so much to explore in the car world! Thanks for a great, detailed, yet simplistic vid!

[@simonilett998]

Better off to buy a bicycle than waste time working on your car......can be fun for a little while but gets old quick.

[@paididoy]

@@simonilett998 , for a lazy person that's good!

[@rafapb3151]

Great explanation, easy and cheap testing techniques, step by step, dismissing each component of the fuel system, until get the correct diagnostic. The best is the solution you made. Keep working this way.

[@rickeveland5299]

Very useful video, saved me hours of toil and frustration. Ratchet and wrenches is my new go-to channel for vehicle DYI videos.

[@pemulungelit9050]

Thanks man.. finally i can saving many bucks with it.. thats totally amazing

[@CrystlizeWorld]

Wow! Thank you, very good explanations, thank you for being this detailed i don't have a loss of pressure but this guide helped me diagnose my own issue, due to your diagnostics!

[@c.geezer8753]

I avoided your vids for weeks only because you call yourself "error code" guy since I have a 1990 that doesn't give much in the realm of error codes. I'm sure glad I finally watched you. Based on having watched other vids with obtuseness and tangential wanderings in full display I believe you have a real talent in leading DIY'ers to solutions. Thank you.

[@faizulhasnain3902]

Thank you. This is valuable information for car owners who are typically fooled by mechanics in third world where trainings are rare.

[@shwemaungyoutuber2615]

it's very important, simple, nice and helpful test. Thank you your video.

[@docjody8624]

Beautifully executed video. Step-by-step, easy to understand. Amazing demonstrations, e.g., fuel injectors pulsing in-time. Wow. Great job.

[@B.C.wheeling]

Thanks so much! Can't count how many videos I watched before I found this easily explained and concise diagnoses

[@sparkysmalarkey]

I was intimidated by this problem, thank you for making this video. I now know my fuel pressure regulator is the problem, and the brand new fuel pump I bought will just be a life lesson.

[@carolinehartley7691]

Human Jo Exellent vid, worked on my friends Vauxhall Vectra Saved a pocketfull

[@simonilett998]

Your friend should sell the Vectra and save even more...lol

[@69bigsho]

Great video straight to the point and that's the same issue I'm having with my Dodge

[@MuhammadImran-yb5ei]

An excellent way of diagnosing and explaining, especially choosing the words for good communication.

[@goobernoodles]

Fantastic video. Systematic, logical, clear, with an ingenious, dead simple fix to boot. Thank you.

[@aleksanderkeca3110]

Great break down and very informative. I replaced my fuel pump the other day. My cars working great but the whole homemade check valve was brilliant. I wish I watched your video before 😂

[@jackjones9460]

GREAT Video! Good clearly explained information with no sidetracking. Explained mechanical theory to clarify why a problem could occur. Finally, No Annoying Distracting music or other noise to make following you difficult. I just found you today but liked and subscribed. I hope all your other videos are nearly this good. Oh, I also shared it on Facebook! Hope your channel stays active.

[@rafalkowalski5062]

I have the same problem with my 88 gta 305. FINALY THE BEST HELP VIDEO! Tomorow i will be fixing my car. Warm Greetings from Poland. Big thx.

[@Aesthetics622]

This gotta be the best “ fuel related” symptoms on KZbin well done man! Appreciate your time and effort to explaining them in detail.

[@SANTANA1deep]

Thank you so much. Helping me with my VR4 3000GT

[@alvinharris4022]

This is a VERY WELL DONE visual tutorial video on how to check for fuel pressure vacuum leaks in the fuel system. VERY HELPFUL! Thank You. 😊

[@stephengeiman3454]

Wow, I'm impressed as hell with this guy's video. This dude is very helpful and explains very clearly

[@THE-CROWZ06]

Nice 👍 explanation. My mechanic does the same thing building adapters on my 1994 v6 firebird, Now I can see new stuff on top of the engine that I’ve never seen before.

[@nasreddineberkouia1547]

Thanks to you nice explanation even the beginner can flow your advice without difficulty 👍👍👍

[@user-zr4vs9mc7c]

Very sharp and to the point, what a blessing you have provided to the masses,Thank you!

[@iam4TINT]

You are the best car stuff tutor I've seen on YT. This is my first time (stumbled in) on your channel and this video is wowmazing! Not surprised 1.9m are hooked on.

[@johncasor9698]

who would not like this video??? i believe it is a GREAT VIDEO...

[@dannygurney5130]

You, my friend, are one hell of a guy!! Keep up the great videos... I love that they you're so clear! :)

[@johnbarrels2813]

This was one of best explanation I'd ever seeing in you tube, I have a problem on my ford ranger, I would be checking the spots he just mentioned to be tested. Thank you

[@wrkAhaLik247]

Thanks for the education. Very easy to understand! Its smart to go thru the system completely before flushing money on any parts! I appreciate your common sense and reality fix! Save your money!

[@firoznanji1771]

Absolutely genius person, what a clear explanation... i am having trouble with Nissan Qashqai ( diesel ), but same principles apply... Will check out tomorrow, and see what happens. Thank you very much !! My salute to you......

[@KK-pw2dt]

Thats a great work around Adding check valve Never seen that before

[@sasteveneadams]

This was very mind blowing! Simple easy and detailed information made this a very easy and effective learning experience 👍🏽

[@edwinmkuzo3819]

Can anybody help me to get a check valve

[@sasteveneadams]

@@edwinmkuzo3819 do you mean finding it at parts store or on your vehicle?

[@ted6948]

Thank you! A very clear and methodical diagnosis of the problem. Good insight shared freely with fantastic advice.

[@mytube3687]

I had the same problem, I have to replace the fuel pump ,which real it cost me a lot . Thanks for a nice and cheap solution. Next time if it happen again I will try to fit the check valve.thanks for sharing.

[@Engineerboy100]

Awesome video, I'm stealing some of these test techniques, excellent :) Thanks for posting.

[@BoogieBoogsForever]

You explain things well. Thank you very much!!

[@GDFred88]

I sure wish I had found this video before I sold my F250 with a "bad fuel pump" before I sold it for almost nothing. I did not think I could drop the tank. But I could have installed this check point.... Darn! Good video.

[@cliffordedwards1388]

MR Error Code Guy you is a favourite teacher on KZbin I drive a supra I love automotive works I rely on you for guidance.

[@HomieHektor]

Good work thinking outside the box 📦 Keep it up Homie 😎

[@paulmartinez6725]

Superlative explanation and demonstration!!!👌🏽 Fantastic video skillz!👍🏽 What a great channel! Glad I found this!!!😁

[@jamesnicholasnicholas6761]

Properly the best mechanical video I have ever seen. The quality of info was super.

[@deeznuttz9947]

What an absolute amazing video 👏 have spent so long looking for a video where somebody explains it clearly and simply for a noob like myself to understand thanks man. Shout out from New Zealand 🇳🇿 , subscribed

[@genestewart5125]

Excellent video. I believe this is the problem with my 2003 GMC Sierra 1500. I replaced the fuel pressure regulator and crank position sensor as a shotgun approach at first. The issue is that after the the truck is turned off for more than a 1/2 hour or so, it takes a very long crank or multiple tries to get it fired back up. I found that if you prime the fuel by turning the key on a 2-3 times (not all the way to the firing position) and listen to the fuel pump pumping fuel to the engine, it gets the fuel needed to fire the next time yo turn the key to the ignition position. This works every time. So it makes sense that is probably a check valve issue. But i will check the pressure from the fuel tank and to the engine first to verify.

[@peterlindvall7671]

How did that work out?

[@studes4ever]

Man, this was one of the clearest and most informative DIY videos I've ever seen! 👍👍👍

[@workharddieproud]

I got the same comment, this has to be the best and most detailed repair video I’ve EVER seen !!!

[@khamtp42]

you are good and explain clearly, now I understanding how the fuel system working , love the video thank you...

[@theofficialdiamondlou2418]

You may have just solved a problem I’ve had for a year. 4 mechanics couldn’t find the problem. I have to cycle my fuel pump twice before starting. Because it’s loosing pressure. THANKYOU !!!!!!!

[@hazelpieterse853]

What was the problm

[@theofficialdiamondlou2418]

@@hazelpieterse853 well I’ve replaced everything so far except the fuel pump. Now it only happens after driving for an hr or more. And things get hot. Probably the fuel pump all along.

[@steverounsville3573]

This is obe of the BEST VIDIOES ive seen on utube thank you so much very helpful

[@florida199]

I love you man , thank you for sharing , helped me a lot . hopefully I will get my car fixed now . (not holding the fuel pressure , works ok when i bring the fuel up with the prime pump)

[@adamaldonado739]

I have that problem in my van in tomorrow morning I'll be doing all you show in this video. Thanks so much for this video

[@bobbailey3269]

Excellent video mine was one of the injectors you definitely saved me a lot of time thanks

[@errorcodeguy456]

👍

[@laneburgess1643]

This is a great video. What an awesome idea to add a check valve.

[@SuperWhizy]

Outstandingly thorough, concise, and ingenuous; albeit unorthodoxed but effective (the check-valve hack). The world is a slightly better place because of this video. Thank you.

[@rawfoodphilosophy7061]

absolutely epic video!!!!!! Blowing air into each segment and putting in your own check valve is phenomenal!!!!!!

[@ghostrider2664]

Bingo!!! I'll be damned. Your info is invaluable sir. You're saving lives, believe me. Saving lives, and quality of life. Thank you.

[@artanndoni7048]

Agree 100%

[@shaqattack3053]

You are definitely freaking Awesome!!! Thank you!

[@stuckinmygarage6220]

Thank you. Very good. 👍 We added a secondary fuel pump, external electric , using fuel rated check valves. Long desert hauls at night got caught with no pressure - once and never again. The cost of the tow... Cheers!

[@markmanning6773]

Finally, a comprehensive test. Thanks a million!

[@lumina_ss]

What a great trick of fixing that low pressure 👍

[@errorcodeguy456]

+msze1988 Glad you enjoyed the video. Dropping the gas tank when you don't have to is painful. If the pump itself was bad I would've had no choice.

[@oneuptoptv]

Error Code Guy what if the car is a 745li bmw is it built different or sameshit

[@fitziboyhillhill8143]

Brilliant idea...

[@pepin159]

It was so well explained that I immediately subscribed to your channel. Thank you!

[@ptaing8]

Me too!

[@handyman7297]

Me too

[@toomuchinformationforu9919]

best vid on you tube and I learnt more about diesel fuel system in 9.50 minutes than I have in 30 years

[@naula7]

ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT VIDEO! Best I have ever seen on this subject. Thank you!

[@normaasher7493]

thanks

[@derrickblake]

Great vid buddy

[@mariagarcia-eggly9833]

Wow! Fantastic step by step for dummies!!!! Like me! Thanks! You are my hero!

[@dazxr6367]

Best one I have seen too....although I am dealing with a deisel this has clarified the test procedure. Thanks.👍

[@shanemiller7910]

Petty clever I buddy ill give this an try the next time something like this happens again thanks greatly appreciated.