A Guide to Replacing Fuel Injectors on the 2019-2022 Honda Insight
Experiencing rough idling or poor fuel economy in your Honda Insight? Your fuel injectors might be the cause.
- First, check for the critical fuel pump recall on 2019-2020 models, as symptoms overlap with injector failure.
- A single bad injector can cause rough idle, poor MPG, and stalling.
- OEM injectors offer the best reliability, while aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition provide a lower-cost option with potentially variable quality.
- Professional replacement costs range from approximately $465 to $672 using an OEM part.
Is Your Insight's Engine Acting Up?
A faulty fuel injector can cause noticeable problems with your car's performance. Because the fuel delivery is so precise, even one poorly performing injector can throw off the engine's balance. You might notice the engine running rough, especially when idling. Other common signs include a drop in your usually high MPG, hesitation when you accelerate, or a check engine light appearing on your dashboard.
IMPORTANT: Check for Fuel Pump Recalls First!
Before you diagnose or replace your fuel injectors for symptoms like engine stalling, hesitation, or a failure to start, you must check if your vehicle is affected by a major safety recall. Honda has issued recalls for the fuel pump motor in many 2019-2020 Insight models. A failing fuel pump can cause the engine to stall while driving, which is a significant safety risk. These symptoms are very similar to a bad fuel injector. You can check if your vehicle has an open recall by entering your VIN on the NHTSA website or contacting a Honda dealer. 🎬 Watch this owner's experience getting the fuel pump recall service. A common trouble code associated with the fuel pump issue is P0087 (Fuel Rail Pressure Too Low).
🎬 See how to diagnose and fix a P0087 trouble code.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Injector
When it's time to replace an injector, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) from Honda and aftermarket parts from other brands. While injector failure is not a widespread common problem on the Insight, it can happen.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is the part your car was built with. A genuine Honda injector (part number 16450-5WJ-A01) offers guaranteed fit, performance, and the highest reliability. It is the benchmark for quality.
- New Aftermarket (Standard Ignition): Aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition offer a more affordable alternative to OEM parts. Standard promotes its injectors as being designed to match OE performance in fuel flow and spray pattern. However, real-world reviews for aftermarket injectors can be mixed, with some users reporting success and others experiencing issues. An aftermarket part can provide good value, but it may not have the same level of quality control as an OEM part.
How Much Does a Fuel Injector Replacement Cost on a 2019-2022 Honda Insight?
The total cost depends on the parts you choose and who does the work. Shops typically recommend replacing only the failed injector, but some owners prefer to replace them as a set if the vehicle has high mileage. The table below shows estimated costs for replacing a single injector.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Shop Labor | $220 - $322 |
| New OEM Honda Injector (1) | $245 - $350 |
| New Aftermarket Injector (1) | $218 - $310 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $438 - $632 |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM Part) | $465 - $672 |
Pro Tip: Since the labor to access the injectors is a large part of the cost, consider replacing all four injectors at once if your car has over 100,000 miles. This can prevent future failures and save you from paying for the same labor again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one fuel injector?
Yes, it is common practice to replace only the injector that has failed. However, if your vehicle has high mileage, the other injectors may not be far behind. Replacing all four at once is preventative maintenance that can save on future labor costs.
Is it hard to replace a Honda Insight fuel injector?
For a DIYer with some experience, it is a moderately difficult job. It requires relieving the fuel system pressure safely and removing some engine components to access the fuel rail. If you are not comfortable working with the fuel system, it is best to leave this job to a professional mechanic.
🎬 Watch a walkthrough of the injector replacement on this engine.Can I just clean my fuel injectors?
While fuel injector cleaning additives you pour in the gas tank can help with minor deposit buildup as a preventative measure, they cannot fix a failed injector. Professional off-car ultrasonic cleaning can sometimes restore a clogged injector, but it cannot repair an electrical fault within the injector. Often, replacement is the most reliable solution.
Will a bad fuel injector always cause a Check Engine Light?
Not always. A partially clogged or slowly failing injector might cause performance issues like a rough idle or poor MPG before it's bad enough to trigger a specific trouble code and illuminate the Check Engine Light.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 16450-5WJ-A01
Fits the 1.5L 4-Cylinder Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine used in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 Honda Insight models. This is a port-style fuel injector.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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