What might indicate that an injector is "leaking" fuel?

An injector that is "leaking" fuel can lead to various symptoms that indicate a problem with its operation. One of the key indicators is inconsistent engine idle, which occurs when the fuel delivery is not steady. Leaking fuel can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture entering the engine, causing it to idle erratically.

Additionally, leaking injectors can result in engine overheating. This is because unburned fuel can enter the combustion chamber, leading to incomplete combustion and increased temperatures. When the engine operates on an improper fuel mixture, it struggles to maintain optimal performance, which can lead to overheating.

Excessive fuel consumption is another clear sign of a leaking injector. A leak in the injector allows more fuel to enter the combustion chamber than necessary, which not only wastes fuel but also can indicate poor engine performance and potential damage over time.

Therefore, the presence of all these symptoms—inconsistent engine idle, engine overheating, and excessive fuel consumption—collectively supports the conclusion that the injector is leaking fuel. This underscores the importance of thorough examination and maintenance of fuel injectors in ensuring optimal engine performance.