How To Test The Fuel Injectors (1992-1996 2.2L Toyota Camry)

TEST 2: Checking If The Fuel Injector Sprays Fuel

IMPORTANT: Take a look at this section before you start your fuel injector spray test: Important Precaution To Take When Installing A Fuel Injector.

If the "dead" cylinder's fuel injector passed TEST 1, then you've confirmed it doesn't have an internal electrical issue. However, it might still be clogged and either not spraying enough fuel or not spraying fuel at all.

The good news is that we can test if it's actually spraying fuel and, if so, whether it's atomizing it correctly.

To accomplish this test, we'll use a tool consisting of two key components:

• Fuel injector power module: Supplies power to the injector and pulses it for controlled activation.
• Plastic adapter: Connects the injector to a spray can of brake cleaner.

To set up the test, you'll first connect the fuel injector to the power module and then to the spray can (with the adapter). The next step is to use the power module to "pulse" injector, allowing brake cleaner to spray through it.

You're gonna see one of two results from the fuel injector:

1. Fine spray pattern: Indicates proper atomization (correct result).
2. Squirt-like or no spray at all: Indicates a clogged injector.

I've used this game-changing tool a few times, and honestly, I wish it had been around 30 years ago! You can see it and buy it here:

IMPORTANT: Keep in mind the following safety precautions when checking the fuel injector's spray pattern with brake cleaner:

• Work in a well-ventilated area:
  • Perform the test outdoors or in a space with good airflow.
  • Avoid confined or poorly ventilated spaces where vapors can build up.
• Keep away from open flames and heat sources:
  • Ensure there are no open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces nearby.
  • Don't smoke during the test.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE):
  • Safety goggles: Protect your eyes from spray or splashes.
  • Nitrile gloves: Prevent skin contact with the brake cleaner.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Control spray direction:
  • Aim the injector spray away from yourself and others.
  • Ensure there's nothing flammable in the spray path.

Important Precaution To Take When Installing A Fuel Injector

When removing a fuel injector for testing or replacement, there's one critical rule you should always follow: Never reinstall it using the same O-rings.

Here’s why: The O-rings on a fuel injector are designed to create an airtight and fuel-tight seal between the injector and the fuel rail. Once an injector is removed, the O-rings can —and often will— become stretched, pinched, or even slightly damaged, even if they look fine.

Reusing the old O-ring increases the risk of fuel leaks, and trust me, a pressurized fuel leak is no joke. To sum it simply: Fuel under pressure + a small spark = bad day for everyone involved.

So, whenever you remove an injector:

1. Replace its O-rings with new ones specifically made for your fuel injector or your specific vehicle's make, model and engine size.
2. Lubricate the new O-rings lightly with clean engine oil before reinstalling. This helps them seat properly and prevents pinching or tearing during installation.

This small step only takes just a few minutes, but it could save you from a massive headache —or worse, an engine fire. Trust me on this one: new O-rings are cheap; fire damage isn't.

More 2.2L Toyota Camry Test Tutorials

If this tutorial was helpful, be sure and take a look at all of the 2.2L Toyota Camry diagnostic tutorials in this index:

• 2.2L Toyota Camry Index of Articles.

Here's a sample of the tutorials you'll find there:

• How To Test The Alternator (1992-2001 2.2L Toyota Camry).
• How To Test The Thermostat (1992-2001 2.2L Toyota Camry).
• How To Test The Igniter (1992-1995 2.2L Toyota Camry).
• How To Test The Fuel Pump (1992-1995 2.2L Toyota Camry).
• How To Test For A Blown Head Gasket (1990-2001 2.2L Toyota Camry, Celica).