Injection nozzle / injection valve: Function, fault symptoms and testing instructions

Compare the injected fuel quantity

Using a cylinder comparison measurement and simultaneous exhaust measurement, the injected fuel quantity can be compared based on the drop in speed and the HC and CO values for the individual cylinders. In the best case, the values will be identical for all cylinders. If there are major deviations between the values, it may be that not enough fuel is being injected (a large quantity of unburnt fuel = high HC and CO values, whereas little unburnt fuel = low HC and CO values). The cause may be a faulty injection valve.

Read off and compare the voltage and the pulse duration

The injection signal can be depicted using an oscilloscope. For this purpose, connect the measurement line to the signal line, and the other line to a suitable ground pin. With the engine running, it is possible to read off the voltage and the pulse duration (opening time) from the signal pattern. When opening the throttle valve, the pulse duration must increase during the acceleration phase, and with a constant engine speed (around 3000 RPM) it must fall back to, or just below, the idle value. The results of individual cylinders can be compared with each other, and this may provide an indication of potential faults, e.g. a poor voltage supply.

Measure the fuel pressure and check the intake and exhaust systems for leaks

Other important tests are measuring the fuel pressure, in order to identify other components that may be faulty (fuel pump, fuel filter, pressure regulator), and checking the intake and exhaust systems for leaks, to prevent false measurement results. If the sensor has a 2-pin connector, it is most likely to be an inductive sensor. In this case, the internal resistance, a potential short circuit to frame, and the signal can be determined.

To do this, remove the plug connection and check the internal resistance of the sensor. If the internal resistance value is 200 to 1,000 ohms (depending on the reference value), the sensor is OK. If the value is 0 ohms, there is a short circuit, and in the case of M Ohm there is a break. The test for a short circuit to frame is carried out using the ohmmeter from a connection pin to vehicle ground. The resistance value must tend toward infinity. The test using an oscilloscope must result in a sinus signal of sufficient strength. In the case of a Hall generator, only the signal voltage in the form of a square wave signal and the supply voltage are to be tested. This must result in a square wave signal depending on the engine speed. We should repeat at this point that the use of an ohmmeter can destroy the Hall generator.

Check the continuity of the cable connection

Check the continuity of the cable connection between the injection valves and the control unit (the circuit diagram for the pin assignment is required). In order to conduct this measurement, pull out the control unit connector and check the individual cables of the injection valve connectors to the control unit. Reference value: Approx. 0 ohms.

Check the cable connection for a short circuit to frame

Check for a short circuit to frame in the cable connection between the injection valves and the control unit. With the control unit connector pulled out, measure the cables from the injection valve connectors to the control unit against vehicle ground.

Check the continuity of the injection valve coils

Check the continuity of the injection valve coils. To do so, connect the ohmmeter between the two connection pins. Reference value: Approx. 15 ohms (note manufacturer specifications).

Check the injection valve coils for a short circuit to frame

Check the injection valve coils for a short circuit to frame. For this purpose, check the continuity of each individual connection pin against the valve housing. Reference value: >30 MOhm.