Here are 5 signs that your fuel rail pressure sensor is failing (and how to replace it).

Fuel rails are responsible for fuel supply to fuel injectors.

The fuel pressure sensor ensures that your car’s engine cylinders receive the right amount of fuel at the right pressure. This sensor measures the pressure and transmits that information to the ECU.

The ECU determines the appropriate fuel supply level. Any malfunction of the fuel pressure sensor can interrupt the engine’s proper fuel flow and cause the engine’s performance to collapse.

Car sensors are vulnerable to being damaged by constant heat, dirt and dust. It is possible to easily damage the fuel rail sensor.

This article will discuss the symptoms of bad fuel pressure sensors, their location and function as well as the cost to replace them if they are damaged. First, let’s take a look at the signs to look for:

Bad Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Warning Signs

A bad fuel rail pressure sensor can cause difficulty in starting your vehicle. A bad fuel rail pressure sensor can also cause poor engine performance, or even stalling while you drive.

Below is a list that explains the most frequent symptoms associated with a low fuel rail pressure sensor.

1. It is difficult to start your car

The fuel rail provides the same fuel to the cylinders, as mentioned previously. Fuel rail pressure sensor is what ensures efficient fuel rail operation.

The fuel rail sensor can malfunction, sending incorrect information to ECU. This causes fuel supply interruptions and makes it take longer for your car to start.

2. Poor Engine Performance

The performance of your vehicle will suffer if it has a defective fuel rail pressure sensor. Your engine won't have enough fuel to allow you to accelerate.

The fuel pressure sensor may not be working properly, and it could also fail to provide enough information to the ECU. This may cause the ECU's fuel consumption to increase. As a result, you lose fuel and have to fill your car’s tank more frequently.

3. Make sure your engine light is on

This will be the most obvious symptom. This is a sign that your engine needs urgent attention.

The ECU triggers this light by detecting the fuel rail pressure sensor that is defective and reacts accordingly. You should call your mechanic if you see this light on your dashboard.

With an OBD2 scanner, you can read the codes as well.

4. Stalling Engine

Unexpected stalls can be caused by insufficient fuel supply. The engine may not restart no matter what. If this happens frequently, the fuel rail pressure sensor might not be working properly enough to send the correct information to the vehicle’s onboard computer.

Vehicles that are unable to adjust their ECU can develop unneeded problems.

5. Bad fuel consumption

You might also notice a change in your fuel consumption. It can either be higher fuel consumption or lower consumption than usual – which might sound like a good thing. This will be a problem for your engine in the long-term.

Locate the Fuel Pressure Sensor

The fuel rail pressure sensors are located in the fuel rail. They can be found near or below the intake manifold. Some car models allow the fuel rail pressure sensor to be mounted on the fuel line. However, this is rare.

Check somewhere under the intake manifold, and I’m sure that you will find the injectors, fuel rail, and the fuel rail pressure sensor.

Price of a Fuel Pressure Sensor Repair

Replacement costs for fuel rail pressure sensors range from $100 to $300 on average. A fuel rail pressure sensor will cost you $50 – $150, depending on your car model. The cost of labor will vary depending on which workshop you choose.

It is possible to save money by performing the work yourself. Most car models have an easy way to replace the fuel pressure sensor.

You will need to be careful with how you handle fuel.

Some car models also require you to reset the fuel pressure sensor, and then remove any error codes by using a diagnostic instrument.

FAQ: Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor