The injection engine is designed for high-grade gasoline, which is not often found at our gas stations. In addition, different injection systems have their own specific features, which must be taken into account when operating the machine. And there are many such systems on our market: with mechanical injection "TO (KE) -Jetronic", electromechanical "L-Jetronic" and electronic: "Motronic", "Lucas", "Marelli".
Many systems have two modes of operation: main and emergency: when one of the sensors fails. The driver may not notice such a problem: there is no alarm on the dashboard, and the engine continues to work (but not optimal). This often happens in "Audi-80" with central injection. About a third of motorists who have such cars do not even realize that they are driving in emergency mode. And this leads to increased fuel consumption, reduced power, uneven engine operation and difficult starting. A malfunction is detected only during the next maintenance. Therefore, on "weak" places of each system that manifest themselves in our conditions, it is worth dwelling in more detail.
Systems with mechanical injection. They are more subject to wear and tear than others. The fuel pressure regulator usually fails after 80-120 thousand kilometers (engine starts noticeably worse), injectors: after 60-80 thousand (uneven engine operation, increased fuel consumption). Injector failure is especially insidious because it is not immediately noticeable. Special equipment is required for diagnostics and repair.
A sore point of electromechanical injection systems: air leaks through numerous vacuum hoses, tending to crack after 4–5 years of service. Particularly on BMWs and, to a lesser extent, on "Audi". It is quite difficult to detect such a defect.
Electronic systems have their own problems. For example, "sat down" battery, and out of old habit you decided "light a cigarette" from another car. As a result, the electronic unit fails. And the use of leaded gasoline, in turn, will render the lambda probe and catalyst unusable.
In general, both mechanical and electronic injection systems have their pros and cons. Mechanical ones often fail fuel pumps and dispensers. Electronic fuel pumps are more durable and cheaper, but any computer malfunction will be expensive. In addition, we, alas, have more reasons for the failure of any system than in Western Europe or America: low-quality gasoline, dirt on the roads and chemicals that are sprinkled on them. Therefore, it is worth listening to the recommendations of experts. Try to use imported gasoline, if possible; to remove moisture from the fuel lines, pour a special preparation into the tank at each refueling; every 10-15 thousand kilometers, do a complete flush of the injection system.
Another feature: any failure fixes the computer. And even after replacing a faulty part, it will issue incorrect commands: until the failure "erase" at a special stand.