1999 Chevy Prizm, Fuel Injectors

by E. Johnson
(Baltimore, MD)

I have a 1999 Chevy Prizm. Lately every time I step on the gas it sputters. I was wonderings if it is the injectors. I have used injector cleaners but the problem is still there. Can it be the fuel filter? Help! Please, I am about to start a new job and I need this car running right.

Steve Says,

Thanks for asking me your car question.

There are many things that can cause the type of problem that you are having. That being said, I think you are on the right track. The fuel system could definitely be the problem (although there are a lot of other things as well).

Most fuel injector cleaner is worthless. It usually doesn't actually do any good. The only good way to clean them is to actually remove them and have them cleaned. Some auto shops have ultra sonic cleaners that do the best job. You can also find automotive businesses on the internet that will do it if you send them in.

This could be a clogged fuel filter. If it has been a while since it was replaced then you should probably just replace it. It might fix the problem, but even if it doesn't you weren't wasting money because it needed it anyway.

To truly tell if this is a fuel system problem you need to use a fuel pressure gauge. You can find them at any auto parts store. You just need to hook the gauge into the pressurized fuel line from the fuel pump and read the pressure with the car running. See if it is what the manufacturer says it should be. If not then you are looking at a fuel pump replacement probably.

Another easy thing that you could do yourself is to clean the MAF sensor. You can get MAF sensor cleaner at most auto parts stores and then just follow the instructions on the can. You basically just spray the cleaner on the sensor being very careful not to touch the sensor wire as it is very fragile.

Other things that might be causing this car problem are things like spark plugs (but not likely unless they are really old), o2 sensor, crankshaft sensor, plugged air filter, etc.

I hope this has helped. If you need more help just leave a comment with new information about the problem and I will try to help you more.