Technically, you can drive with a bad fuel injector—but it’s not recommended and can lead to bigger problems if ignored.
Here’s what can happen if you continue driving:
- Engine misfires
- One or more cylinders may not receive fuel properly, causing uneven combustion.
- Poor fuel economy
- The engine may use more fuel to compensate for the imbalance.
- Rough idle and hesitation
- You might experience shaking at idle or lag during acceleration.
- Increased emissions
- Incomplete fuel burning can cause higher levels of pollutants.
- Potential engine damage
- Long-term driving with a misfiring injector can lead to piston or catalytic converter damage.
When is it okay to drive briefly?
- If you're heading straight to a repair shop
- If the vehicle still runs, but the check engine light is on and flashing intermittently (not solid or steady)
When should you stop driving immediately?
- Constant engine shaking
- Check engine light flashing constantly
- Fuel smell or visible leaks
In short: a short, direct trip to a mechanic might be okay, but prolonged driving with a bad fuel injector can cause serious—and expensive—damage. It’s best to diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible.