Springfield XD Failure to Eject? Causes, Fixes, and the Parts That Actually Solve It
A failure to eject (FTE) is one of the most frustrating malfunctions a Springfield XD owner can experience. Whether it shows up as stovepipes, spent casings caught in the ejection port, or erratic ejection patterns, the cause is usually simple, mechanical, and fixable.
The key is knowing which part is actually responsible — and replacing parts in the correct order instead of guessing. This guide breaks down the most common causes of XD ejection problems and the parts that actually restore reliability.
What a Failure to Eject Really Means on a Springfield XD
On the Springfield XD platform, proper ejection relies on three systems working together:
- The extractor holding the case rim
- The ejector striking the casing as the slide moves rearward
- The recoil spring assembly controlling slide speed and timing
When any one of these components is worn or out of spec, the pistol may still fire, but it won’t eject consistently.
1. Worn Recoil Spring Assembly (The #1 Cause of XD FTEs)
The recoil spring assembly is the most common cause of failure to eject issues on Springfield XD pistols. As the spring weakens over time, slide velocity becomes inconsistent and ejection timing suffers.
- Slide velocity increases or becomes erratic
- Extractor contact with the casing becomes unstable
- Ejector strikes lose consistency
This often results in stovepipes, weak ejection, or spent cases trapped by the slide.
When This Happens
- Typically after 3,000–5,000 rounds
- Sooner when shooting hotter or +P ammunition
The Fix
Replacing the recoil spring assembly restores proper slide timing and is frequently all that’s needed to eliminate failure-to-eject issues.
Springfield XD Recoil Spring Assemblies
2. Weak or Worn One-Piece XD Extractor
Springfield XD pistols use a one-piece extractor with built-in tension. Over time, extractor tension can weaken due to round count, metal fatigue, or carbon buildup that restricts movement.
Common Symptoms
- Spent casing partially extracted
- Brass falling straight down instead of ejecting outward
- Inconsistent ejection direction
The Fix
Replacing the extractor restores proper rim engagement and consistent ejection. Cleaning may help temporarily, but worn tension does not return.
3. Dirty or Worn Ejector
The ejector is a fixed component that strikes the casing during rearward slide travel. Carbon buildup, wear, or slight bending can all affect ejection performance.
Symptoms of an Ejector Issue
- Weak or sideways ejection
- Brass striking the shooter
- Random stovepipes after other parts have been replaced
The Fix
- Thoroughly clean the ejector first
- Replace it if visible wear or damage is present
The Correct Fix Order (Saves Time and Money)
- Recoil spring assembly
- Extractor
- Ejector
Replacing parts in this order resolves the majority of Springfield XD failure-to-eject issues without replacing good components unnecessarily.
Final Thoughts
A Springfield XD that fails to eject is rarely broken — it’s usually worn. With proper maintenance and quality replacement parts, the XD platform remains extremely reliable.