Post by
Unnatural1 »
https://forums.nicoclub.com/unnatural1-u59065.html
Sat Oct 11, 2008 12:25 pm
P0171 - Bank 1 - Fuel system lean
Without a scan tool diagnosis is tough. Basically, the bank 1 O2 sensor is reading an excessive amount of oxygen in the exhaust and in turn the PCM is trying to add fuel to the mixture to bring it back to stoichiometric. When the PCM can no longer bring the mixture back into check it sets a code.
An MAF sensor is only one of MANY possibilities. Please don't run out and buy an MAF sensor with out having some testing done. The most common cause of this DTC, that I see, is vacuum leaks. Other causes are: a dirty fuel filter, bad fuel pump, bad injectors, misfires (spark plugs, coils, etc...) and the list goes on.
Since the P0171 code is the only code set currently, we can assume the problem is something that will only affect bank 1. That generally rules out many causes, such as most of the fuel system related causes except for maybe a bad injector.
As mentioned previously, I find vacuum leaks are the most common cause of this code. Leaks are easy to check for especially if you have a scan tool that can read OBD II Generic datastream info and a can of carb/intake cleaner. But first try cleaning the MAF sensor with a can of MAF sensor cleaner or electrical cleaner; found at most auto part stores.
Next, simply inspect the top of the engine for loose, missing, or otherwise damaged vacuum hoses. Also check for cracks in the intake tube between the MAF sensor and the throttle body. Listen for a hissing noise as the engine is running while inspecting under the hood. If you hear a LOUD hissing noise you can usually trace down the vacuum leak.
Beyond these checks, you need specialized equipment to continue diagnosis typically. If you happen to have access to a generic OBD II code reader that can read the PCM datastream you can monitor the "Bank 1 HO2S" while spray a can of carb/intake cleaner around the intake manifold and vacuum lines. Watch for the O2 sensors readings to spike to nearly 1.00 volts. Continue spraying that area to confirm the voltage continues to stay around 1.00 volts. Simply listening for changes in idle usually doesn't work because generally it won't change that much due to the PCM's previously mentioned adaptive fuel strategy.
These codes can be hard to trace down sometimes due to the number of possible causes. But if you have or have access to a scan tool and the knowledge to use it you can try the above.
Modified by Unnatural1 at 9:07 PM 10/12/2008