The OBD code P0171 for Chevrolet indicates a system too lean condition in Bank 1. It affects the fuel system.
Symptoms include the Check Engine Light ON and increased fuel consumption.
Causes may include a dirty air filter, faulty MAF sensor, intake/exhaust leaks, or fuel injector issues.
It’s a moderate issue that can affect engine performance.
A possible fix is to inspect and clean/replace components like the air filter, MAF sensor, and fuel injectors, and check for any leaks in the intake/exhaust system.
Repair Importance Level | 10.0 (Out of 10) |
Estimated Repair Time | Approximately 1.0 hour |
Repair Difficulty Level | 10.0 (Out of 10) |
Symptoms of the Chevrolet p0171 OBD Code
The vehicle may experience a lean condition due to a Chevrolet P0171 fault code.
- Symptoms: Engine Light ON.
- Rough idle.
- Hesitation or lack of power during acceleration.
- Excessive fuel consumption.
Causes of the Chevrolet p0171 OBD Code
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Possible reasons for Chevrolet fault code P0171 include vacuum leaks, faulty MAF sensor, or fuel delivery issues.
- P0171 can be caused by a Dirty or Restricted Air Filter.
- A Dirty or Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor.
- Intake Air Leaks.
- Exhaust Gas Leaks.
- Fuel Contamination.
- Faulty or Clogged Fuel Injectors.
- Faulty Front Heated Oxygen Sensor.
- Ignition Misfiring.
- Low Fuel Pressure.
- Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Hose Leaks.
- Engine Control Temperature (ECT) inaccurate readings.
Fixing Chevrolet Error Code p0171 Step By Step
Addressing a lean condition in the fuel system can resolve Chevrolet P0171 fault code.
- To fix Chevrolet OBDII code P0171, start by reviewing the possible causes mentioned above.
- Visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors for any damage.
- Inspect the connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
- Check for any vacuum leaks in the intake system.
- Clean or replace the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor if necessary.
- Inspect the fuel injectors for clogs or leaks.
- Check the fuel pressure to ensure it’s within specifications.
- Finally, reset the Engine Control Module (ECM) and perform a road test to verify the repair.
Cost Of Fixing Chevrolet p0171 Fault Code
The repair for Chevrolet P0171 may involve diagnosing and fixing issues with the fuel system.
The cost to diagnose and fix a Chevrolet OBD code P0171 is typically based on 1. 0 hour of labor, with rates ranging from $75 to $150 per hour.
The total cost will depend on shop rates, complexity of the issue, and any additional parts or services needed.
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Details of the Chevrolet p0171 OBD Code
Chevrolet P0171 indicates a lean condition in bank 1 of the engine.
Code P0171 for Chevrolet vehicles indicates a system too lean condition in bank 1. This means that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that there is too much air and too little fuel in the airfuel mixture being delivered to the engine cylinders on the bank 1 side of the engine.
This can be triggered by a variety of issues such as a vacuum leak, a faulty mass airflow sensor, a clogged fuel filter, a malfunctioning fuel pump, or a problem with the oxygen sensor.
The ECM monitors the oxygen sensor signal to determine the airfuel ratio, and when it detects a lean condition, it triggers the P0171 trouble code.
Mechanic’s Tech Notes
Detailed information on troubleshooting and repairing Chevrolet code P0171 related to a lean fuel condition.
To diagnose and fix OBDII code P0171 on a Chevrolet, start by checking for vacuum leaks, especially around the intake manifold and vacuum hoses.
Use a smoke machine or propane torch carefully to pinpoint leaks.
Next, inspect the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or debris that could affect its readings.
Clean or replace as needed.
Additionally, test the fuel pressure to ensure it meets specifications.
A failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter can trigger this code.
Finally, check the oxygen sensor operation and the exhaust system for leaks.
Addressing these areas should help resolve the lean condition indicated by P0171.
FAQ
Common causes of OBD code P0171 in a Chevrolet: Dirty air filter, faulty MAF sensor, intake/exhaust leaks, fuel contamination, clogged injectors, faulty O2 sensor, ignition misfire, low fuel pressure.
Diagnose P0171 in Chevrolet for Engine Light ON, Excessive Fuel Consumption. Check Air Filter, MAF Sensor, Intake/Exhaust Leaks, Fuel System, Oxygen Sensor, Ignition, PCV, ECT. Inspect wiring/connectors for damage.
It is not safe to continue driving with OBD code P0171 in a Chevrolet. Address the causes like air filter, MAF sensor, leaks, fuel issues promptly.

Wrap Up
If your Chevrolet triggers OBD code P0171 and you notice poor fuel economy, rough idling, or a lack of power, it may be caused by a vacuum leak, faulty oxygen sensor, dirty mass airflow sensor, or a clogged fuel filter.
To address Chevrolet OBD code P0171, inspect the air intake system for leaks, test the oxygen sensor’s performance, clean or replace the mass airflow sensor, and ensure the fuel filter is not restricted.
Check for any loose or damaged wiring connections in the system.