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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/how to resolve P0171 and P0174 codes on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)?

how to resolve P0171 and P0174 codes on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)?

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
556 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The vehicle is exhibiting trouble codes P0171 and P0174, indicating a lean fuel condition in both the bank 1 and bank 2 systems on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012).

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening engine components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine power or acceleration
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual engine noise

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system to confirm P0171 and P0174 codes are present.
  2. 2Inspect the engine air intake system for any vacuum leaks, including hoses and gaskets.
  3. 3Check the mass airflow sensor (MAF) for proper operation and contamination.
  4. 4Examine the fuel delivery system, including fuel pressure and fuel filter condition.
  5. 5Inspect the oxygen sensors for proper functionality and response times.
  6. 6Evaluate the engine's fuel trim readings using a scan tool to assess long-term and short-term trims.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for repair.
  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety.
  • Allow the engine to cool down before starting work.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Use a smoke machine to detect leaks if necessary.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or gaskets with OEM parts.

Tools Required:

  • Smoke machine (optional)
  • Pliers

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the MAF sensor from the duct.
    3. Clean the MAF sensor with MAF cleaner spray or replace it if necessary.
    4. Reinstall the MAF sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

Tools Required:

  • MAF cleaner spray
  • Screwdriver set

4. Check Fuel System

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Use a fuel pressure gauge to check the fuel pressure at the fuel rail.
    2. If the pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and filter for issues.
    3. Replace the fuel filter if it is clogged or replace the fuel pump if it’s not delivering proper pressure.

Tools Required:

  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Wrench set

5. Inspect and Test Oxygen Sensors

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate both upstream and downstream oxygen sensors.
    2. Disconnect the sensors and use a multimeter to check their resistance and functionality.
    3. Replace any faulty oxygen sensors with OEM parts.

Tools Required:

  • Multimeter
  • Oxygen sensor socket

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Smoke machine (optional)
  • Pliers

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Oxygen sensors (if defective)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

2 items

Parts

4 items

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