FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/how to fix P0171 code in BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

how to fix P0171 code in BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0171 code indicates a lean fuel mixture in the engine of a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019). This issue suggests that the air-fuel mixture has more air than fuel, which can l

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any repairs to prevent burns.

Symptoms

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

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for leaks, including hoses and the intake manifold.
  3. 3Check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for proper operation and cleanliness.
  4. 4Examine fuel delivery components, including fuel pressure and fuel injectors.
  5. 5Inspect vacuum lines for cracks or disconnections.
  6. 6Review the engine's fuel trim data on a scanner for further insight.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts needed for repair.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Ensure the engine is cool before starting work.

2. Inspect and Repair Intake System

  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdriver set, vacuum gauge
  • Remove the engine cover if applicable.
  • Inspect all air intake hoses and connections for visible cracks or damage.
  • If any leaks are found, replace the damaged hoses or clamps.
  • Reconnect all components securely.

3. Clean or Replace the MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF cleaner, Torx screwdriver
  • Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the MAF sensor.
  • Clean the sensor using MAF cleaner. Do not touch the sensor element.
  • If the sensor is damaged, replace it with a new one and reconnect.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, socket set
  • Locate the fuel rail and connect the fuel pressure gauge.
  • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start the engine) to check fuel pressure.
  • Compare the reading with the manufacturer's specifications; if low, check the fuel pump and filter for issues.
  • Inspect fuel injectors for clogs or leaks and clean or replace as necessary.

5. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Lines

  • Tools Required: Visual inspection tools
  • Inspect all vacuum lines for cracks or disconnections, focusing on those connected to the intake manifold.
  • Replace any damaged lines and ensure all connections are tight.

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

  • Remove the engine cover if applicable.
  • Inspect all air intake hoses and connections for visible cracks or damage.
  • If any leaks are found, replace the damaged hoses or clamps.
  • Reconnect all components securely.

Parts Required

  • Air intake hoses (if damaged)
  • Mass air flow (MAF) sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if necessary)
  • Fuel injectors (if clogged or damaged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix exhaust smoke issue in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle is experiencing exhaust smoke issues in a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), indicating potential problems with engine...

    Symptoms
    • •Blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration
    • •White smoke from the exhaust when the engine is cold
    • +{count} more
  2. how to troubleshoot transmission jerking in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle experiences transmission jerking during acceleration or shifting, indicating potential issues with the transmission s...

    Symptoms
    • •Jerking or harsh shifting during acceleration
    • •Delayed engagement or slipping of transmission
    • +{count} more
  3. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a grinding noise while driving

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle, a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), is experiencing a grinding noise while driving, indicating a potential issue wit...

    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise increases with vehicle speed
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) engine knock on acceleration

    ## Problem Statement The engine of a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) exhibits knocking or pinging noises during acceleration, indicating a potential ...

    Symptoms
    • •Engine knocking noise during acceleration
    • •Decrease in engine performance
    • +{count} more
  5. my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) has a loose gas cap warning light on

    ## Problem Statement The vehicle, a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), is displaying a loose gas cap warning light, indicating a potential issue with t...

    Symptoms
    • •Loose gas cap warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Fuel odor near the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix P0302 code in my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

    P0302

    ## Problem Statement The P0302 code indicates a misfire in cylinder 2 of a BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019), which can result in engine performance is...

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle at startup
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation