FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/G20/G21 (2019-2024)/how to fix the P0171 code on my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

how to fix the P0171 code on my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

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

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The P0171 code indicates a lean fuel mixture for the BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024), which typically suggests that the engine is receiving too much air or not enough fuel.

Error Code
P0171
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Poor acceleration or performance
  • •Decreased fuel economy
  • •Unusual engine noises (such as hissing)
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0171 code and check for additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for any visible leaks or cracks in hoses and connections.
  3. 3Check the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or contamination.
  4. 4Examine the fuel system, including fuel pressure and fuel filter condition.
  5. 5Inspect the vacuum lines for any leaks or disconnections.
  6. 6Test the engine coolant temperature sensor for correct operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety during repairs.

2. Inspect and Repair Air Intake System

  • Tools Required: Screwdrivers, pliers, flashlight
  • Visually inspect the air intake hoses and connections for cracks or loose fittings.
  • If any damage is found, replace the damaged hoses or tighten loose connections.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF cleaner, torx screwdriver
  • Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake system by unscrewing it.
  • Clean the MAF sensor with MAF cleaner and let it dry completely.
  • If the sensor is damaged or not functioning properly, replace it with a new one.

4. Check Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
  • Start the engine and check the fuel pressure. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for correct pressure values.
  • If the pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injectors for proper operation and replace any faulty components.

5. Inspect Vacuum Lines

  • Tools Required: Visual inspection tools
  • Check all vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
  • Replace any damaged vacuum lines to ensure proper vacuum levels.

6. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0171 code.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • MAF cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge

Parts Required

  • MAF sensor (if replacement is necessary)
  • Air intake hoses (if damaged)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix parking brake not releasing in BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

    ## Problem Statement The parking brake on a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) is not releasing, which may prevent the vehicle from being driven.

    Symptoms
    • •Parking brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty engaging or disengaging the parking brake
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) airbag light stay on after starting

    ## Problem Statement The airbag light on a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) remains illuminated after starting the vehicle, indicating a potential iss...

    Symptoms
    • •Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible beeping or warning chime when starting the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  3. how to diagnose power steering fluid leak in BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)

    ## Problem Statement The issue involves diagnosing a power steering fluid leak in a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 model (2019-2024), which can lead to steering...

    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel feels heavy or unresponsive
    • •Noticeable fluid spots under the vehicle
    • +{count} more
  4. how to reset the tire pressure light in my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024)?

    ## Problem Statement The tire pressure warning light is illuminated in a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024), indicating a potential issue with tire pres...

    Symptoms
    • •Tire pressure warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible fluctuating tire pressure readings in the display
    • +{count} more
  5. my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) is stalling while driving, what could be wrong?

    ## Problem Statement The 2019-2024 BMW 3 Series G20/G21 is experiencing stalling while driving, which can indicate issues with the fuel, ignition, or ...

    Symptoms
    • •Stalling or loss of engine power while driving
    • •Engine misfire or rough running before stalling
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) brake pedal go to the floor?

    ## Problem Statement The brake pedal on a BMW 3 Series G20/G21 (2019-2024) is going to the floor, indicating a potential brake system failure or fluid...

    Symptoms
    • •Brake pedal feels soft or spongy
    • •Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{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