FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Fifth Generation (2011-2019)/how to fix P0174 code in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

how to fix P0174 code in Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01742-4 hours
4 min read
623 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0174 engine too lean condition in Ford Explorer 2011-2019. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0174
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before removing components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Increased fuel consumption
  • •Engine hesitation during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system to confirm the P0174 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for leaks, including the intake manifold gasket and vacuum hoses.
  3. 3Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it is within specifications.
  4. 4Inspect the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or damage and clean or replace as necessary.
  5. 5Examine the throttle body for carbon buildup and clean if needed.
  6. 6Verify the operation of the fuel injectors using a multimeter to check for proper resistance.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

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

2. Inspect and Repair Intake Leaks

  • Tools Required: Socket set, vacuum gauge
  • Inspect all hoses connected to the intake manifold for cracks or disconnections.
  • Use a vacuum gauge to check for leaks that may not be visible.
  • Replace any damaged hoses or gaskets identified during the inspection.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner
  • Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake system.
  • Spray the MAF sensor with the specialized cleaner and allow it to dry completely.
  • Reinstall the MAF sensor, ensuring it is securely fastened.

4. Check and Clean Throttle Body

  • Tools Required: Throttle body cleaner, soft cloth
  • Remove the throttle body assembly from the intake.
  • Use throttle body cleaner to clean the interior surfaces and the throttle plate.
  • Reinstall the throttle body, ensuring all gaskets are in good condition.

5. Test Fuel Pressure

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
  • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start) and check the pressure reading.
  • If the pressure is outside the manufacturer's specifications, check the fuel pump and filter.

6. Inspect and Test Fuel Injectors

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, fuel injector cleaner
  • Use a multimeter to check the resistance of each fuel injector; it should match manufacturer specifications.
  • If an injector is faulty, replace it.
  • Optionally, use a fuel injector cleaning kit to clean them if they are clogged.

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
  • Socket set
  • Vacuum gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Throttle body cleaner
  • Multimeter
  • Fuel pressure gauge

Parts Required

  • Intake manifold gasket (if applicable)
  • Vacuum hoses (if worn or damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if cleaning does not resolve the issue)
  • Fuel filter (if fuel pressure is low)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0174
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

7 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why is my Ford Explorer making a clicking noise when I start it

    Learn how to diagnose and fix clicking noise during startup in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Clicking noise when turning the ignition key
    • •Engine fails to crank or starts very slowly
    • +{count} more
  2. why is my Ford Explorer making a grinding noise when I brake

    Learn how to diagnose and fix grinding noise when braking in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise when applying brakes
    • •Reduced braking effectiveness
    • +{count} more
  3. my Ford Explorer makes a whining noise when turning what's causing it

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise when turning in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise during left or right turns
    • •Increased steering effort
    • +{count} more
  4. my Ford Explorer ABS light is on what does it mean

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue in your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Ford Explorer making a clicking noise when I turn the key?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the clicking noise when starting your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Clicking noise from the starter area when the key is turned
    • •Dashboard lights dim or flicker during the clicking sound
    • +{count} more
  6. my Ford Explorer makes a loud popping noise when I turn what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loud popping noise when turning in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Loud popping noise when turning
    • •Clunking sound over bumps
    • +{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