FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ram/1500/DT (2019-Present)/how to fix P0171 code in Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

how to fix P0171 code in Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes
Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
566 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 P0171 engine too lean condition in Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0171
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before starting repairs.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine performance or power loss
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Engine misfires

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle’s OBD-II system for error codes and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for any vacuum leaks or damaged hoses.
  3. 3Check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure proper fuel delivery.
  4. 4Inspect and clean the mass air flow (MAF) sensor; check for contamination or damage.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for clogs or malfunctions.
  6. 6Verify the operation of the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
  • Allow the vehicle to cool down if the engine has been running.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Sub-steps:

    1. Visually inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or disconnections.
    2. Use a smoke machine or carburetor cleaner to identify leaks by spraying around suspected areas.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or reattach loose connections.
  • Tools Required: Smoke machine or carburetor cleaner, basic hand tools.

3. Test and Clean MAF Sensor

  • Sub-steps:

    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the sensor.
    3. Use MAF sensor cleaner to spray and clean the sensor element gently.
    4. Reinstall the sensor, ensuring a secure fit and reconnect the electrical connector.
  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner, screwdrivers.

4. Check Fuel Pressure

  • Sub-steps:

    1. Locate the fuel rail and find the fuel pressure test port.
    2. Attach the fuel pressure gauge to the test port.
    3. Turn the ignition key to the "On" position (do not start the engine) and read the fuel pressure.
    4. Compare the reading against the manufacturer's specifications; if low, inspect the fuel pump and filter.
  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge.

5. Inspect Fuel Injectors

  • Sub-steps:

    1. Disconnect the fuel injector connectors and remove the injectors from the intake manifold.
    2. Inspect for carbon buildup or clogs; clean or replace injectors as necessary.
    3. Reinstall the fuel injectors and reconnect wiring harness.
  • Tools Required: Basic hand tools, injector cleaner.

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
  • Smoke machine or carburetor cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Basic hand tools

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Fuel injectors (if malfunctioning)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

  1. how to troubleshoot Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) power steering issues

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix power steering issues in Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair instructions.

    Steering5 symptoms
  2. my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) makes a whining noise when in gear, what's wrong?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise in gear for 2019 Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Transmission5 symptoms
  3. why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) have a persistent oil leak

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a persistent oil leak in your 2019-Present Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Engine6 symptoms
  4. how to fix the brakes on my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) that go to the floor

    Learn how to fix the brake pedal sinking issue in 2019-Present Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

    Brakes5 symptoms
  5. why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) battery die after a few days

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery drain issues in 2019 Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms
  6. why is my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) transmission fluid brown

    Learn why your 2019 Ram 1500 DT has brown transmission fluid and how to fix it. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

    Transmission5 symptoms

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