FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/Eighth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0171 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0171 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 engine too lean condition in Volkswagen Golf. 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 inspecting or working on it.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased engine performance
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual engine noises (e.g., hissing sounds from vacuum leaks)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0171 and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for any vacuum leaks, including hoses, gaskets, and the intake manifold.
  3. 3Check the fuel trim readings with a diagnostic tool to assess the short-term and long-term fuel trim values.
  4. 4Inspect the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for dirt or damage and test its operation.
  5. 5Measure the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge to ensure it meets specifications.
  6. 6Examine the fuel injectors for clogs or leaks, ensuring proper operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure safety.
  • Allow the engine to cool down before starting work.

2. Inspect and Repair Vacuum Leaks

  • Tools Required: Vacuum gauge, hose clamps, repair tape.
  • Steps:
    1. Use a vacuum gauge to check for leaks in the vacuum system.
    2. Inspect all vacuum hoses for cracks or disconnections.
    3. Replace any damaged hoses or use repair tape for minor leaks.
    4. Reconnect any disconnected hoses securely.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner, screwdriver.
  • Steps:
    1. Locate the MAF sensor in the air intake duct.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the sensor.
    3. Spray MAF sensor cleaner on the sensor element and let it dry completely.
    4. Reinstall the MAF sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Test Fuel Pressure

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge.
  • Steps:
    1. Connect the fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
    2. Turn the ignition on (do not start the engine) and check the pressure reading.
    3. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications.
    4. If pressure is low, inspect the fuel pump and fuel filter for issues.

5. Inspect and Clean Fuel Injectors

  • Tools Required: Fuel injector cleaning kit, socket set.
  • Steps:
    1. Remove the fuel injectors from the fuel rail.
    2. Use a fuel injector cleaning kit to clean the injectors thoroughly.
    3. Reinstall the injectors, ensuring proper sealing and connections.
    4. Reconnect the fuel rail and ensure there are no leaks.

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
  • Vacuum gauge
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Socket set
  • Fuel injector cleaning kit

Parts Required

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

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) feels sluggish, what could be causing it

    Learn how to diagnose and fix sluggish performance in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased acceleration and responsiveness
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) feel like it's losing traction

    Learn how to diagnose and fix traction loss issues in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repai...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Loss of grip during acceleration, especially on wet or slippery surfaces
    • •Warning light for traction control illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  3. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) is losing power during acceleration, what could...

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loss of power during acceleration in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and r...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling or hesitating during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  4. how to troubleshoot the ignition system in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix ignition system issues in your Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine misfires or runs rough
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) making a popping noise

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces
    • •Noise occurs during acceleration or deceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) has a hard starting issue when warm

    Learn how to diagnose and fix hard starting issues in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair inst...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks but does not start easily
    • •Longer cranking time than usual
    • +{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