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: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01712-4 hours
3 min read
575 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 system too lean issue 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 battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before working on any components.

Symptoms

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

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0171 and check for any related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for vacuum leaks, including hoses and gaskets.
  3. 3Check the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for proper function and cleanliness.
  4. 4Verify fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to ensure the fuel pump is delivering the correct amount of fuel.
  5. 5Examine the fuel injectors for clogs or leaks.
  6. 6Inspect the engine's PCV system for proper operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and components.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Inspect and Repair Air Intake System

  • Tools Required: Screwdriver set, flashlight
  • Check for any visible cracks or loose connections in the air intake hoses.
  • Tighten or replace any loose or damaged hoses.
  • Inspect the intake manifold gasket for leaks; replace if necessary.

3. Clean or Replace MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner
  • Disconnect the MAF sensor electrical connector.
  • Remove the MAF sensor from the air intake duct.
  • Clean the sensor with MAF sensor cleaner, allowing it to dry completely.
  • Reinstall the MAF sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.

4. Test Fuel Pressure

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge
  • Locate the fuel rail and attach the fuel pressure gauge.
  • Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (without starting the engine) to check fuel pressure.
  • Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications. 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 (if necessary)
  • If injectors are suspected to be clogged, remove them from the fuel rail.
  • Clean the injectors using a fuel injector cleaning kit or replace them if cleaning is not effective.

6. Reassemble and Reset Codes

  • Reinstall any components removed during the inspection and repair process.
  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0171 code and any other stored codes.

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
  • Screwdriver set
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Fuel injector cleaning kit (if necessary)

Parts Required

  • Intake manifold gasket (if needed)
  • MAF sensor (if replacement is necessary)
  • Fuel injectors (if needed)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0171
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) loses power going uphill, what do I check

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loss of power when driving uphill in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures an...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Loss of acceleration when climbing inclines
    • •Engine stalling or hesitation during uphill driving
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the P0420 code on my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    P0420

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 exhaust system issue in Volkswagen Golf. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel economy
    • +{count} more
  3. how to address a misfire in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    P0300-P0304

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine misfire issues in Volkswagen Golf (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or engine shaking
    • +{count} more
  4. how do I troubleshoot my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) exhaust smoke issue

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix exhaust smoke issues in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedu...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Blue smoke from the exhaust, indicating burning oil
    • •White smoke from the exhaust, suggesting coolant leakage
    • +{count} more
  5. how do I fix the low oil pressure warning in my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix low oil pressure warning in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Oil pressure warning light on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) make a whining noise when I accelerate

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise during acceleration in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures an...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise increases with acceleration
    • •Noise is more pronounced during higher RPMs
    • +{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