FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/Eighth Generation (2020-present)/how to fix P0174 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

how to fix P0174 code in Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01742-4 hours
4 min read
634 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 lean condition in Volkswagen Golf. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0174
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening any components to avoid burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle
  • •Decreased engine performance
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Engine stalling during acceleration
  • •Increased emissions

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0174 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the air intake system for leaks, including the intake manifold, vacuum hoses, and air filter.
  3. 3Check the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor for proper operation and cleanliness.
  4. 4Inspect fuel system components, including fuel pressure, fuel pump operation, and fuel injectors for blockages.
  5. 5Test the oxygen sensors for proper functionality and response times.
  6. 6Verify the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor readings to ensure they are within specifications.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Inspect and Repair Intake System

  • Tools Required: Screwdriver set, vacuum gauge, flashlight.
  • Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or disconnections. Replace any damaged hoses.
  • Check the intake manifold for leaks using a vacuum gauge; if a leak is present, reseal or replace the intake manifold gasket.

3. Clean MAF Sensor

  • Tools Required: MAF sensor cleaner (or electrical contact cleaner), soft cloth.
  • Carefully remove the MAF sensor from the air intake duct.
  • Spray MAF sensor cleaner onto the sensing elements and allow to dry completely before reinstallation.

4. Check and Repair Fuel System

  • Tools Required: Fuel pressure gauge, fuel line disconnect tool.
  • Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail and check for proper fuel pressure as per manufacturer specifications.
  • If pressure is low, inspect and possibly replace the fuel pump or fuel filter.
  • Check fuel injectors for proper operation and clean them if necessary.

5. Replace Oxygen Sensors (if needed)

  • Tools Required: Oxygen sensor socket, torque wrench.
  • Identify the oxygen sensor related to bank 2. Remove the sensor using the oxygen sensor socket.
  • Install the new oxygen sensor, tightening it to the manufacturer's specified torque.

6. Reconnect Battery and Test

  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to ensure all systems are operational.
  • Clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to verify that the check engine light does not reappear.

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
  • Vacuum gauge
  • MAF sensor cleaner
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Oxygen sensor socket
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • Vacuum hoses (if damaged)
  • MAF sensor (if faulty)
  • Fuel filter (if clogged)
  • Fuel pump (if defective)
  • Oxygen sensor (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0174
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

7 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) has a strong fuel smell what's going on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a strong fuel smell in your Volkswagen Golf 8th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ins...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Strong gasoline odor, especially near the engine or fuel tank
    • •Fuel leakage visible under the vehicle or around the engine compartment
    • +{count} more
  2. how to resolve P0301 misfire code on my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present)

    P0301

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0301 cylinder 1 misfire in Volkswagen Golf. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or engine shaking
    • +{count} more
  3. Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) AC not blowing cold air how to fix

    Learn how to diagnose and fix AC not blowing cold air in Volkswagen Golf. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •Cabin air is warm or hot despite AC being set to cold
    • •AC compressor does not engage
    • +{count} more
  4. 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
  5. why does my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) make a knocking noise

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

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Knocking noise audible during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise increases with vehicle speed
    • +{count} more
  6. how do I fix my Volkswagen Golf Eighth Generation (2020-present) that stalls at stop signs

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

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalls when idling or coming to a stop
    • •Rough idling prior to stalling
    • +{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